Note 6 - Investments Change in Unrealized Gains (Losses) Recorded in AOCI (Details) - USD ($) $ in Thousands	12 Months Ended
	Dec. 31, 2017	Dec. 31, 2016	Dec. 31, 2015
Change In Unrealized Gains (Losses) Recorded In AOCI [Line Items]
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period, net of tax	$ 31,903	$ 8,782	$ (22,573)
Less reclassification adjustment for net (losses) gains included in net income (loss), net of tax	(2,642)	2,251	44,183
Fixed Maturities [Member]
Change In Unrealized Gains (Losses) Recorded In AOCI [Line Items]
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period, net of tax	32,147	8,822	(24,246)
Less reclassification adjustment for net (losses) gains included in net income (loss), net of tax	(2,556)	2,361	(764)
Net unrealized gains on investments	34,703	6,461	(23,482)
Equity securities
Change In Unrealized Gains (Losses) Recorded In AOCI [Line Items]
Unrealized holding gains (losses) arising during the period, net of tax	(244)	(40)	1,673
Less reclassification adjustment for net (losses) gains included in net income (loss), net of tax	(86)	(110)	44,947
Net unrealized gains on investments	$ (158)	$ 70	$ (43,274)