It is a lonely place, this Bed and Breakfast. Or at least it is this afternoon.
We just said goodbye to a young couple with their playful baby, Colby. Colby is well loved, eating the finest quality of foods for infants, receiving constant attention and kisses that reinforce social behavior, even getting regular visits for health care while traveling. His parents are doting, but stern when it comes to acting appropriately as guests in the B&B.
Colby has four feet. He was a joy as a guest (as were his humans) and his departure has left a hole in the hearts of the B&B hosts. It is quiet without the squeaking toys and the banter between Colby and the host dog, Lucas.
When guests like these grace one’s door, friendships are forged for the long haul. They promise to send post cards along the way as their head for Valdez and other parts of Alaska, then on to the lower 48 and a trek back to the East coast. They take with them wonderful photos of sea life and glaciers from Whittier and the day cruise there, and their album will help them tell tales to their family and friends. But it is the tales of Colby and Lucas that will stir the humans’ laughter and smiles, and will convey the true message that makes listeners wistful for their own Alaska adventure.
Mary M Rydesky is innkeeper at JarviHomestay and is a member of the Anchorage Alaska Bed & Breakfast Association. Lucas hold the equivalent role when it comes to canine visitors. The AABBA helps visitors locate inspected and approved B&Bs taking pets as one of its services. Call 907-272-5909 or visit online to select “pet friendly” or other amenities.