I take driving for granted and feel the need to remind people that safe and careful driving is a 24/7, 365-day activity. Please be vigilant. Late Friday night I rounded a curve and hit a small moose north of Anchor Point. I've been driving in Alaska 24 years and had few close calls with the wildlife or someone's pet. It was traumatic to me and I want to thank Scot, Justin and Courtney, Trooper Browning, an anonymous person who lives nearby, and Gary of Mud Bay Towing — you all were kind and considerate and helped me keep a sense of humor about the situation. I also really appreciate the countless people who stopped to be sure everyone was okay and offered to call for help if needed. So many of you had your own moose story and in that paradoxical way it was comforting to know "it could have been much worse."

I don't wish this on anyone and it can happen so fast even when you follow the rules. A friendly reminder folks: Don't forget to use your seat belts, have car insurance, and slow down — watch for moose. We were very lucky and that is not always the case. I never thought this would happen to me.

Thanks again everyone,

Kelly Behen