Welcome to the Golden Heart City

When I travel to various places outside of Alaska, I'm often asked questions that seem quite silly to me. I've realized that many people simply don't know because the thought of visiting here, with its record-breaking subzero temperatures, can be daunting for those in places like Texas and Hawaii.

My home in Fairbanks experiences some of the most extreme temperatures, ranging from nearly 100 degrees in the summer to a frigid -60 degrees in the winter.

This place isn't suited for everyone; some days feel like a survival mission. During these challenging times, it can be tough both mentally and physically. The constant bone-chilling cold and high prices for goods mean that adaptation is essential for living here. Despite the physical and financial hardships, there are hidden gems that make leaving this place make you yearn to return.

Dry cabins are common, and having running water is considered a luxury. I have lived in various types of housing, each with its own challenges and benefits.

Welcome to Fairbanks, AK, the Golden Heart City of Alaska. Why is it called the Golden Heart? We are a gold mining town, founded during the gold rush, and here you can learn all about our town's evolution at the now stationary Nenana steamboat at Pioneer Park (locals call it Alaska Land). It's an amazing historical glimpse into our small mining town. One of the coolest things we've done to preserve history was not only expanding but moving an entire church. Yes, we moved the whole building, not just rebuilt it. Our downtown area may be slowly dying, but it comes alive during the summer. It's the oldest part of town, dating back to the gold rush.

Fairbanks is rich in history, and I'll take you on a tour and perhaps embark on some new adventures as well.

So once again, welcome to our Golden Heart City. Let's explore together and learn some fun recipes too.

A frozen lake starts to thaw beneath a clear blue sky, as seen from a friend's porch.