Thank You

We never had a hard time of it. For some reason Mike, the reporter in Petersburg, and I became friends effortlessly.

Maybe it was because I was relieved to have someone else close to my age new in Alaska, someone who, like me, was crazy enough to take a chance on such a ridiculous idea. It’s not everyday you find someone you have that much in common with that instantly. Maybe it was because we both saw each other as the other – the other non-Alaskan.

Despite the few times we see each other – after all, our islands are a 2 ½ fast ferry ride or 3 hour slow ferry ride away – each time we do, we manage to fall into a groove with each other, so simply. He might be the closest thing to family I have out here.

We both live for outdoor music festivals even though we don’t necessarily have the same taste in music. We both enjoy drinking even though I’m the one who gets hung over. We both knew there was something to be found on small islands in Southeast Alaska.

In tiny, isolated corners in the world – and Southeast is indeed one such place – it’s remarkable to find someone who will buy you a delicious sandwich, carry it for three hours and not take one bite.

What’s more remarkable is the way someone will totally be there, and save your day.