A Little Sunshine!

This past summer, when I realized that Alaska Airlines was having some great deals on tickets, I knew I had to go somewhere sometime, just to utilize such a good deal. (side note* you know you're a travel addict, when you plan a trip just cause the tickets are cheap) So, during the summer, I purchased a RT ticket to Los Angeles for the week of Thanksgiving. As the time got closer, I began second-guessing myself... afterall, it was my final semester of college, I was taking the most challenging course of my degree, was working too much and it was 2 weeks before the end of my semester, you know when all the big papers/projects are due. But it was well worth it- especially as I got to enjoy some wonderful sunshine!

I was hoping for a little warmer weather, but at least I got some sunny days! One morning in the Cali desert, it was a mere 9 degrees! One person told me that in the 20 years he had lived in that area, the coldest he had ever seen it was 6 degrees. 

While in the state, I hit the road and visited as many people as possible. Picked up my good friend Jen (our first time meeting in person, though we've been friends for 3+ years) and we road-tripped to Vegas, where we both have a brother. Spent Thanksgiving Day with my brother and his family, along with some of their friends. The next day, went down to the Strip with Jen and her family.... that was a, uh.... interesting night. And LONG night. But at least we made memories! 

Went back to Cali on Saturday to hang out with some awesome people! The Wilsons are some of the most fun-loving people I know! We had a great time trading stories about missions trips, being crazy with their three kids and eating great food. 

It may have been a very full week, but it was relaxing to not have to go to work or school for several days! course I had to hit the books hard when I returned, but everything was completed on time. And I am now a college graduate!! :D (just waiting on my diploma to arrive in the mail)  

Bachelor Degree- check!

Well, I did it. In a few weeks, my Bachelor diploma will arrive in the mail. 

It took a lot of blood, sweat and tears.... figuratively speaking at least. It was a ton of work including many late nights, long days, and mental stretching. Probably the hardest part of earning my degree was the fact that I worked a regular job (and sometimes 2 or 3 jobs) throughout the process. And as hard as it is to admit, I'm not as young as I once was. When I worked on my Associate degree just five years ago, I consistently stayed up to 1 o'clock in the morning doing homework. But this past year and half, that was a lot harder to do. There were nights I stayed up late for sure, but my body craved sleep way more than it did years ago. But nonetheless, I survived. Some semesters I felt that I had no life outside of school; even when I was working or driving, or trying to relax, my brain was already thinking of the next assignment. But its all over now! Praise the Lord, for his strength and grace that saw me through this process. 

Many people have asked me what's next...well for one, I plan on catching up on sleep. (though this week, that's not really happening, since I'm working nights, as well as days) I have been enjoying the Christmas season with my family and just relaxing for change. I've been able to read some books, of my own choosing, :) and work on some projects I've put off for a long time. As for what's next. Well, guess you'll just have to wait and see. I'm sure it'll be an adventure whatever happens.... :D

Here's a few random pictures from the past almost two years of school. These may represent some of the motivating factors that kept me persevering-

teaching my nephew about AK hockey :) 

Enjoying sunshine despite sub-zero temps

doing homework by oil lantern - no electricity for days

hosting friends breaks up those long nights of study

nothing like sushi and free dessert to renew the spirit

sunrise!

facetiming a very dear friend half a world away