On December 31st 2014, after three incredible years, we were going leave Alaska. So before we left, we decided to pay Fairbanks a visit, right in the middle of winter. On December 26th, after a short flight on Alaska Airlines, we got our rental car and drove into town.

We drove south to North Pole, AK to visit Christmas in Ice, a Winter park with incredible ice sculptures, fun ice slides and a kids ‘playground’.

The next day we headed northwest to Chena Hot Springs Resort, where we had the opportunity to dive into the hot springs, which are at an average of 106 degrees Fahrenheit, while it was around minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit outside. As soon as we walked into the hot springs, the steam rising from the water instantly froze on our hair, eyebrows and eyelashes, giving us quite the winter wonderland look! It’s an experience I highly recommend.

At the hotel we stayed in they had a Christmas tree with a big teddy bear on display. Our little guy loved on this bear so much, the hotel staff decided to give it to him as a gift, such a sweet gesture. I’m happy to report the bear is still with us, and is still a beloved companion to our son, 5 years and counting!

This visit to Fairbanks was the best farewell to Alaska we could have planned for. Soon after we finished packing up our little apartment and got on a plane heading south on New Year’s Eve.

But not before having one last celebratory dinner at Glacier Brewhouse. Here’s to new adventures to come!