Fairbanks; the Time Capsule

The point of this blog is not only to let the world know what I’m up to but also to give anyone interested in Alaska an impression of what Fairbanks is all about, because it’s a pretty damn fascinating place. Why is it so fascinating? I’m not sure. I repeatedly observe people (self included) getting sucked in by this place and never wanting to leave but also having a hard time putting into words why they want to stay so badly. “It’s just the excitement of being somewhere different – it will pass“, some say. “Oh she met a guy…”, others rationalize. “It’s the nature and outdoor adventures opportunities”, proclaim all the sports enthusiasts. “Alaska gets in your blood”, locals exclaim. Somehow that last statement is closest to the truth. While I can’t deny the other arguments, there is something more to it. In Fairbanks there is a sense of space both physically and psychologically greater than anywhere else I’ve ever been. Physically we are surrounded by wild nature on all sides and most houses and cabins are spread out with plenty of land between neighbors. But it is also like the sky is bigger, the vision clearer and the air fresher. 

Psychologically there is room for you whoever you are and regardless of what you do. Your level of education, job situation and political views don’t define who you are up here. Your appearance and general sense of fashion couldn’t matter less and practical clothes has somewhat become a statement of this in itself. Flat hair is a given with the hats you are forced to wear every time you step out and combined with irregular showering a good hair day makes you feel like you’ve been to the spa. A relaxed attitude towards time and the American small-talk culture makes you worry less about hurrying around and keep you in the moment. It also makes it seem like the rest of the world is speeding by, always hurrying towards something better, bigger or new while time stands still in Fairbanks and I finally have time to catch my breath.   

January 2012 has now officially been named the 7^th coldest month since 1904 with an average temperature of -31 C (-24 F). Classes have started; I’ve paid my tuition and started developing my research. James is sleeping, the cats are meowing quietly and it’s time for tea.