Back from Chirikof

Camp 3 and lupin from our recent trip to Chirikof Island

It's hard to believe but we are back from our archaeological project on Chirikof Island.  During our last 24 hours on the island it rained so hard I thought we'd see all the animals lining up two by two on the beach to board an ark.  Our teepee had a pond in it.  We just barely beat the fog on departure.  And now we are in Kodiak and it is sunny and warm with not a cloud in the sky.  There are lots of people and cars - even a Safeway where you can buy food.  We came from a remote uninhabited island and have arrived at the urban metropolis of Kodiak City - severe culture shock.

Above is a photo of our third camp on the island.  We only had 2 1/2 sunny days.  The island is severely overgrazed by cows and lupin is taking over the island.  It's poisonous so the cows will not eat it.  And so the beautiful purple flowers are taking over the landscape.

More to come. ... .

Patrick