I came here because I hoped for the feeling of homecoming, the relief of being closer to the west coast, a respite from the oppressive tropical sun; and because I feel it is a part of the world where I can, without hesitation, invest precious energy into my work and the people around me, a concept which always eluded me when I worked in the south.
Nothing here has disappointed yet. It’s been a little over a month at work in Valdez and I’ve been in raptures ever since I arrived. Never has a hope or a choice I’ve made exceeded my expectations so thoroughly. Every day when I rise to the cool air and fill my lungs with the delicious fragrance of Alaskan summer, I thank the universe for allowing me to witness the beauty of this place.