Hmm... interesting.

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If things don't turn north... uhrm... go south... with one plan, there may be a way to turn it all north.  While looking at options for getting to Alaska, something popped.  One way to check aptitude without losing a brick of gold?  Being a caretaker for a lodge.  They don't seem to require much, seeking, for the most part, someone who isn't an alcoholic.  Oh, sure, I have a tiddle from time to time.  Rarely, though, especially lately.  The last few years have been relatively dry.  And, then, usually, just a few beers per... mostly.  Just an interesting way of figuring some things out, and working my way through.  Rather than take cash, merely trade for rent through the summer and provisions, so as to be ready to do it another year.  That would take care of some costs, the year requirement for becoming an Alaskanite.  Plus, there would be other opportunities, including typical hunting, perhaps fishing.

I don't know quite yet.  I suspect taking a woman to Alaska would be too harsh.  Women just can't deal with some things.  Oh, some do.  Just not a thing to count on.  A bit more time before I can know, if I suspect.  I am suspicious.  The meter reads 'dubious'.  Still, one never knows, front to back, end over end, life just happens to fools, then it ends... usually.  :p  Later.