Flaming pink fireweed earned its name by being one of the first plants to colonize scorched earth.  The flower is also a virtual hourglass for its season.  In spring, the lowest buds on the stalk begin to blossom and blooming progresses up until the topmost debut in fall. Everywhere we go in Alaska we see fireweed.  Near Haines Junction the roadsides looked like there’d been a massive Pepto Bismol spill.  The timekeepers are now climbing past their midpoint, constantly reminding us to step lively if we want to hit the high spots and get out while the getting’s good.