As per your request. . .

I didn't quite know what to think today when I got a phone call and on the other end of the line was barking. . . followed by laughing. . . and at last a voice telling me, "This is your uncle A." (That would be Alan, my mama's brother) He then says, "I'm barking for the new dog website." He says, "What about Erik? Do we get to see pictures of him too, or is it just going to be dogs?" Anyone who knows me, knows that most things, even my boyfriend, takes a backseat to my precious dogs. I'm not sure what that says about me, but I imagine you all have some analysis for me. In any case, Erik is quite a joy in my life too, and for those of you that don't know him, I'd like to introduce him to you here.

Erik and I met in March 2004 through a mutual friend here in Nome. He was visiting for Iditarod. In June 2004 he decided to move here and pursue a job and me :) Erik is from Seal Beach, California and has never lived (and barely travelled) outside of that sunny state. But, something about Alaska grabbed him and here he came. Over the last year and a half we have shared so many wonderful adventures and experiences. He is a kind, loving, and gentle person who I have truly enjoyed (most of the time). Erik has been working as a heavy equipment operator for as long as he's had a job and it was no different here. He has worked the past two summers for Nome Joint Utilities. But, with the harsh winter we face, there is little need for his skills during these months. So, Erik has decided to return to San Diego this winter. He departs out of Nome on November 16th and will be missed!

Here are a few pictures of he and I this past year. . . in Alaska and Costa Rica. So, Uncle Alan (and anyone else who may have been interested), there you go. This is Erik.