Seriously, I will look into the books you've mentioned. I'm always looking for interesting reading material and it's nice to have personal recommendations.
glad you enjoyed the pix & thought you would have fun here on this thread. I am like you ...love warmth &: the sun & think I would be VERY depressed most of time if I lived in Alaska.. but would really enjoy a LONG visit there (with my dogs).. exploring the various areas & of course taking pix!!!