Though mid-August days in Alaska are still longer than those in the lower latitudes of the world — in Homer, sunset happens shortly before 10pm right now — I can already start to feel that the season is drawing to a close. The late summer rains have arrived, bringing mist, drizzle and fog into the region, veiling the landscape in silvers and grays.
But even against this muted, monochromatic backdrop, Alaska brims with color and life. From the red flashes of sockeye running upstream, to the tantalizing sprays of wild berries in the forests, Alaska’s vibrant bounty is something you can spot everywhere.
One of my favorite sights is the endless expanse of flowers blanketing the hillsides, overflowing in garden beds, and brightening up the single highway that leads one from Anchorage to the end of the road in Homer. Despite the cloudy forecast, blooms of all shades, shapes and heights put on a glorious display this time of year.
For me, the flowers are a reminder to savor the moment, whether we’re talking about seasons, or watching our children grow older, or even the different phases that we move through in our own lives. I think we can find something to savor, too, in those moments when we’re just barely managing to get dinner on the table after a long day — how much more fulfilling would it be to turn those “getting it over with” moments into “getting into it” moments?
I want to hold onto the bustle and vitality of summer for as long as it’s still here, rather than spending these moments anticipating its end. And our summer has been still very much bursts with life. As many of you know, Arron and I hosted the entire WAC team in Homer last week, a gathering that brought the seaside hamlet an exchange of excitement, curiosity and creativity. I loved experiencing this familiar-to-me town through fresh eyes. I’ll share some more thoughts and stories about the gathering next week, once we’ve all had a chance to catch up.
One day, I hope you all get a chance to experience the spirit of Alaska, too — but for now, my little love letter to Alaskan flowers will have to do. In the meantime, I just wanted to thank you all for your patience while we were away! Our team is back to full speed here, so don’t hesitate to contact us over phone, email or chat if you need any help with your membership.
Live Wild,
Monica
Pictured above: A bevy of late-August blooms in Alaska, in shades of pink, peach, yellow, and white — a reminder that summer is still here, even as the season draws to a close.
