The rest of the story...

So here it is - leaving Juneau, Alaska isn't easy. It has been our home for almost seven years and we have made acquaintances and memories that we certainly may not have expected but for which we are forever thankful. In fact, our life here has been rather amazing in lots of ways. First off, you can't beat the natural beauty of this part of the world - not that we have seen a lot of the "world" and I'm sure there is "natural beauty" in lots of places - but Southeast Alaska and Juneau in particular is unbeatable. Stepping into the lives of people whom we didn't know who so graciously accepted us into their Alaskan lifestyle was humbling, in a way. We don't feel like we brought much "to the table" but our eagerness to experience everything and we were not disappointed. From island camping to fishing and crabbing, zipline adventures and food - LOTS of food - laughter with everyone was the common thread. Before we leave, I need to include the views of life here that have meant so much to us. Not just scenery but the people, places and even things that have made our stay so rich in memories.

Family means everything to us - the fact that our kids and their families are so far away was difficult. Travel from Alaska is not cheap or easy and we quickly learned not to fly in winter. However, we met whenever and wherever we could but realize that the grand kids are growing up and won't be home for long so it is now time to bid adieu to Juneau. We go with much sadness, leaving behind those we've come to love, but with eagerness to once again be part of the lives of those we love the most.

In Juneau, we joined the Moose Lodge, Faith Lutheran Church, and a Sunday couples bowling league; we saw wonderful plays and concerts, went to numerous wine and beer tasting events (even a bourbon tasting), made pumpkin chuckin' catapults, hiked, biked, boated and flew in float planes. We had Happy Hour at the boat condo where the "catch of the day" could be fresh scallops or crab along with stories, jokes and irreverent songs as well as overnights at Tequila Cove with (how many?) bottles of Tequila downed from jalapeno pepper shot glasses.

We celebrated weddings, mourned at funerals. We laughed and cried, sang and danced, enjoying the scenery and the friends that surrounded us. We could not have asked for more.

Now, we are planning our next adventure. Our plan is to view this country through the windows of our fifth wheel, spending time near the kids and other family and friends as often as possible. As we travel, this journal will be updated so you can see our route, view our pictures and share our experiences through our stories. Some chapters will be just beautiful pictures, some will be stories of us struggling through challenges of living on the road but all will be our personal stories told with truthfulness and humor.

Farewell, Juneau - we will miss you!