Living in My Alaska:  There are  challenges when living in the remote rural 'bush'.  Food, clothing and transport are daily priorities. People rely on each other to survive.  'Always be prepared' is the motto.

PROVISIONS

The station wagon loaded with food after a brief shop in town. Next task is to pack food into mailing tubs.

All shopping for food and other essential supplies is best done during the warmer summer months when flights into the bush are more reliable. Read more
                                          

KEEPING WARM

Hooded parkas made of fur and caribou hide keep out the bone-chilling cold

Frost bite is a daily risk when you live in temperatures that can hover between minus 50 and minus 80 degrees. In these conditions, without proper clothing, even a quick run up to the post office, can be dangerous. Read more

TRANSPORT

Villagers on snow mobiles (snogos) await the arrival of a bush plane

Snow machines, provide a vital means of transport. When the rivers are safely frozen over, villagers make long trips to neighbouring villages to visit family and friends on their snow mobiles.
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HOUSING

Teacher housing midwinter.

Faculty housing varies, and is sometimes excellent, specifically designed to attract teachers into the bush.  Faculty housing comes with oil-fired central heating. After heavy snowfalls overnight, help maybe needed to get out.  Read more

KEEPING WELL

Fresh fruit is a real treat for children in the bush.

Schools provide daily breakfast and lunch meals for all their students, and often the elders as well. There is much sickness in the village, so constant hand washing is critical to help stop spread disease. Read more

CLIMATE

View out front door after a blizzard overnight. Pattern of the door is pressed into the snow.

Sometimes after a blizzard, the house may be almost entirely covered in snow. Clambering up on a table and pushing out to start digging, is an energetic way to start the day. Read more