Solstice

It's the happiest day of the year in Alaska... for me, at least.

First off, it's the most sun we'll get all year: 21 hours, 49 minutes of sun today in Fairbanks. One must embrace it, because come December, it's definitely in short supply and probably 100º colder. But for now, we can hike and bike in t-shirts and shorts while we donate blood to the healthy mosquito population.
Second, in contrast, every day we gain more and more darkness back, starting with meager twilight, then full-on aurora viewing potential. Darkness means cooler temperatures, fall (the most beautiful time in Alaska), hunting seasons, and, eventually, the first snows and freeze-up, with the dancing aurora overhead.
Third, it's the perfect reminder that every season is to be looked forward to and taken advantage of, as they all have incredible features and benefits, as well as make many outdoor activities possible, especially so in Interior Alaska.

What do I do each solstice? The answer is almost saddening, but, nonetheless, I plan trips for the coming season, i.e., winter & spring/summer/fall.
Yes, 75º and here I am, planning biking and skiing trips for this winter. When I look back at winter solstice, I distinctly remember staring at maps and dreaming up hiking, biking, and packrafting trips for this summer.

I don't know what to say, but I know for now, I'll be out trying to capture every bit of summer I can, while it's still here.
Stay sane. Sleep outside.