As I sat in the K-Bar, back in Gardiner, MT, with Brad and his entourage of delightful (the term is used glibly only in part) Yellowstone Association instructors, the man looked at me with a crooked smile. "You know, and no offense, but I was hoping you wouldn't get the job so you guys would have to come back here and hang around for a while."

I have never had anyone say that to me before. It felt... good. Good to know that Brad cares. Good to know that we have friends here. Good to know that we're welcome back. Good to know that we.... belong (?) somewhere in this world.