I got a gift today. My friend Jiho went up to experience Alaska with the Behr family this year and just got back yesterday. Today he sent me a bunch of pictures of my people. I know the place well enough to fill in the stories behind the images, but for tonight, I’ll let the photos do the talking.

We’ll start with my little fisherwoman, looking wry and guilty of something.

And here are Robbi and Kato–and evidence that she at least glances at all those letters I send her.

It seems that Seiko and Alden treated Monkey to some quality time in the bungee bouncer.

And here is some evidence that Alden might actually be participating in the fishing. Here she is with some of her quarry.

My guess is that it went down a little differently. First, Robbi pulled the fish from the net.

Then brought them to shore.

At which point, Alden took all the credit. Before coming inside to lounge with her juice box.

Here is this year’s fishing contingent, the family Behr and a collection of hardy helpers.

I like to think they’re waving to me.

And here’s my favorite shot of all: quintessential Alaska. When we’re not fishing or mending nets or running from grizzlies, Alaska is about resting in the sunlight on the window seat, resting weary bones, and just being for a while.

If I could be anywhere right now, picture me here.