When Abstract James and I landed in Anchorage we were greeted by Karen Lieberman (formerly of Broad Ripple) and her boyfriend Matthew. We shared much joy as we waited for our luggage on that mysterious contraption which introduces it like a dry car wash then parades it around on a conveyor belt for the anxiously weary flight passengers. My bag was simple to pick out. A big black bag with purple trim, this thing is held together by purple box tape. I was kinda impressed that it did not come apart. When James' luggage came out, Bill Emmert (formerly of BR) was waiting for us just outside in the truck.

We knew exactly where we were headed. For months Bill told us he would take us to a beautiful high spot to see the Sun briefly set. On the outskirts of Anchorage, we rode up a hill that was scattered with large houses. Soon into the truck climb Bill said, "Hey, there's a moose!" (My pulse quickened. The only moose I saw last year was trying to cross the highway). Sure enough, a magnificent moose was sauntering casually up the right side of the road.

Bill eased up to the left of the moose. I was riding shotgun and soon the moose was close enough to touch (though I didn't!). I was fearful and awestruck by the size of this animal I spent so much time thinking about since I first dreamed of Alaska.

We saw seven moose on the way up and down the hill to and from an unearthly sunset. Three or four of those moose were very close. Never would I have imagined that moose would co-exist in the same hill neighborhood with people.

I will speak for Abstract James by saying that our first day in Alaska was a good one.