Note 6 - Investments Change in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Recorded in AOCI (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015	Dec. 31, 2014
Change In Unrealized Gains (Losses) Recorded In AOCI [Line Items]
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period, net of tax	$ 8,782	$ (22,573)	$ 13,650
Less reclassification adjustment for net (losses) gains included in net income (loss), net of tax	2,251	44,183	(1,039)
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Change In Unrealized Gains (Losses) Recorded In AOCI [Line Items]
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period, net of tax	8,822	(24,246)	4,531
Less reclassification adjustment for net (losses) gains included in net income (loss), net of tax	2,361	(764)	(1,039)
Net unrealized gains on investments	6,461	(23,482)	5,570
Equity securities
Change In Unrealized Gains (Losses) Recorded In AOCI [Line Items]
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period, net of tax	(40)	1,673	9,119
Less reclassification adjustment for net (losses) gains included in net income (loss), net of tax	(110)	44,947	0
Net unrealized gains on investments	$ 70	$ (43,274)	$ 9,119