Kara

In terms of our own Narnia, Ben could being echoing these words from The Last Battle:
"I have come home at last! This is my real country! I belong here. This is the land I have been looking for all my life, though I never knew it till now...Come further up, come further in!"
Yes, my husband loves the culture, weather, and community. He loves the fact that we can take our four wheeler out and not see anything but trees and tundra for miles.  Ben has learn how to fish, hunt and prepare food as if he's always love to do it that way. And he welcomes others to visit and see for themselves!
Though I am not yet persuaded I am home at last, nor that I been looking for this Alaska all my life, I am starting to know my way around this village pretty well. I could give you a tour (in case any of you answers to Ben's call to "come further up! Come further in" to Alaska.) In fact, I'd say I know it better than Ben. And I give all the credit to Kara.
Kara is a high school sophomore who started running with me at the very beginning. She was on the cross country team training for State. Last year she came in second and this Fall she had hope to train hard and win the gold.  She was a hard worker, willing to do long runs and sprinting with me. But then a month ago she came to school one morning intoxicated. With that and her actions to follow, all sports privileges were taken away from her. She lost her chance to win state. I was so disappointed to find out, but even more worried when I didn't hear from her the next few weeks. Then one day after school she spent three hours with me and the kids. I talked her into still running with me, because we both needed it.

Kara isn't consistent, and sometimes I don't hear from her in days. But she is a fun running buddy; and like I said before I know my way around town, outside of town and through some of the trails. And our talks during running help me get to know her. Come snowy season I am looking for creative ways to still connect with her; but for now just running whenever I can.

Nushagak River- Many trails lead to lookouts over the river.

The only bridge in town; the dirt road behind it leads to the gravel pit.

Running up the pipe line.

Another pit, these are just where open spaces we run hills.

Kara was able to point outs "Erica's"; a small snack shack on our runs. 

Ben and I went there later for date.

Airport road- The main road in town, also leads out to the small airport.