The summer of 2021 saw a full house at Crow Village as Lisa and David’s nephew, Sam, and his wife, Ilana, visited with a group of friends from across the country. Joining the crew from Atlanta were Samantha Lie Tjauw and Garrett Seiger—the latter becoming a local legend for his daily dips in the chilly Kuskokwim. From New York came Ilana’s high school friends Kelly, her husband Chris Lynch, and Bridget Maguire.

The trip was marked by a milestone moment: Kelly and Chris got engaged on Flattop Mountain following a hike recommended by Uncle Tom. Back at the village, the house remained lively with Aunt Thea, Luxia, and Hudson friend Anna, along with Olive, who quickly secured her spot as the group's favorite.

Highlights of the visit included net fishing with Dakota, water and driftwood runs led by Skipper Hunter, and the essential work of smoking and jarring freshly caught salmon. Between filleting salmon on the dock with Lisa and chopping "rotten cotton" with Storm, there was never a dull moment. The Fourth of July was a true standout, celebrated with moose brats, games, and unique wine selections from Lisa’s cellar.