Ever since I read the book Tuesdays with Morrie (recommended by my favorite teacher growing up, Mr. Kelly), I’ve been fascinated by the ability to learn about different ways of living and learning from other people. I have always found it such a gift to be able to share time and memories with other people and so grateful for all the amazing quality time we’ve gotten to spend together. Some of crew were new to me, so naturally, I asked a lot of questions.
I decided I would ask each crew member on this journey the same one question, and I have really enjoyed the answers so I thought I would share them here. Sort of an ode and thank you to each crew that helped Dogbark complete her 2024 NW Passage journey this year! Displayed in appearance when they embarked on the boat.
If you had one piece of life advice to give, what would it be?
(Embarked: Sitka, Alaska – Disembarked: St. Johns, Newfoundland, Canada – 7,000nm)
“Always go for and do what makes you happy, despite what other people think. Don’t think about them.”
(Embarked: Sitka, Alaska – Disembarked: St. Johns, Newfoundland, Canada – 7,000nm)
“Life is always going to have hard moments. Do the best you can and roll with it. No matter how hard things are, someone else always has it worse than you.”
Sandy Lam – Quartermaster, Scribe/Photographer, Dogbark Ambassador, Disco Queen, Resident Polar Bear, Ukelele Entertainer, and instigator of all dance parties.
(Embarked: Sitka, Alaska – Disembarked: St. Johns, Newfoundland, Canada – 7,000nm)
“You are far more capable than you think you are. Be humble, have courage, and be kind.”
Charlie Hill – Trusted Coast Guard Comrade, Delivery Co-Pilot, Bird Lookout
(Embarked: Sitka, Alaska – Disembarked: Nome, Alaska – 2,000 nm)
“If you’re married: Never go to bed angry. If you’re unmarried: Plan for the future, but live for today.”
Stacy Buell – Resident Boat Yoga Instructor, Dance Party Trooper, Fitness Guru
(Embarked: Kodiak, Alaska – Disembarked: Nome, Alaska -1,400 nm)
“Create your own environment. Do the things you can’t do later NOW.”
Rocky Regan – Boat Fixer of the Thingies, Fisherman in training, Radar Investigator
(Embarked: Kodiak, Alaska – Disembarked: Nome, Alaska -1,400 nm)
“No matter what, don’t give up, you can always figure it out.”
Graeme Esarey – NWP Skipper, Co-Owner of Dogbark, Resident Fisherman, Beluga Whisperer, All Knowing Leader & Dreamer of a better, kinder more connected and sustainable world.
(Embarked: Nome, Alaska – Disembarked: Twillingate, Newfoundland, Canada – 4,700 nm)
“Persistence. If everyone knew that they have the actual capability to do anything they want in life, people can accomplish some amazing things. Persistence goes a long way.”
Brian McVickers – Resident Drone Operator, Photographer, Gear Master, Hydration Station Leader (Embarked: Nome, Alaska – Disembarked: Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut, Canada – 2,900nm)
“Don’t wait to do the things you want to do. Find a way to do what you love.”
Rusty Lhamon – Navigation & Trip Spreadsheet Master, Weather and Ice Crystal Ball Interpreter, Whistling Master, everybody’s personal cheerleader
(Embarked: Utqiagvik, Alaska – Disembarked: Twillingate, Newfoundland, Canada – 4,000nm)
“If you want to do it, just do it! Your best lessons begin once you start.”
Eli Secor – Unofficial safety Officer, Pancake Master, Bow Dancer
(Embarked: Utqiagvik, Alaska – Disembarked: Pond Inlet, Canada – 2,000 nm)
“Whatever you do in life, take things head on and be honest. The only way out is through and neither result are absolutes.”
Sarah Mills – Bow Maiden, Crochet/Knitting Queen, Filson Model, Most Even-Keeled and Flexible Watchmate
(Embarked: Qikiqtarjuaq, Nunavut – Disembarked: St. John’s, Newfoundland – 1,400 nm)
“Try not to live with any regrets. Surround yourself with people that support your dreams and passions and understand what you need to fill your soul.”
Hopefully you enjoyed getting to know our crew a little better and can glean some wisdom from them.
A big big thank you to each and every crew member who helped make this journey happen for Dogbark! We couldn’t have done it without you.