Falling into Place

by: Jaimie Gleissner

Things I've done since I turned 25 (October 1, 2011):

Local Wine Girl:

This was a pretty awesome job. Not only did I get to chat with a lot of cool people, but I also learned a lot about wine. Wine for Dummies was an extremely useful tool for gaining a basic knowledge of popular wines. By the end of the month, I was able to describe and recommend wines. It was pretty awesome.

Moved to Denver:

After several months of deliberation, I finally decided to move to Denver, CO. Even better, once I made the decision, I followed through with it! A little shopping around on Craigslist provided cool roommates and an affordable place to live.

Got a Full-Time Job:

Do I enjoy my job? Absolutely not. Am I proud of myself for lining up a job the same day I moved into my new home? You bet! Though I'm looking for a different job, it's nice to have an income while I get on my feet.

Twenty-five is a pretty intimidating age. A lot of my friends are getting engaged, married, or having kids on purpose - life decisions that I can't even comprehend. Honestly, if I had a puppy it would probably die due to neglect. It seems like 25 is the age where people start to fully embrace their adult lives, yet here I am just beginning to figure mine out. My BA degree is collecting dust while I pretend to bust my ass in a job that pays 100% commission. On Wednesday I called fax machines for the last hour so that I didn't have to talk to people. Needless to say, I'm hoping to have a new job before the month is out. Sure, at times I feel a little lost, but I've been lucky enough to have a great support network. Every thing is falling into place nicely. 

Settling In Instead of Down

by: Jaimie Gleissner

Well, I've officially spent my first week in Denver! The week was a little hectic and included a near miss on an interview. Luckily, the interview went exceptionally well (despite getting lost and arriving late). There's nothing as comforting as knowing that you'll be able to pay your bills, and both my coworkers and roommates are shaping up to be pretty awesome!

Overall, I've had a fantastic week. I don't know many people in the area, but the few people I know eagerly welcomed me to the city with a weekend full of great music and food. I've gotten lost in the more times than I can count, but I've always managed to get where I'm going. When I accepted my job, my entire lifestyle changed. At first, I was worried that I would lose myself in the daily grind, yet I still function with a minimalist mentality. I don't have many possessions; I sleep on an air mattress and only have 3 DVDs. Life doesn't get any better.

Adjustment wise, I'm still getting used to living in a city. Denver, CO is several times larger than Bloomington/Normal, IL. I have four reference points in the city: my house, my place of employment, the Bluebird Theater, and a friends apartment, but I'm starting to get the hang of things. Foolishly, I worried myself into a frenzy about settling down, but the truth is, moving to Denver and making a home of my own is one of the biggest adventures I've ever embarked on.  

Apology

Hi Everyone,

We're sorry to inform you that, due to our busy schedules, we will no longer be able to post bi-weekly. As the three of us have started new chapters in our lives, it's become increasingly difficult to continuously post Wednesday and Sunday.

But don't worry, we'll still be posting a regular Sunday post. We also plan to resume posting twice a week as soon as we possibly can!

Thanks for continuing to read our blog!
-Away We Go

The Gift of Gaga

by: Jaimie Gleissner

I can pinpoint the exact moment that I developed a serious girl-crush on Lady Gaga. My sister was obsessed with her first single, “Just Dance,” and as I recall, my brother didn't completely hate the song. We played it, on a loop, the entire way to our family Thanksgiving and had a sweet dance party in the car. As Gaga came out with more songs, it became a major form of entertainment to watch my sister freak out every time one of her singles played. Then I saw the video for “Telephone” – the costumes, choreography, sets, lighting, make-up; my mind was blown. From performances to interviews, Lady Gaga radiates a persona that is nothing short of enthralling.

While working in Wickenburg, AZ, I met a fellow little monster. Though the work environment was trying at times, we escaped by playing dress-up and listening to Lady Gaga. We'd spend hours applying our make-up, throw on some fishnets, and drink boxed wine in my room all night. The day we found out that Gaga was going to be in Phoenix we bought our tickets without clearing it with our boss. Without a doubt, we were going to that concert. After months of dress rehearsals, we arrived at the Monster's Ball in true monster style: sans pants. The concert took us on a journey as Gaga not only played a flaming piano but melted faces with a high-heel guitar solo. Caught up in the moment, we were catapulted out of Arizona to Planet Gaga. I figured that nothing could top the concert and filed it in my mind under “unforgettable.” There was no way any other Lady Gaga experience could top seeing Mother Monster in concert. Then again, life always has something unexpected up it's sleeve.

Every year, the fishing lodge I work for hosts several “big-deal” businessmen. For a few days, the entire staff does everything in their power to make sure our special guests have everything they could possibly want. When the Gould party arrives, we don't say no; we find a way to get them whatever they want. After a particularly stressful day, Lara (my roommate) Facebooked me to come down to the office, informing me there was a surprise awaiting me that was too good to miss. After a short debate (via Facebook chat), I grudgingly headed down the boardwalk to see what she wanted. I entered the office and was greeted by George Kalinsky (the official photographer for both Madison Square Garden and the New York Mets) and Paul Gould (Managing Director of Allen and Company, LLC) presenting me with an original Kalinsky print of Lady Gaga live at Madison Square Garden. I thought they were just showing me the picture at first, but slowly, I realized George was actually giving me the portrait.

As it turns out, Lara had been eavesdropping on their conversation and when she heard them bring up Lady Gaga, mentioned that I was a huge fan. The portrait had already been given away to Sandy Climan (president of Entertainment Media Ventures – the guys who brought you Iron Man), but he was kind enough to give up his photograph so that I could have it. When they handed me the picture, I was so blown away that I incapable of forming sentences. I muttered a stunned “thank you,” as I fought back tears and the urge to hug both guests. The look on my face must have been priceless because Paul and George had ear-to-ear grins on their faces as I struggled to come up with something to say besides “wow.”

Weeks later, I'm still flabbergasted and tend to pull out the photograph just to make sure it's real. Seasonal professionals work long hours and put aspects of their real lives on hold for months at a time to live on location. The main payoff doesn't show up in our paychecks; it lies in the once-in-a-lifetime experiences that occur with every season. In my case, the seasons biggest payoff came in the shape of an amazing photograph of a pop icon taken by a world renowned photographer. Sometimes, I guess you just get lucky.

One More Goodbye

by: Jaimie Gleissner

Illinois is beautiful in the fall. I had put so much effort into escaping my hometown that I had forgotten how amazing it is to gaze at the horizon with an uninterrupted view. Back-roads and corn fields are the scenes of my childhood - things I still see clearly in my minds-eye when I'm far away from home. Harvest season brings the brilliant oranges, yellows, and reds of fall, and I find myself reminiscing over the huge piles of leaves my sister and I used to jump in. The air is starting to cool and become crisp now that October is reaching it's end. By the end of next month, winter will be in full swing. Temperatures will drop far below zero; snow will pile up and hang around until spring, and every

Midwesterner will ready their snow shovels and stock up on salt.

Last winter I lived in Wickenburg, AZ and would cringe when the weather dropped below 60. In a few days, I'll be packing up my car and leaving for Denver, CO. Lola (my car), and I will once again be forced to brave the winter elements. I've never spent a long period of time in Colorado, and I'm looking forward to experiencing everything the Mile High City has to offer. At the same time, I'm absolutely terrified to leave home and possibly find a permanent address.

I've spent the past 16 months making decisions on a whim and avoiding actions that could potentially make me commit to a single location. But a lifestyle of constant goodbyes becomes sad and exhausting after a while. In a few days, I'll say a final farewell to Illinois. With the exception of a couple summer trips, I'm officially relocating on a permanent basis (at least that's the plan). I've made a living traveling by myself without anyone else to worry about, but I think I'm ready to be a little more stable. Am I giving up my ambition to travel as much as I can while spending as little as possible? Absolutely not. I'm just ready to grow up a little bit.  

From One Traveler to Another

I stumbled across this guy online and found his writing rather interesting. Check it out!

http://artofbackpacking.com/

First Impressions

by: Samantha Bermitz 

My first impression of college is that it's scary. You are an adult now and are paying for school. Making sure you pick a career path that you are passionate about is something that can be extremely intimidating.

In a couple of days I will be starting college. There are so many thoughts and feelings running through me that I can't properly process them. I'm super nervous and find myself panicking about the importance of first impressions. In order to make sure that everyone knows how passionate I am about cooking, I try to project an air of confidence combined with an eagerness to learn which doesn’t come easy when your nervous.

While on vacation, I’ve been mentally preparing for the up coming adventures (and by preparing I mean doing nothing). I am on vacation. Why should I do anything but relax? My boyfriend, Stephen, has been nothing but encouraging, and with all this relaxation going on, I've managed to calm down.

When I got to New York I kept thinking how intimidated I was by the fact that I was going to college. When Steven asked why, I said” Just think I am 18 and there are people of every age and from every walk of life who want to cook and most will be awesome at it. I want to be someone people notice, and I want to be the amazing student who stands out for all the good she does. I want to be the person who makes people nervous about their cooking.”

What Steven said next amazed me and made me love him more. "Baby, you are an amazing cook, and you are so passionate about everything you do. Those people in class should be afraid of you not you of them.”

After he said that I knew I would do awesome and be awesome. I had nothing to be worried about. I had experience from Yes Bay which will benefit me as I keep my mind on track. I'll be just fine.

Remember, if you love what you do you, will never work a day in you life.

p.s never bring a gun to a sweagle fight!

Not so Entertaining

by: Jaimie Gleissner

You'll have to bear with us folks! The Away We Go staff has been pretty busy this month, so we hope you can understand if our posting schedule (Wednesday and Sunday) is a bit of a mess. Lara and I are getting ready for pretty big moves and Sam is starting school. With all of these big changes, we've gotten a bit scatter-brained. We appreciate your readership and are trying our best to post in a timely manner.

Lately, I've been in charge of wine tasting at the local liquor store. Since Rochelle is a pretty small town, I have ample time to sit and think. Here are some of the things that run through my mind when there aren't any customers in the store:

- Thinking too much can be dangerous. It's amazing how easily you can talk yourself out of taking a risk when you're trying to be reasonable.

- Why does my coworker keep dusting? I spent 20 minutes dusting today, and he just keeps dusting the same bottles. He's been at it for hours. God, he must be bored.

- I can't remember what I was going to do, so I'm just going to wander around the store until I figure something out.

- Listed all of the states I've been to: 26 (counting Washington DC even though it's not really a state).

- Why does time go by so slowly when we're bored and so quickly when we're entertained?

- I'm hungry.

- Random song

Turns out my life at work isn't that entertaining. Luckily, I've had a fair amount of time on my hands and managed to find something more interesting than my day. Check out 50 pictures from National Geographic:

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/4AmK20/www.topdesignmag.com/50-images-from-national-geographics-2010-photo-contest/

Crossing My Fingers

by: Jaimie Gleissner

When I woke up this morning, I realized that it was not Wednesday. In fact, today is Thursday which means this post is a day late. Between catching up with friends and trying to find some sort of routine, I've completely lost track of days. Oops.

Although I don't know what day of the week it is, I've successfully managed to make decisions. There were days in Alaska where I'd sit down and think myself into a state of nausea while contemplating my future. I came up with several career paths: flight attendant, teacher, bar owner, dragon pilot, etc. Obviously, a few of these idea were a little far fetched. I have a bad habit of convincing myself that I'll be really great at anything I try, and I'm the first person to quit when I realize I might have to put in a lot of work to reach my goal.

Back in the real world, I've become more realistic. Would I like to be a dragon pilot? Heck yeah! Have I realized the chances of that happening are unlikely? Sadly, yes. On the other hand, I'd probably end up singed by fire breath. That's why instead of worrying about a career in handling mythical animals, I've decided to push my moving date to the beginning of November. Two weeks from now, I hope to be on my way out to Colorado. Ideally, I'll even have a few job interviews lined up when I get out there.

Nothing is more exhilarating and terrifying as embarking on an unknown adventure. I never would have guessed that I'd be more nervous about trying to find a job in an unsteady economy than heading into the Alaskan wilderness. Right now, I'm just crossing my fingers and hoping that the move goes smoothly. Wish me luck. 

Here Today

by: Lara Cleeland

Here Today…

Dear mountains,

I am finally home, I have never been so glad to be adventuring within the boundaries of Jackson Hole, Wyoming. 

Dear concrete,

I can finally skateboard on your smooth surfaces. The reunion was priceless.

These two nostalgias that have been built up over the past 4 months are no longer distant dreams, but my new reality. My mental happiness and physical health are reaping the benefits from being home in my element. Like that of a complete protein, similar to rice and beans, the mountains and concrete are my perfect combination to keep me thriving. 

Gone Tomorrow…

However, I’m a nomad at heart…always on the move. Hopping from place to place. Searching for something new or running from the boredoms that weave themselves into daily routine.  Therefore, I’m moving again, back to Tahoe in a few weeks to begin a renewed journey for the wintertime. 

Unfortunately, moving all the time, gets exhausting, and starting from scratch is never an easy task. The sacrifices are great, including the lack of financial stability and the hardship of holding onto strong relationships with family and friends is proven difficult. The struggles and inconveniences of this lifestyle are not for everyone. But they are rewarding if you open yourself to the idea that constant change isn’t such a bad thing, because in exchange, you get to experience so much more.

Maybe my life isn’t supposed to be normal, where I settle down so easily, and follow a structured approach to the successes of this world. Maybe my goals aren’t measured in the same way others measure their successes. I’m happy just knowing that I’ve lived my life with little restriction, and in doing so, have seen and done so much more than I could have ever dreamed.

In conclusion, life’s questions can keep racking themselves into my brain, but the only way to find out what I’m really meant to do on this earth, is through experiencing everything imaginable. Even if that includes making a bunch of extra mistakes and getting lost along the way. After all, how else are you supposed to find yourself, if you don’t take the time to explore all the possibilities and detours that life has to offer?

The Morning After

by: Samantha Bermitz

Back in the real world there are cars, cell phones, and depending on your location, sunshine. I have to cook my own living expenses, and all the things that were provided by Yes Bay are now gone. Being back in Florida is a lot to get used to, and I had to spend a lot of money getting everything organized.

• Getting insurance for my car:

This was a lot more difficult than I had planed. I thought I would try progressive first, but it turned out to be more than I cared to spend, with an initial down payment and no 6 month payment option. Then I called several private insurance companies and didn’t qualify for coverage because of my lack of previous credit and insurance. (Mind you, I just graduated high school.) Geico ended up being my most affordable option, $1260.88 for 6 months, so of course I went everyone's favorite computer generated gecko.

• Getting my car registered and buying my tags:

What was supposed to be an easy task was stretched into the longest and most difficult. When I arrived at the Department of Motor Vehicles, I noticed a lot of people waiting and no one being helped. I thought it was weird, but I got my number and sat down anyway. As I looked up at the number board, I realized that my number would be up shortly. However, as the lady who was in charge walked out and called for every ones attention, my excitement faded. Apparently the computers were down, and they couldn’t do anything without them. No one knew when the system would be up and running again. I wouldn’t have minded if I didn’t need it that day, but wanting to get behind the wheel, I held my ground for 4 hours. When the computers were up again I was able to get tags and register my car. In the end I spent $460.55: $250 on the tag and the rest on the registration. What a waste of a beautiful day!

• Registering for College:

Registering for classes was far less frustrating than registering my car. I finalized my enrollment, got my ID, and ordered my chef uniforms. Everything went smoothly, but they estimated $900 for books alone per semester. Yikes. At least I’ll be all set when I get back from my mini-vacation with my boyfriend.

There were a lot of silly things that I had to get used to such as the bright sunny days of Florida, answering my phone, carrying my wallet around, and driving. Luckily, I got the hang of everything pretty quick. All in all, I’m glad to be home. Though I miss Yes Bay,it's comforting to know that I'll soon be returning to the place where you never bring a gun to a sweagle fight. 

Landing on My Feet

by: Jaimie Gleissner

Getting into a normal routine has been pretty tough since my return to Illinois. I've spent the past week staying up until 3 in the morning, waking up late in the afternoon, eating fast food, drinking beer, and hanging out with my friends and family. Upon departing Yes Bay, I had a whole list of things I needed to get done. Since I don't remember what was on that list, it's safe to say I haven't accomplished any of it.

Actually, I have gotten a couple things done this week. I've managed to complete another year of living, and when I went to the liquor store to buy beer, I walked out with a job... and beer. I haven't done much thinking, though I have decided that I will be moving to Denver. My first week back, as you can see, has been extremely uneventful.

This time last year I was getting ready to drive across the country. I went from living in South Eastern Alaska to Wickenburg, Arizona. Everything was scary, and I felt shell shocked for much of the move. The transition into society has been a lot easier this time around. Instead of timidly testing the waters, I threw myself into civilization. Working as a seasonal professional has taught me a lot of things, and the most important thing I've learned is to embrace the unfamiliar situation.

That being said, lately, I feel like a cat that's stuck in a tree. I've managed to get myself to a really high branch. The view is pretty good, but it's starting to get dark, and I'm getting pretty hungry. Not to mention, it's getting cold. Looking around, I realize that I don't know how to get down, so I start mewing and hope someone will hear me and get me out of this tree. Finally, it dawns on me that no one is coming. The only option I have is to stop being such a pussy and jump. After all, I am a cat. I'll probably land on my feet.

Rude Hand Gestures

You might have noticed that these last two posts are pretty much just links to other articles. Not to worry, this hasn't become the norm! Sam, Lara, and myself are working on re-acclimating to the outside world. Starting Sunday we'll be back to posting original articles. As for now, here's something I thought was pretty entertaining:

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/1LyMTI/www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/picturegalleries/8788932/Rude-hand-gestures-of-the-world.html%253Fimage%253D5

-Jaimie

PS If you like what you read tell us and your friends!

An Essay by Einstein

He was a pretty smart guy!

http://www.stumbleupon.com/su/2X2BDM/www.aip.org/history/einstein/essay.htm

To an Unforgetable Season

Here's to luck, love, and fortune. May we be lucky enough to love what we do and fortunate enough for our paths to cross again. As for now, it's time for a new season.

Yes Bay Lodge: The Soundtrack

In case you haven't picked up on it from our last few posts, our season in Alaska is about to wrap up. The summer, once again, has left us cut off from the real world; extremely limited access to the internet and television has left us to exhaust our Ipods in an effort to stay entertained. Music has been a driving force behind our summer offering both empathy and inspiration. Before we get to our favorite songs this summer, here is a broader taste of what we've been enjoying:

Lara's Artists of the Summer (since she refuses to recognize albums because she hates them):

• Trampled by Turtles
• Deer Tick
• Dr. Dog

Jaimie's Albums of the Summer (since she annoyingly listens to the entire album):

• Everything is Saved – The David Wax Museum
• Quacking Ducks – Leer-Jet and the Flatulent Buttholes 
• … Of Men And Beggars – Dirty Sweet

We are pleased to present (and in no particular order), Jaimie and Lara's Yes Bay Lodge Soundtrack 2011:

• “The World at Large” - Modest Mouse
• “Alaska” - Dr. Dog
• “Sixteen” - Dirty Sweet
• “Train in Vain” - The Clash
• “Least I can Do” - The David Wax Museum
• “Turn Them” - Sean Bones ft. Norah Jones
• “Human” - The Killers
• “I Believe in a Thing Called Love” - The Darkness
• “Help You” - Trampled By Turtles
• “Wait So Long” - Trampled By Turtles
• “Hell on Earth” - Deer Tick
• “The Breeze” - Dr. Dog
• “Vagabond” - Wolfmother
• “Hometown Glory”- Adele
• “Wagon Wheel” - Against Me!
• “Navajo Rug” - Ian Tyson
• “Lime Tree” - Trevor Hall
• “Send Me On My Way” - Rusted Root

Almost Over

by: Jaimie Gleissner
 

On September 5, only eighteen days until the end of the season, I didn't check the dinner numbers with the office. An oversight which caused the worst dinner service of the season. Once I caught wind of what went down, I took responsibility for my error and spent the next 2 hours sobbing uncontrollably because that's what happens after four months of a job that is both mentally and physically exhausting. Days are long, weeks are longer, and months feel like an eternity until the summer ends too quickly, catapulting me back to a reality that has become increasingly more difficult to relate to. I don't even know why I kept crying, but I think it had to do with losing the security of rent-free housing and only having a half-baked plan of what I'll be doing once I get back to Illinois. However, it could just be the fact that I've been busting my ass all summer and being so close to the end, finally hit the wall.

Four months of frustration and lack of sleep cascaded from my eyes and nose. I'm an ugly crier and by the end of my little sob session, looked like someone punched me in the face. Everyone has given their best effort (or resented those who haven't) to make the season a success. Money is the great motivator, and in an industry where income is supplemented by tips, my coworkers and I have all become people-pleasers. I can't tell you the last time I said something intelligent during meal service because most guests want the help to be dumber than they are. Maybe once a month I've had a guest treat me like a person, but for the most part, I'm just the waitress with a pretty smile.

Then again, I didn't choose this lifestyle for people to consider me an intellectual. I do what I do because I haven't learned to sit still. Truthfully, I'm not sure if I'm even capable of permanence, and I'm scared to go back to real life and get a grown-up job and live in a grown-up apartment. I'm scared to spend a chunk of time in a place that hasn't been home in over a year just to start over in a new place a few months later. For now, the only option I have is to keep reminding myself that all of life is an adventure. Settling down doesn't mean the adventure ends; it just means that it's time for another change. With no set plans, I'm anxiously awaiting the end of the season to see exactly how life after Yes Bay will turn out. Until then, I think I'll dedicate the rest of my summer to losing sleep, getting jacked on coffee, creating flavor explosions in the form of delicious baked goods, and having good time. In the words of Mae West, “you only live once, but if you do it right, once is enough.”

Yet to be Determined

by: Lara Cleeland

To sum up my life in one word, I’d call it “seasoned.” I have collected my fill of adventure over the years and sought each journey to its highest of highs and lowest of lows. It’s a comforting thought, to know that when seasons change, new beginnings are predictably lingering around each corner. My seasonal work is coming to an end in twelve days, otherwise known as my life for the last four months, considering there is no definitive line drawn between work and play living at an isolated fishing lodge in Alaska. Let’s just say, I couldn’t be more ecstatic. However, the sweetness of the finale always carries with it the heaviest of emotion. Knowing I might never again see the faces to which I've grown so accustomed or listen to the same sounds of the river roaring out my window or to fall asleep to the constant repetition of the rain droplets watering the ever soggy earth. As much as I’m ready for this chapter to come to an end, I’m going to miss it greatly. 

 

All the built up frustrations, tensions, and exhaustions will soon be released into histories; filed away, forgotten and replaced by only what we choose to remember. I like it better that way anyways. It’s comforting to know that whatever hardships endured will be replenished by a sense of joy. And upon parting ways from that particular period of time, you might appreciate every incident that led to the final farewell. 

 

However, moments leading to this cathartic sensation can be, more often than not, a frenzied mess. The final countdown is in procession, and the realization hit me like the torrential downpours of last week’s storm hitting my temporary home of Yes Bay, Alaska. I’ve been waiting for this moment to come for so long, but what I will do with it now that it appears in view, remains uncertain. The drawn out anticipation of reaching the end of this particular season has foolishly distracted me from being proactive towards my future. It’s quite unsettling to understand how much time I was allotted to place things into ordinance but lacking the obvious resources and motivation to interact with the outside world has led me to nothing grandeur. However, I cannot let my lack of preparation for the future defeat me entirely considering life is a series of lessons compiled onto a scale of events pertaining to each other. That being said, the cycle of the seasons (along with my life) will continue to move forward, unphased by my personal style of winging things. Following in the direction of dreams, I will focus my attention on being inventive with every reactionary decision. Every failure brings with it an opportunity to succeed elsewhere. 

 

My need for adventure may override my strange longing of settling down one day. But that’s okay, I will continue to pursue new experiences succumbing to the idea that I may be fated towards a more temporary lifestyle. As for now, that’s okay with me. In the mean time, instead of feeling like I have to have everything figured out all at once, I will continue onward pleasantly, with an open mind, finding comfort in the fact that my life is “yet to be determined…”

Closing Up

by: Samantha Bermitz

The end of the season is near,and soon I'll be back in what we call the “real world.”

My head is swimming with questions like will I miss the cold; will I remember how to drive or sit down and enjoy a meal? What about texting? Will I still be fast, or will I be slow?

Even though none of these things are important to most people, they are to me. It might just be the stress of impending change or that I am really going to miss Yes Bay, but trivial things, like joking around the kitchen and moping the crew room floors, are part of my usual routine as opposed to texting and talking on the phone.

Being a newbie and all, I've fond it comforting to make a to do list for when I get back so that I don’t feel too overwhelmed by all the drastic changes:

-register my car

-get insurance

-finish registering for school

-get the rest of my school supplies, etc.

One thing that’s been suggested to me is to take some time off, which makes complete sense. We worked practically 4 months straight; I'm giving myself some time to relax and re-acclimate.

Since school doesn’t start till October 20, I'll be going to New York for a week to visit my boyfriend! I'm super excited because I haven’t seen him for 4 months. We've been together for three years, and this is the most time we've ever spent apart. I miss him so much! I cannot wait to see him, and I think this trip will also help me ease into a more normal schedule.

I am really going to miss Yes Bay and the amazing people I've shared my summer with. When your stuck somewhere for 4 months with people you don't know, you will make friends and some enemies. Hopefully, though, you'll make more friends and carry fond memories of the season with you for the rest of your life.

The end of the season comes fast, and isn’t so bad if you stay positive, breathe, and always remember: never bring a gun to a sweagle fight!

Sitting on the Dock

by: Jaimie Gleissner


I wish you could see the moon shining full over the gill-netters. It's nine-o-clock at night and starting to get dark, yet a few months ago I never thought I'd see the stars. The mountains are fading to sleep, and I will be soon to follow as the fresh water from Wolverine Creek flows visibly through the bay. I hope you can feel the solace that I feel lying here on the dock. My summer home hosts a number of other people. Still, solitude is abundant. Pines growing close to the shore fade into silhouettes with moonbeams playing between the branches. The image is fixed in my mind like the far away cornfields of Northern Illinois. Clear nights, like this one, are rare in Southeastern Alaska.

The season is slowly closing at a rapid pace, and though I cannot wait to see my family, part of me dreads starting over again. My hometown isn't mine anymore, yet so many people expect to see the same person who walked out a year ago. How can I expect them to understand that I've changed? They've changed too; I knew they would. Though I thought I hit pause before I left, each time I come home reminds me that stillness doesn't actually exist. Let me lay on the dock a little longer while I think of all the ways I've failed before I remember my triumphs. A moment of silence – if you will – for all the people I've hurt or wronged, all the times I've made a fool of myself and jeopardized my credibility,  and every time I've let my childish rage get the best of me.

Despite my shortcomings, being at the lodge reminds me of how much I've done in a short amount of time. I've seen the moon hanging over a bay that can only be reached by plane or boat. I've worn shorts to the grocery store while gazing at snowcapped mountains and tested the waters of both coasts. All in all, I've accomplished my goal to live fully and aimlessly wherever I can find work. Still, I feel something missing. There's a void that my travels have not yet filled: a place for my heart to call home.

Out of Touch

By Lara Cleeland

It seems that the world is crumbling beneath us, in a both literal and physical sense. With the economy plummeting and natural disasters striking mercilessly, the world’s reality seems to have been shaken.

However interesting the outside world is, it seems that we are undisturbed in the solitudes of the Alaskan wilderness. It’s although we are unaffected by the consequences of our time and completely void of worldly chaos.

Being so isolated has its ups and downs. Working at Yes Bay Lodge, you are completely out of touch with the bustling world. It’s like we are all living in a bubble, protected in a shield of natural wonder. With cash and clientèle flowing and plenty of work to be had, we are lucky to avoid the lack of labor that the rest of the job market is experiencing. The only things to worry about are if the fish are biting and why the silver salmon run is late. The rain pours every day here, yet we don’t seem to notice anymore.

We never worry about making it to the next paycheck because food is served promptly at a scheduled time; there is no rent to pay, and there’s no lack of work hours to obtain. So however rough I feel Yes Bay Lodge life can get, being out of touch with “the real world,” I should never lose sight of how rough it can be for the people living in “the real world.”

First Timer

By Samantha Bermitz

Just fresh out of high school and already I am on a great adventure and meeting awesome people.

I must say, seasonal work isn't for everyone – you are away from home and living with strangers. However, it is an awesome experience especially for a high school graduate.

I am going to school in the fall to become a chef, so coming out here was just the thing I needed to get me motivated. I've learned so much (like how to make bread and pies). I've also altered some recipes to make them my own.

Some advice for a new timer: If you're young like me, bring someone with you or go with someone. In my case I have my dad. He was a captain here last year and brought me with him for round two. I have no regrets; I'm glad I came and got to have this amazing experience at such a young age. I would recommend it to anyone.

More advice: While packing, remember that this place won't have stuff like q-tips and tooth brushes – at least not for free. Bring everything you need to live, and don’t be afraid to send a package to yourself, so you don’t have to lug it all around!

All in all, I'm super glad that I came to Yes Bay. I would do it again ,but maybe somewhere else were its warmer.

Remember: NEVER bring a gun to a sweagle fight!

Just Like Swazye

By Jaimie Gleissner

Tunes: “(I've Had) The Time of My Life” - Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes

If you're thinking about getting into seasonal work, you should probably watch Dirty Dancing first. The movie, starring Patrick Swazye and Jennifer Grey, encompasses all that is seasonal work. However, believe it or not, the flick does exaggerate a few things. After watching the movie (for the thousandth time), I've compiled a list of scenarios in the movie that will help you gage the likelihood of your summer being like Johnny's.

Scene: “I carried a watermelon.”

Who can forget when the Swaze marches up to Baby and asks to know what she's doing at the party? Baby's awkward interaction with Johnny calls attention to two major aspects of the job: socializing with coworkers and socializing with guests. Let's start by discussing crew dynamics. Baby follows Johnny's cousin to crew quarters to discover a sweet dance party going on after hours, and it's likely (pending staff chemistry) that there will be opportunities to cut loose after work. Just be careful to observe your employer's code of conduct; don't risk your job just to have a good time. Unfortunately, not every job boasts a fun crew. Each new crew is a toss-up, and people don't always click. Advice: arrive on location ready to work, and the fun will work itself out.

As for socializing with the guests, every establishment is different. Remember how hostile Johnny was when Baby showed up? Well, he had good reason to act that way. For those of you who have never lived at work, crew quarters are a sacred place. Rooms designated for staff aren't just other places at work, they're the staff's home for the season. Lodges, ranches, and other seasonal operations cater to the guests, and most establishments have clear boundary lines between crew and guest areas. Common areas and living spaces provide a sanctuary for crew to vent about demanding guests without hurting the tip pool. That said, some guests are pretty cool and may want to partake in staff outings. Here are a few things to keep in mind when socializing with guests off the clock:

-Could my actions negatively affect my tips?

-Will being drunk around a guest get back to my boss?

-Will this cost me my job?

Every place will expect a different level of employee-guest interaction; it's important to use discretion.

Scene: Baby and Johnny Get it On

I hate to be the barer of bad news, but you're more likely to have a Penny style , back-ally abortion than to fall in love with a guest. However, each season does present the opportunity for sparks to fly. I know plenty of people who have met the love of their life on location. Still, I know more people (myself included) who have anxiously walked into a second season, nervously anticipating the first interaction with a former fling. Fraternizing with patrons is generally frowned upon. After all you've been hired to make their stay pleasant. Then again, you're hired to make their stay pleasant. Johnny made out with fat tips before he ruined things by falling in love with Baby. I'm not condoning prostitution, merely advising you, once again, to use your best discretion. Remember, if someone can deliver a line that can compete with “nobody puts Baby in a corner,” go for it. He/she is clearly a keeper.

Scene: Closing the Season with an Impromptu Dance Number

This happens every season no matter where you are because the Pachanga is overrated, and Johnny always does the last dance of the season! (Sorry, I got carried away.)

Ok fine, you probably won't end the season with a sweet, seemingly impromptu yet perfectly choreographed, dance number, but that doesn't mean you'll ever forget the months you've spent forging friendships and sharing one of a kind experiences. Or you could talk it over with your coworkers and see if you can come up with a few moves. I'm just saying, it would be awesome.

Lake McDonald

By: Lara Cleeland

You can undoubtedly count on adventure when you allow two hooligans hailing from Yes Bay Lodge to travel upstream. Like their fated fellow the salmon, this journey begins up river. On a happier note: we survived, whereas our bacon-lettuce-tomato sandwiches and endless bag of cookies were not so fortunate.

So it all began when Jaimie and I headed up the trail to Lake McDonald, through the treacherous enchanted forest, through unicorn fields and bear pastures. We sang Brittney Spears to repel the bears with our peppered voices. Through thicket, wet brush, and muddy terrain, we savaged our way to the cabin – hauling about 20 pounds of kindling, sleeping bags, cookies and lots of hydration (wink wink)!

Drenched with dew, we arrived at the cabin, ready to settle in and call this place home for a night. We started a roaring fire thanks to a surplus of kindling supplied by our favorite dock hand, Kenny, and roasted up some sandwiches! As any lady in the woods would do, we popped open some aged Alaskan Ale and pondered how real mountain women, whilst hiking, should be savage: drinking brew, bleeding blood, and brawling bears. These are obvious and crucial characteristics to possess if you’ve spent any time in Alaska, duh!

So we drank the night away, listening to the fire crackle and the rain go pat pat pat on the tin roof above our heads. Conversing for hours, we watched the wick of the candle burn into nothing, as our voices trailed into a whisper, then deep slumber on our solid wooden bunks.

It’s such a surreal experience to surrender yourself to the raw beauty of the wilderness, and to let the peace and quiet settle deep inside your bones. It will change you, even if it’s just for that moment where you become one with your natural surrounding. There’s nothing better than to escape, even for a brief period of time, into the wild from which we were created.

Lake McDonald Fly By (taken on our way back from town - see "Surviving Town") - Photo by Lara Cleeland

A Nice Little Metaphore

A Direct Quote from Jaimie and Lara

BLTs at McDonald Lake

Lara: It seems that life works in seasons, and here we are at the end of another season, trying to figure out our next move, like in college when you have a big paper due the next day, and you haven't even started it yet

Jaimie: Like a 20 pager

Lara: And you have no idea where to start

Jaimie: Because you haven't even researched it yet

Lara: And now your about to settle in for an all nighter

Jaimie: So you better drive down to the gas station to get a giant cup of coffee

Lara: Or better yet a Four Loco because you know this paper is going to suck

Jaimie: God, I hope my life is better than my college papers

Surviving Town

By: Jaimie Gleissner

Tunes: “All These Things That I've Done” - The Killers

One great thing about seasonal work is that it can open doors for you to live in remote locations, both domestic and internationally. The main drawback to living off the beaten path is that, more often than not, technology will be limited and town trips few and far between. That said, it's extremely important to make the most of your time in civilization. Since our season started at Yes Bay (a remote Alaskan fishing lodge), Lara and I have managed to get into town once, so we came up with a few pointers to help you make the most of your time away from the great outdoors.

First of all, have a plan of attack, but remember when you sit down at the bar for round one, your plans will probably change. Make sure you give yourself enough time to run any important errands. In fact, you might want to run those errands before you decide to do anything that might cloud your judgment. Should you allow fun to take precedence over necessities, you'll end up in McDonald's with a backpack of booze and no second chance to get back to town. Remember, it's all fun and games until you run out of deodorant half way through the season.

Whatever you do, know where your friends are and how to get a hold of them should you become separated. After months of being cut off from the real world, you're apt to forget somethings about it (social cues, currency, cell phones, etc.), so it's crucial that you keep track of your travel companions. As I stumbled through Safeway trying to locate my roommate, I couldn't help but think how great it would be if she had a working cell phone. Maybe then I wouldn't have lost her twice in a 5 minute span. Get the phone numbers of coworkers who are also in town, and be ready to call them when it's time to meet up. Even if you can't stand the people you went into town with, you'll be grateful to see a familiar face in a sea of strangers.

Keeping track of time is the single most important thing you can do while visiting civilization. If the group has to wait for you to show up at the designated meeting place, there will be repercussions. Punctuality makes for a more pleasant trip back to work and a greeting from a jovial boss once you return. Don't let your tardiness be something that could negatively affect your job.

And whatever you do never, NEVER, fart on the float plane!!!

Why Seasonal?

By: Lara Cleeland


Anyone can have what it takes to free oneself from the binding routine of a standard lifestyle: working a steady job, paying a housing lease, and owning a car. Being stuck in the confinement of the “American dream” can become boring; escape is the only alternative, and this can be done through seasonal work.

 I’ve perfected the art of being a true nomad, or as some might say, a traveling gypsy. I’ve run from the idea of settlement since I was still in high school. Though, I’ve never figured out if I was running away from boredom, or if I was searching for excitement. I guess in the end, the outcome is the same: Always in need of constant change, never feeling content. Either way, the simple fact remains that I struggle with the idea of being still. 
 
Seasonal work has helped to me to find reasoning and justification for my endless spree for adventure. I recommend it to all that are willing to give up the knowledge of what is coming next and trade that in for the unknown certainty of moving to a place unexplored in your rehearsed daily lifestyle. Rebel against the familiar and step into the realm of constant change. If you don’t like it, it’s only one season; there will be many more to figure out what you really want to do. Just take the first step, and see where the future will take you… I guarantee you won’t regret it.

Bottle Rocket Rex

By: Jaimie Gleissner

Traveling Tunes: “Goldensole” - Dirty Sweet

Taking up residency at your place of employment has a way of making you feel as though you're always at work. An effective way to counteract this feeling is to pull pranks on unsuspecting /suspecting coworkers. Spontaneous or premeditate, pranks provide comic relief to all those participating and observing. Granted the target may not see the humor, I've found the most prankable people have been warned about the prank ahead of time. They lack faith that the prankster will follow through on the threat, so the joke ends up on them.

As soon as Nicky uttered those words, I knew we were going to execute our plan. Should her brother fail to make good on delivering a kitten, we were going to dye his dog. Rexy was a Jack Russel terrier. He stood about a foot high, was all white, and had a natural mo-hawk. Since the season started, Nicky and I had been joking about dying him, so after reaching our drink limit for the night, Nicky called her brother to inquire about her the cat. When he informed her she wouldn't get a cat soon, she told him that he should be worried about Rex and (with encouragement from one of the fishing guides) got the dye ready.

Our weapons of choice: a paste made from fruit punch (red drank) mix, blue food dye, and rubber gloves. Nicky restrained Rexy as I gloved up for the procedure. Despite a little struggling at first, he began to relax as I worked the dye into his fur. I like to think that Rex enjoyed both the attention and looking like a bomb-pop. Not to mention, the fruit punch made him smell awesome.

Pictures were taken, and everyone enjoyed the new, more patriotic, Freedom Rex. Unfortunately, due to lack of permanence, Nicky rinsed the dog that evening leaving only a shadow of the splendor that was Bottle Rocket Rexy. There was, however, enough color leftover to catch the owners eye. The next day Nicky and I braced ourselves for the repercussions of our actions. Considering the visible rage on her brother's face and the swear words he mumbled at lunch, I thought he took everything quite well. I'd never try it again (mostly because I'm pretty sure I'd be cut up and thrown in the crab pots – plus Rex would look better covered in glitter with a unicorn horn on his head), but it was, hands down, the best prank of the summer.

  

Getting Started

Traveling Tunes: Ray LaMontagne - “Devil's in the Jukebox”

At 18, I had figured out my life plan: go to college, become a CPA, live happily ever after. Shortly after classes began (and I started failing calculus), I realized accounting might not be my forte. An interest in coaching made me decide to become an English teacher only for me to change my mind a short time later, which is how I ended up in Alaska. 

Since leaving Illinois, I've developed a love for travel and a simplistic lifestyle. I alternate between living at work with free room and board and my car. In between gigs I've successfully managed to crash on various couches across the country. Working as a seasonal professional has allowed me to meet people from all walks of life leaving me with great friends and a lot of stories. 

A lesson I've learned from being professionally homeless: if you're willing to make some sacrifices, like having a permanent mailing address, you can get yourself anywhere you want to go. Many of my coworkers and close friends have shared this lesson with me, so my cohorts and I decided to share our experiences and offer our advice to anyone who is looking for a seasonal job or just trying to take a vacation on a low budget. You can find out more about us by checking out our Contributors page. We'll try our best to post weekly and look forward to your comments!

-Jaimie