Happy Anniversary

Well, here it is, exactly 1 year to the day of my arrival to the Queen Charlotte Islands/Haida Gwaii as a permanent resident, and it looks like I haven't shaved since. What a year… I think any regular readers would have to admit that I have participated in some of the most extreme and magical, not to mention beautiful experiences any human could hope for. I’ve caught some the most beautiful specimen of fish available, some washed up on shore, and some to my plate. I’ve gathered some of the most extensive flotsam and Jetsom available, and it seems to continue. I’ve been to the highest and lowest points on the islands, and have pictures to prove it.
I learned how to surf! This has got to be one of the proudest, defining moments of this year. Man, I think I deserved it too, getting freezing cold salt water shoved up my nose for hours at a time, and coming back for more and more! I've managed to buff up a bit, and I look forward to the next season and refining my skills and to get to a more populated beach to see from some serious dudes what the next level looks like.
What has changed in my life... Well, I have retired from the Swim Coaching gig which has alleviated a great deal of stress from overbearing gossipy mothers, and ratty ass kids - much needed professional advancement, not to mention getting up at 6am by choice.
What hasn't changed... well I’ve maintained a single-status for what seems like forever. With such a small percentage of available, good-looking, sane women on the island, I can’t complain. I think I’m ready now for a future leap into a relationship and hope that it comes with open arms. Not sure what I want right now, but I think it’s something like that.
What else has not really changed, but expanded is my appreciation of nature and health has taken a light year leap forwards as the hunter/gatherer has been full on this year and have felt comfortable knowing where all of my food has come from. I’ve learned that electricity and running water are luxuries and not necessarily mandatory to living. That being said, I’m pretty glad I have them both, although I could probably get by with out the hydro.
Things I'm proud of... I’ve managed to be productive in society, volunteering at many avenues and participating in several gatherings. I feel like I’ve found a community that truly values my participation and the skills and words I use. I think the future will be pride in saying 'no' when asked for my participation and letting the people around not have me around so much, which may be good for everone, including me. Where do I go from here…
Well, I think I’ve committed to staying here for a little longer, not sure how long. Real estate is beyond affordable, so my time here may be limited by my desire to rent. I’m definitely going to spend more time reading and writing, which has been a good occupation this summer, and a long overdue skill learned. I think that I’m going to have to spend this winter getting out of the old academic mindset and viewing a bit more on practical skills and guiding. I have seen such a great deal of this island and think it good to share this with others, and make a buck doing it!
What about my resolutions… well, I’d like to say that I’ve at least tried all 51, but not too sure I’ve completed them all, I think I still got a couple months left eh? For the most part, I’d say I’ve done pretty good with myself. I believe I’ve bettered myself and improved upon the lives of others. That’s probably all that anyone can ask of themselves.