Wilderness Blues- Ramblings from the Great Land

 Twice this past week I went to the post office and discovered boxes from long time friends. I wasn't expecting them, and I guess that's what makes them so much more special. Earlier in the week I received a package from my friends, the Pinards. We have a special bond that people often share when they've gone through hard times together. For a number of years we lived at Game Creek with other families, raising our children, working on various projects, eating together, worshipping together and laughing together. We both ended up leaving and moving to Hoonah, where we continued to socialize, frequently getting together on Saturday nights to play cards or having dinner on a Sunday evening or special occasion. When they left Hoonah we felt like a part of ourselves was missing. We still keep in touch and Jan and I were fortunate enough to share a dinner with them on their fiftieth wedding anniversary. Nonetheless, it was a surprise to receive a package from them. When I got hom...

   No doubt most of you have heard of that fine organization that is run by the marine corps reserve every year around Christmas- Toys For Tots. They collect and distribute toys for children who are less fortunate and who might go through Christmas without any toys without the generous help of Toys For Tots and the people who donate to them. While I know that it's not a high priority for some folks, it can nonetheless impact a child who sees other kids with toys while they have nothing at a time of year when so many people talk about good will and Christmas cheer. This year in particular is going to hit a lot of families hard. So many folks are without a job and are struggling just to keep a roof over their heads and food on the table. I hope that if you have been blessed with all of life's necessities that you will consider donating a toy or two or more. You don't know how you might bless some child, and no gift goes unrewarded- you'll be blessed in return. I looked in...