Roof Goats & Blue Skies

It wouldn't be summer-time in Sister Bay without the goats on the roof top. Bittersweet this year. The evening that we arrived 'back' we passed the church in the curve and realized that we were literally driving into town at the very moment of Al Johnson's funeral. We could tell because everyone in the parking lot was dressed in their drindle uniform from his restaurant. Al Johnson's Scandanavian Restaurant with the goats eating the grass is a landmark known to all in the state. Al's generosity and big heart were also known across the state. It is sobering to know that he is no longer here in the village. He lived a full life, as reported by all the local papers. He leaves a legacy of goats, Swedish pancakes, lingonberries and a lifetime of supporting his employees and their families. Reading of his efforts behind-the-scenes over decades & decades was heart warming and affirming. Everytime we see the goats this summer I'll think of letting my little light shine. He set high standards for kindness. Inspiring.

For some reason the story that touched my heart the most, was of a villager reminicing on when he ran track back in high school. Al saw him trip in the cinders while he ran in his tennis shoes. Without seeking any sort of lime-light, he went out and bought the runner his first pair of cleats, something his family was not in a position to purchase. Observant. Taking action on an inequity that could be rectified. If we all stepped up to that plate where we are able, the world would be a better place. Al lived a hearty 84 years in Sister Bay. We are a better village because of his life long example of reaching out to others. The goats are a reminder of his penchant for fun, his ancestory and his love of our little village on the bay. Not everyone is heralded by the current and past govenors of the state at their passing. There were numerous reasons why this man brought statesman and track runners to tears. He made a difference in ways great and small.