How do you explain to a gangster cat that we have a bucket list and Alaska is top on the list and that's where we're going next.
"Bucket list?" he asks, looking at us askance.
We try to explain. "You have things you want to do--hang out with the squirrels and birds and eat snacks. These are top priority to you."
"Alaska?"
I try to narrow down. Well, we're landing in Anchorage and then taking a shuttle to Fairbanks. That's as far as I go . . . for now.
I'm hoping our first view of Anchorage will convince him. It's Alaska's largest city and is called the gateway to the Alaskan wilderness. Forty percent of Alaska's population live in Anchorage. It's one of the northernmost American cities.
Alaska holds a special charm. It's more rugged, colder in winter. The lifestyle is different. Then I hit upon a winning argument. Animals. "We're going to see tons of animals. Bears and dogs and bison and moose and all kinds of sea life--whales and seals."
Theo likes animals. All animals. Unfortunately, however, the first thing we can offer is a beautiful view. Of the mountains and the clouds.
Flying into Anchorage. As the sun is setting.
We're still flying above the clouds.
Theo is less impressed than he should be. "Where are the animals?" he wants to know.
"How about a snack? You must be starving."
Snacks work. Temporarily. He glances up at the view and shakes his head.
"I'm glad you're such a good sport." What I don't tell him is that it'll be days before we see an animal. A live one, that is and not some prehistoric bones! Stay tuned!
