A couple weeks ago I said goodbye to a friend. Not just any friend, but one who’s been there for me for years. Through the good times and bad, at home and abroad. When I first met this friend, I wasn’t quite sure how things would work out. But as soon as we left the store where we met, I knew we were headed off to some good adventures.

Like St. George Island in the Bering Sea.

Like Outdoor Adventures trips.

 

 

Like New Zealand.

Like Washington and Alberta.

Like Tutakoke Field Camp on the Yukon Kuskokwim River Delta.

Like Michigan State University.

Yes, we sure have seen some things. I really didn’t want to part ways after making so many good memories, but my friend just wasn’t quite holding up its end of our relationship. I needed someone who could better protect me from the world’s storms.

That day as I lost an old friend and said goodbye, I had the good fortune of making a new friend. Again, I wasn’t instantly convinced we’d hit it off. Who could replace my green Outdoor Research jacket? Well, hopefully this black Outdoor Research jacket (with its upgraded material).

God bless Outdoor Research and their “Infinite Guarantee” for helping adventures happen. My new friend didn’t cost me any money!

As for you, green jacket, thanks for the memories. I wish I hadn’t had to completely let you go, but it’s probably for the best. Now I’m back in black.