As we race through spring here in Fairbanks I'm trying to stop and enjoy the small victories over winter when I can.  A week of temperatures in the 70s combined with 18 hours of daylight have pushed the birch trees into the budding phase...

...and in many cases, beyond.

Other plants around our house are showing signs of life as well.

In other news, Josh and I have been updating some of our gear for the impending road trip back home.  I retired my old Merrills and picked up a new pair of Vasque Sundowner GTX.  Josh loves his old Vasques (he picked up a new pair as well - we used Zappos.com) and I'm already in love with my new ones!  I highly recommend them.