Alaska Mom Shares How Family Copes with Up to 21 Hours of Sunlight Using Blackout Curtains and Strict Schedules (Exclusive)

Victoria Cook and her family embarked on a significant life change when they relocated from Georgia to Alaska due to her husband Dylan’s military assignment. This transition marked not only a geographical shift but also an entry into a new and unfamiliar environment. For Cook, a 27-year-old former registered nurse and currently a stay-at-home mother of two, the move was both thrilling and daunting. She had little expectation of what life in Alaska would truly entail, particularly in terms of family separation and adaptation to a vastly different landscape.

Upon arrival in their new home on Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson (JBER) in Anchorage, the Cooks quickly discovered the natural beauty and unique lifestyle that defines Alaska. “Once we got here, we quickly fell in love with the scenery, the wildlife and the slower pace of life,” Cook explained. The family’s newfound surroundings have proven to be captivating, a stark contrast to their previous life in Georgia.

In her daily routine, Cook has noticed that life in Alaska aligns more closely with her familiar experiences than she had anticipated. Like many parents, she navigates daily tasks such as cleaning, filming content for social media, and, whenever possible, venturing outdoors with her children. They enjoy simple pleasures such as walking to local coffee shops, visiting parks, and exploring nearby hiking trails. “Every quick walk or drive shows us a view unlike anything we encountered in Georgia,” she remarked.

However, the adjustment period has not been without its hurdles. Living so far from extended family has been challenging for the Cooks, but they are also learning to adapt to the unique daylight patterns that Alaska presents. Currently experiencing about 18 to 19 hours of sunlight each day, Cook noted that this will extend to nearly 20 to 21 hours in June.

Despite these changes, she has found the adjustment manageable. As a nurse accustomed to night shifts, the shift in day-night patterns has felt less drastic for her. “We sometimes lose track of time; I might think it’s eight in the evening, and it’s suddenly eleven,” she said. To help control the situation, they maintain a consistent routine for their children, which has proven effective in managing the new environment.

One of Cook’s TikTok videos has gained significant attention, beautifully illustrating the surreal experience of walking outdoors in natural light at eleven o’clock at night. The video attracted over 6.3 million views and sparked conversations about the misconceptions surrounding life in Alaska. “Many people assume Alaska is constantly dark, freezing, and miserable, but that’s not the reality,” she emphasised. “We’ve only been here a little over a month, and it’s already starting to warm up, revealing views more breathtaking than we ever imagined.”

The viral response to her social media posts has surprised Cook, highlighting the varied perceptions people have about Alaska. “It’s interesting, as half the comments express a desire to live here, while the other half strongly disagree,” she noted. Many viewers were unaware of the vibrant and warm side of the state, which has given her the opportunity to challenge stereotypes and showcase a more authentic view of Alaskan life.

Documenting everyday experiences has also transformed how Cook appreciates sharing her family’s journey online. “I never expected a simple video to resonate with so many people,” she reflected. Cook feels inspired that what may seem mundane to her can hold significant interest for others.

In her closing thoughts, Cook summarised her newfound appreciation for Alaska. “The state is much more than its stereotypes; it’s a beautiful, unique place full of experiences that many won’t encounter in their daily lives.” Her family’s journey illustrates not just a geographical change, but a personal growth and an expanding appreciation for life in a new and enchanting environment.