Kodiak Retreat

09/30/2026

Feeding reindeer in North Pole, Alaska was a highlight of our trip! Getting to meet them up close made this stop even more memorable. If you’re planning an Alaska road trip, this was one of our favorite experiences along the way.

Would you stop to feed the reindeer?

09/30/2026

I was looking through old pictures for Kodiak Retreat videos when I came across these—some of the last photos I took of my bonus brother.

In sixth grade, he told my brother he was afraid to go home. My brother told him to get on the bus and come home with him. He did, and he became part of our family forever.

Our family had gathered in Kodiak to support him and his kids as they spread his ex-wife’s ashes. It was an amazing week together. Just days after he left, he was killed in an accident at work.

These pictures mean more than I ever could have imagined when I took them. I’m grateful for that week and for parents who taught us to open our hearts and home to someone who needed it.

Some family bonds begin at birth. Others begin with a seat on the bus.

09/26/2026

Some days, Kodiak trades sunshine for fog and mist, and somehow the view becomes even more beautiful. You can feel a little magic in the air when the clouds settle over the mountains. Do you love a misty day as much as I do?

09/25/2026

Bunker Hill in Chiniak is a fascinating place to explore Kodiak’s history. Stay bear aware, give wildlife plenty of space, and respect the historic buildings so others can enjoy them too. Have you been?

09/25/2026

09/24/2026

Looking for an easy way to get out and explore Kodiak? Near Island has beautiful hiking trails just minutes from downtown. 🌿 Keep your eyes open and stay bear aware—even when you’re close to town. Have you hiked Near Island?