RIVERS AND ROADS

"Rivers and Roads" by The Head and The Heart pretty much sums up how I am feeling, as I leave Juneau in just under 24 hours. It's such a bittersweet feeling, emphasis on the bitter. I know that in a few weeks being back in the motherland (WI) will be good but it's hard to have that mentality when things here have been so incredible--especially the past few weeks. I want to write an epic post on my time here, but it's probably not going to happen, so this will have to suffice. After staying up all night writing that ten page paper I was free (aside from my work responsibilities). However, I was still able to find time to frolf, spend time with friends, play frisbee, get some Catan action, etc. Once off contract, I felt like Mel Gibson's character William Wallace in Braveheart... FREEEEDOM! I have been able to enjoy Juneau with pretty much zero responsibility. My days have been filled with beautiful hikes with wonderful friends, tears and goodbyes, 60 degree and sunny weather, as well as packing. I want to give more detail on everything (mostly my hikes) but at the same time, I don't want to share it with you. I guess it's weird Allie logic but Juneau just feels as if its my own secret place. You'll just have to come discover it's magic yourself. I just cannot believe how quickly this year has gone. It has been two years of my life: a year worth of ​

​planning (applications, interviews, waiting) and then a year of actually being here (more or less). I came to this small city not knowing a single soul and am leaving so many friends. All of whom have impacted my life significantly (as cliché as that may sound). Each and every human here has a beautiful soul filled with nothing but genuineness. Something that is hard to come by back home #cynical Not only will I miss the people, but I will miss the character of Juneau. I won't be able to look out my window and see a mountain nor will I be able to conveniently eat a gourmet waffle down the road. The constant overcast became comforting and allowed me to appreciate the sunshine that much more. Thursday night youth group provided joy. The smell of skunk cabbage in the air reminds you that summer is here. Walking the docks helps clear your mind while rollerblading through the woods provides adrenaline. The small bar Squires holds many laughable (all rememberable) memories. I'll miss getting made fun of for my pronunciation of hammAHck, OregAHn, etc. Getting donuts at the BreezeIn at 2 AM was a stress reliever during finals week and overall, just amazing. Juneau, Alaska: I will miss you immensely and will forever treasure the memories you have provided me with. But don't worry, I'll be back again soon. My adventure is not over! See you soon my fellow midwesterners. Much love. - A

#Alaska #RiversandRoads #GrowingUp