Packing Up and Looking Ahead - Reflections of a Lifelong Alaskan

As I sit here amidst boxes and memories, preparing to leave the only place I've called home - Alaska - I find myself reflecting deeply on the journey that has led me to this pivotal moment. For those who have followed Wayward & Wild, you know that this journey isn't just about personal change; it's about the evolution of a dream that started with a soap shop and has grown into vision of holistic living and sustainable homesteading. Join me as I unpack emotions, challenges, and gratitude that come with leaving Alaska and looking ahead to our future in Michigan, all while packing literal boxes. 

Leaving Alaska isn't just a physical move; it's a departure from a landscape that has shaped me in profound ways. Growing up in the small town of Skagway, surrounded by towering mountains and vast wilderness, instilled in me a deep love for nature and a resilient spirit. As a child, I roamed these wild lands, camping under starlit skies and forging bonds with our family rescue dogs that would later inspire my journey into soap making and dog mushing. Now, as I pack up the remnants of my Alaskan life, I grapple with the bittersweet realization that while Alaska will always be a part of me, my path now leads elsewhere. 

Skagway isn't just a town; it's a community that has supported me from childhood through to adulthood, both as local feral child and now as a business owner. From the very first market we attended as Wayward & Wild, Skagway has been more than a backdrop-it's been a source of inspiration and resilience. I am deeply grateful for the friendships made, the lessons learned, and the unwavering support that has propelled my soap shop from a dream into a thriving business. To Skagway, thank you for being my home and my foundation. 

Michigan beckons with promises of new beginnings and opportunities for Wayward & Wild. Inspired by the natural beauty and vibrant community spirit reminiscent of Alaska, we look forward to establishing roots in this new landscape. Our move isn't just about geography; it's about expanding our vision of holistic homesteading and sustainable living. In Michigan, we aim to grow our soap shop into a hub of creativity and sustainability, where each product reflects our commitment to quality, nature-inspired ingredients and artisan craftsmanship. 

From its humble beginnings as a small soap business in Alaska to the vision of Wayward & Wild Homestead in Michigan, our journey has been one of growth, learning, and transformation. The soap shop remains at the heart of everything we do, offering handcrafted soaps infused with the wilds that shaped me. As we prepare for this next chapter, we invite you to continue following our story, exploring our products, and join us on the adventure towards a more fulfilling way of life.

Sealing the last box, I am preparing to bid farewell to Alaska, but I will carry my memories with me. To our loyal customers, supporters, and fellow dreamers - thank you for being a part of our Wayward & Wild family. Your encouragement fuels our passion and propels us forward. You can subscribe to our blog for bi-monthly updates on our move and pathway to holistic homesteading. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay connected and be the first to know about new product launches, special offers, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of life at Wayward & Wild Homestead.