Waterfalls, Tacos, and True Colors: Reflections from Alaska

colesjoholm
Jun 6
2 min read

A Month in Alaska 🌲🏳️‍🌈⛴️

I feel like the stars are aligning. ✨

Over the last 30 days in Alaska, I’ve had space—real space—not just miles on a map, but space in my mind to think, reflect, and breathe deeply. I’ve let the crisp Alaskan air fill my lungs as waterfalls cascade down evergreen-draped cliffs. I’ve sat quietly on park benches overlooking fog-shrouded bays, watching life slow down around me. I’ve rediscovered an outdoor version of myself—one that thrives on hikes, bike rides, and the kind of simplicity that comes from being fully present in nature.

It’s hard to believe it’s already been a few weeks since I last hugged my family. And yet this time away has been rich with connection: catching up with high school friends and former colleagues from Colorado, sharing laughs with my ever-expanding cruise ship family, and welcoming new faces into my orbit—people whose paths crossed mine in the most unexpected of ways.

And honestly? This post was brought to you by a halibut taco.

I know that sounds odd—but trust me, it was the best fish taco of my life. You could taste the care in every bite: perfectly crisp batter, the cleanest oil, tangy pickled jalapeños, fresh slaw, and an ice-cold Texas sweet tea that felt like a small miracle in a port town at the edge of the world. (If you’re in Hoonah, run—don’t walk—to Oso Gordito, 335 Harbor Dr.)

During this month, I’ve also seen glimpses of my former life. I’ve met people working long, relentless hours—seven days a week—who haven’t taken a true holiday in years. Others feel bound to lives that no longer fit: mortgages, careers, family expectations, or simply the weight of “shoulds.”

I recognize that life. I used to live it.

But five years later, I’m a different version of myself. This time in Alaska has given me a chance to honor that growth. It’s reminded me of why I chose this path—a life that looks unconventional to some, but one that feeds my soul every single day.

As I type this, Pat Benatar’s “True Colors” is playing in my head—on repeat. 🎵

So here in the middle of Pride Month, I’ll say it clearly:

I’m proud to be a gay man.

A solo traveler.

A mortgage lender.

A travel agent.

A photographer.

An author.

A travel writer.

This is who I am. And this is the life I’ve built.

Thank you, Alaska (and Canada). You gifted me unforgettable moments in:

Juneau. Tracy Arm Fjord. Skagway. Ketchikan. Prince Rupert, BC. Anchorage. Seward. Hubbard Glacier. Juneau (again). Skagway (again). Ketchikan (again). Vancouver.

And Vancouver? Wow. You exceeded every expectation. One night wasn’t nearly enough. You’ve officially made the short list of places I could see myself calling home someday. My eyes are wide open to new opportunities—and Vancouver might just be one I can’t say no to.

For now: onwards. Into the sun.

Cole

—from the cruise ship. 🚢