The Longest Day

It's been 17 years since we were at Echo Ranch. The drive in on Monday night was spectacular.  

There was a black bear on the side of the road to greet us.  

Have had the opportunity to go out and check a halibut skate, watch stellar sea lions and visit a lighthouse on Sentinal Island.

Many things have stayed the same: the siren to call us to meals; the sand tracked in by the campers on the dining room floor; pancakes and sausage with rhubarb sauce; Lion's Head Mtn to awe you.

But many things have also changed: two and a half scoops of coffee (NOT 2!) to make a pot; new chapel being completed; even more animals making their way into camp. 

Most difficult to process is that none of the people we worked with and love are still working at the camp. In my heart Echo Ranch is more than buildings and scenic views. Coming back has allowed Sally and me to process things like my burnout and depression. I have found that I don't think I'm bitter or angry. Instead I am sad and have needed to mourn the relationships I have "lost." In some ways the 2 days we have been here have felt like 2 months. There has been so much to sort through emotionally.

On the bright side (literally) today is the longest day- first day of summer. After a winter of rain, cold and little sun, it was always my favorite day to be in Alaska. It's great to be back.