Signs of Spring?

The Balmoral wintered in the Caribbean

Although temps remain in the thirties and the snow piles linger, there are a few signs of spring in Kodiak. No, not the heads of crocuses, but the return of the M/V Tustumena and a cruise ship, the Balmoral. The Wisconsin-built "Trusty 'Tusty," Kodiak's regular ferry, spent the winter in Portland for an overhaul and steamed into Pier 1 this morning. Meanwhile, over at Pier 2, the Balmoral cruise ship released a few dozen umbrella-toting visitors on the shores of Kodiak. It's funny how an umbrella sticks out here in Kodiak, locals simply don't carry them. Those of us staying in port, however, will have to keep the raincoats out. The weather forecast is calling for several more days of rain.

The "Trsuty Tusty" at Pier 1 in greener days