Photographic Reminders of Why We Live in Alaska

Just a few days after Daylight Saving Time this year, my Husband and I turned to each other and said, "We made it through another winter!" Sure, there is still snow on the ground and Xtra-tufs are the only footwear choice that makes sense, but the daylight has returned and the sun has some warmth to it again.

It's amazing what this small shift can do for the psyche. I've come to terms with the fact that I suffer from Seasonal Affective Disorder pretty badly. I chug my Vitamin D drops and slather on copious amounts of moisturizer like so many Alaskans, and just when I think I can't take the darkness and duck-walking anymore, Mother Nature provides.

Last night, thanks to amazing and doting Grandparents, my Husband and I got to have an impromptu date night. With the return of light, flying in the evenings is once again an option for us, which seemed like the perfect way to enjoy this beautiful new season and each other post-baby. Soaring above the snow-capped mountains with rich, golden sunlight on the horizon was exactly what I needed to remind me why I live here and that Alaska is worth it.

I'm not saying I won't break down into tears in the Fred Meyer parking lot anymore, but I am feeling a lot more like the townsfolk in "Carousel" when they start singing "June is Busting Out" than not. (Who's still with me? Am I losing people with the showtune references?) I guess what I'm saying-- mainly because I need the reminder sometimes-- is, life is beautiful and there's always a light at the end of the tunnel. That, and thank goodness for sunlight and Grandparents.