Ya know what?
Sometimes even the great beauty held by the Kenai Mountains and Mother Kachemak Bay aren’t enough to keep the Betster from needing a change of scenery.
Though most outsiders would humbly proclaim that we Homerites live in one of the most beautiful and relaxing places in the world.* Yet we who see these sights day in and day out, we who know the true commitment and work it takes to live in this place, might occasionally feel that, just maybe, there are some cooler places to be come summertime.
The travel bug has caught the Betster in its grips. A siesta from the hustle and bustle of work, acquaintances and daily responsibilities is much called for and far overdue.
However, while contemplating this upcoming journey, the Betster started thinking about all that goes into physically getting somewhere. The packing, the driving to an airport, the flight to a slightly larger airport, the eventual flight to the destination, the various excursions and meals that have to be planned. And, then, the whole thing in reverse. It’s almost enough to need a vacation upon returning home.
And yet, families from all over are constantly called to put themselves through the misery of stale airplane air, falling asleep to the melodious screams of a sick infant directly behind them, all in search of a little reprieve.
The Betster is keeping the following in mind for upcoming journeys:
1) Find a good book. One that will last the trip, both in length and in keeping your attention.
2) On layovers, scope out the most reasonably priced drinking establishment with the least sticky bar early, preferably one close to you gate so that you can buzz happily through the boarding process.
3) Put the phone on “Do Not Disturb.” There’s a reason we put ourselves through all this. It’s relaxation. Commit to it.
*Only for the approximately two months of true summer Homer gets per year.
On that note, if you’re staying in town and are looking for something to do, take a gander at these best bets:
BEST BETTER HEALTH BET: Now that the good weather is holding mostly steady, it’s time to strap on those running shoes again! What better way to enjoy the balmy Homer summer evenings than by joining the Kachemak Bay Running Club in its Fun Run/Walks that are held every Thursday? The 5-kilometer run/walk starts at 6 p.m. and takes place at various locations all over town. Go to the club’s Facebook page to see the location for this week. It goes from 6-7 p.m. and is free to the public.
BEST DROP THE BEATS BET: The Salmonfest fun continues (as we impatiently await the arrival of the real deal this August) on Saturday when Steve Poltz will perform at Alice’s Champagne Palace. Speaking of Salmonest, Poltz graced the stage there just last summer. A captivating and entertaining night is guaranteed. The show starts at 9 p.m. Saturday. Tickets cost $10 in advance and $15 door, and are available at The Homer Bookstore, Old Inlet Bookshop and Alice’s Champagne Palace.
BEST BEAT THE HEAT BET: Everyone knows the traditional Spit Run each summer. But have you heard of the “Real” Spit Run? It falls two weeks ahead of the other race and has only one rule: runners are disqualified if their feet hit the pavement. This race takes place completely on the sand. The 5 mile run starts with a brief rules meeting at 11:45 a.m. at Bishops Beach Pavillion on Sunday. Runners must pick their way down the sand beach and tide cuts to the tip of the Spit. The race starts at noon with a minus 4.0 tide. Wear shoes you can get wet. There is no entry fee, and all race finishers will get a free ice cream cone. Questions? Call 399-1010.
BEST BEACH BET: Speaking of the beach, you might a well relax now that you’re there (if you ran the race). Bunnell Street Arts Center will host “Dinner at the Beach” on Sunday at 4 p.m. at the Bishop’s Beach Pavilion. Kachemak Bay Seafood bouillabaisse will be served and attendees will get to enjoy puppets and music. It’s all to celebrate the community-led improvements to Bishop’s Beach Park. The dinner lasts until 8 p.m. The cost is to be determined. For more information, call 907-235-2662.
