We lost one of our members

 Anchorage has some incredible members that make it a community of wealth and goodness. For many of us here in Alaska our wilderness is our source of strength, belonging and purpose. 

We live for the out of doors.

Lars Spurkland, a young and energetic member of our Anchorage community

tragically was taken from us yesterday due to a sudden undiagnosed medical condition. 

He lived for the out of doors.

Raye Ann, his wife, our friend, remains with us in the world as she knew it.  His family also remains grounded here on this Earth in the world, as they knew it. The missing piece is Lars by their side, at their door, on their trail and leading the way.

Today, I walked the dog in the daylight being reminded how hard it is for the days to go on with a loss of your son, husband, brother, parent, and/or friend. 

How unbelievably hard.

Spurkland Scramble in honor of Lars Spurkland

Skip and I walked up this afternoon to Service HS to witness the Spurkland Scramble  - the local HS ski race in honor of Lars. 

There was a moment of silence.

Spurkland Scramble in honor of Lars Spurkland

There was beauty in the sky and a wholeness to the community surrounding these skiers. I embraced it as strength for the Spurkland family and for Raye Ann as they seek balance to keep one foot, one ski and one day in front of the other. Their world has a loss, our community has a loss, and it is felt by many.

Spurkland Scramble in honor of Lars Spurkland

 I write this post in honor of Raye Ann and the Spurkland family during this hard time and encourage all community members to hold close, those around you. Your community is filled with individuals who define it, energize it, and move it forward. Let's toast to Lars and his forward movement. The sun shines for you today!

 Raye Ann -your community is here for you!