Sharing Over 35 Years of Alaska

We moved to Alaska in 1983 and settled in Cold Bay. I had always dreamed of Alaska—those dreams lived in my heart and mind, fueled by Jack London, Robert Service, and countless television shows and movies I watched as a kid. Linda was unsure at first, but it offered a paycheck and the start of a career.

After completing my military duty, I took advantage of the old GI Bill and attended Oregon State University. Linda managed the household and cared for the kids while I focused on my studies. When I finished, we were flat broke. Knowing nothing about the Alaskan Bush, I applied to the National Weather Service in Alaska and received the one and only job offer after college. We seized that opportunity and have never looked back.

We have lived in Cold Bay, Kodiak, Anchorage, Palmer, Fairbanks, Susitna Landing, and Wasilla. Along the way, we raised two fine sons—both straight and true. The adventures we shared are what the dreams of my youth were made of. There was plenty of opportunity working for the premier meteorological agency in the world. Linda was more than just a pretty face; she also worked retail at her beloved Lamont’s in Wasilla. Our family lived an Alaskan life defined by freedom and opportunity.

Of course, Linda carried much of the heavy responsibility of raising our sons. My role often took me and the boys into the bush, where we bonded and where they learned what was expected of them as they grew straight and tall. We talked about both great things and small things, and we each learned the importance of depending on one another. As a father, there was always more work to be done with our boys, and the many friends I brought along helped in that effort. It wasn’t all play.

My Alaska dream has been realized in a big way. Despite my setbacks, I have been blessed and privileged to lead the life I have had. Supported by my wife and encouraged by family and friends, this is my opportunity to pay it forward—a lifelong pursuit of mine.

We have lived these experiences in Alaska, and it is why you’ll want to visit our website, L2KAlaska.com, or read my Substack, LeeKelley.substack.com, from time to time. I do most of the photography and writing, while Linda handles the editing.

Linda and I look forward to sharing our adventures, wildlife photography, art, writings, and more from over 35 years in Alaska.