Elmendorf?

SortaCrunchy

Who has experience with Elmendorf AFB?  One of DH's colleagues/friends contacted him yesterday to let him know they have an opening up there and that he'd like DH to put in for it.  In DH's opinion, this guy is in a good position to make it happen if that's what DH wants.  Before we had children, I think I would've been all for, but now my perspective has shifted.  The things that this guy seems to love about AK, namely the abundant opportunities for outdoor activities like hunting and skiing, really aren't going to apply to us on a regular basis since we'll have a preschooler and a new baby due within a few months of when we'd arrive.  And DH has already said that he doesn't think the actual job opportunity up there is as good as the one he has where we are now.  I'm trying to keep an open mind, though.  :-/

So, if you've been there, WDYT?  Is it a good place to have a (very) young family?  Much to do for the kids?  For you?  Do the weather and wonky day/night cycles drive you batty?  Any of your thoughts are much appreciated!

imurs8228

We were there for 3 years and I'd give anything to go back.  The CDC's on base are awesome.  Lots of hiking and tours and wildlife.  I seriously loved everything about that place, but I'm from MI so the weather didn't totally bother me.  The light/dark is not as severe as everyone makes it sounds to be honest.  Yes, in the dead of winter it kind of sucks but I just love it.  The scenery is amazing, you can ALWAYS see mountains.  We didn't have DS when we were there so it might suck to always bundle them up but the snow rocks with little ones and the summers never get too hot!  It's not for everyone because it's so far but you make major money too because of the COLA. HTH!

dulcinea03

I grew up in Anchorage, and can say that it really is a great city to have a young family in. The military community is large and very active, plus there are great family activities in and around Anchorage. We're in CO now, but are hoping to move back to Anchorage sometime in the future. 

If the move seems to be becoming a reality, PM me and I'm happy to give you some more specific pointers/suggestions.

SortaCrunchy

Thank you both!  That was helpful. 

DH and I have decided not to ask for the assignment.  We just don't feel that the timing is right for our family.  For one thing, we try to fly back home at least once a year, and we can't imagine doing that long of a trip with two little kids on a regular basis!  And we'd like to be up there when our children are a little older and will be able to appreciate the beauty more and participate in more of the outdoor activities.  We'd be thrilled to head up that way for a later assignment but for now are hoping to remain at our current base or perhaps get stationed a little closer to home.

Thanks again!