My Italian Family

 About six months ago, I met this crazy Italian family- in Bulgaria no less. It didn't take long for me to love them all.... not sure how they feel about me, ha! But for better or worse, they're stuck with me now. :) Besides my family had already claimed them as family, long before I met them face to face. It was nice to finally get to know them all in person, as I had heard all their names countless times from my family; we had even emailed quite a bit and I talked to them on the phone once or twice. 

After only a few days, it was like we had always known each other... and the adventures began. We played trampoline soccer, worked crossword puzzles, built sand tunnels & castles, ate uh... interesting chocolate at church, and of course... climbed the Varna monument- that my friends, is a story all in itself. My time with them was vastly too short.

building castles and tunnels

by the Black Sea

on the Varna monument

first week with these crazy Italians

So.... after a conversation about our separate travels back to the States, we realized that we flew back in the same US city just a day apart! Not sure who first suggested we meet up again in the States, but that's what we did! And because we did, I got to meet another great family in NJ! Glad the Jersians were okay with a strange girl tagging along with the Italians and bombarding their house! 

While in NJ, I got to swim in a creek for only the 2nd time in my life! Hey, when you're from Alaska, its not a normal summer event. Our creeks are still FREEZING cold even in July! But I got to swim and swing off a rope into the water (a first for me! and I had huge bruises to prove it), kayak (another first) and overall have fun in the warm water. Those couple of days in NJ also included a trip to a National Cemetery on Memorial Day, a birthday party and latenight shenanigans. 

Well, time went on, I came home to Alaska and the Italians began their long journey around the US. Remember that baseball game I flew to Chicago for? Yep, that was the same family. Another awesome (crazy) adventure. 

And then.... last month, I flew down and met up with the Italians once again. This time on the Western side of the US. We drove/explored parts of Utah, Idaho, Oregon and Washington, having fun along the way. We played lots of Uno, Assassin (style of tag), basketball, football, crawled into an mini castle in an awesome Grandpa/Pastor's house and ran through sprinklers in the dark, all bringing volumes of laughter.

scouting out some caves

Snake River - too close to the edge? 

intense Uno game in the back of the Limo

I love families who I can be friends with both the parents and the children. Though sometimes its a bit nebulous as to where I belong exactly.... while in WA, we went to a family's house for dinner. The host announced dinner was ready and then said, "okay, the kids are outside on the patio, the adults in the livingroom and the teens are wherever they want." I got asked which group I belonged in... and frankly sometimes I don't know! :D

Roadtripping in the South

Roadtripping is one of my favorite ways to travel in the US. I flew into Pensacola mid-March and after a couple of days visiting friends, my dear friend Whit and I set off for a long weekend roadtrip! We had gorgeous weather the entire time and it was a blast getting to spend so much time with her. We headed north out of Milton, FL Thursday afternoon and drove almost the entire height of Alabama. Our final stop for the night was Huntsville, AL. We were getting close to our stop for the night and Whit asked me the names of the people we were staying with. When I told her, I mentioned that we had never actually met before. :D She was a little anxious and intrigued by that bit of information.... but it's not the first time for me! hehe, besides, I knew the family of the people we were staying with, and of course it was totally fine. Our hosts were incredibly amazing! And their 3 kiddos were a blast. We fell in love with them and I think they returned the affection. 

our Huntsville hosts' kiddos 

 The next day we spent half the day exploring the Space and Rocket Museum- which was a blast! (haha pun intended) Space exploration isn't totally my thing, but it really is fascinating. We watched a couple imax movies which were intriguing. And tried out the Helicopter and Hummer simulations.... don't ask about who can't fly a helicopter.... haha. 

when someone offers to take your picture and doesn't get the whole rocket in. :/ 

That evening, we grabbed something to eat (another new restaurant for Whit) in downtown Hunstville, then walked around a bit enjoying the city. It's a really nice area, at least what we saw of it. Then we went to the Havoc hockey game! It was super hero night, so the two teams were wearing Batman and Superman jerseys. Pretty epic, especially the intro. video. Two of the Havoc players are former Nanooks, so pretty awesome to watch them playing in the pros. It was a good game. On the way home, we took an unintentional detour... haha Driving in the dark in a new area isn't always the easiest. 

The next day, we set off for Scottsboro, AL where the epic Unclaimed Baggage store is. Supposedly, it is the only place in the world that buys unclaimed luggage from airlines and sells it to the general public. The building is jam-packed full of all kinds of items. It would take a couple days to fully look through everything for treasures. I only bought a couple books, but it would be fun to go back through to take my time looking. 

Then it was on to Chattanooga, TN. We explored part of downtown, just walking around, enjoying the sunshine. Then drove up Lookout Mountain for a view of the city. While up there, we read about the Civil War battle that took place on that hill and walked around the old buildings still from that era. 

on top of Lookout Mountain

Road trips are so much fun when you have great company! Thanks, Whit, for a great week and memories made!

Camping + Our Men

While in the states earlier this summer, I had the privilege to go camping with some of my most awesome friends. Took us forever to decide on where to go, but didn't really matter, since we just wanted to hang out together. Camping in the States is different than here in Alaska. Here you can pretty much go anywhere and set up a tent. Finally got to a campsite and alas, it wasn't as remote as we had hoped for. We were near a road, though actually it was the more private site in the area. We went behind the actual site to set up our tent. 

Our tent story is a good one also.... its all about who you know. ;) When we first began talking about this camping trip, I told my two friends, I wouldn't be able to bring any camping supplies, as I was flying to the States and didn't want to lug that stuff around. Both of them have plenty, so they would supply what we needed.... somehow there was miscommunication. When we finally got all together, we discovered each of them had thought the other was bringing the tent! Now, I don't mind sleeping under the stars (though I wouldn't do it here in AK cause I would die from mosquito exposure), but a tent surely would be nice. Down there they have lots more insects.... spiders, ticks, etc. 

Anyway, we were at church the day before our grand camping expedition and I was talking to a family, who knows people here in Alaska and I mentioned our lack of a tent. Well, they let us borrow a tent! And it was plenty big enough for all 3 of us, plus our bags. Problem solved! 

We only camped out two nights, but it was fun just to sit around the fire talking long into the night with some amazing, godly people. I cooked most of the meals and at times even surprised myself at how well they turned out. :) The second day out, we went for a hike through the hills and forests. Nothing like Alaska of course, but still pretty. I really like huge trees (something we lack here). And then we sat next to a small pond and soaked up some sun! 

Our wet wood campfire. :) 

After the camping trip, we went into town for the annual WV conference. This year's group was awesome; again got to see people I haven't seen in a while and meet others that I've only heard of or spoken to via phone or email. Always a blessing to be around so many people who love the Lord and want to be involved in Bible Translation worldwide. 

One day we headed into town to walk around and enjoy friend's company. I was looking through pictures to include with this post and randomly selected several. After I uploaded them, I had to laugh.... the ones I had chosen were of three of us girls with "random guys!" Not sure if this has anything to do with the types of guys we actually like... haha. 

First up is the hardworking, dwarf man... Guess C likes 'em short. At least she didn't chose the pig behind her. 

Then there's me with Honest Abe. Tall, honest guys... I could go for that. Though I prefer one who doesn't get assassinated. 

And finally, LL with the easy-going, happy guy! She does like to have fun and laugh, so good choice. 

Beach Wedding!

I've always heard how beautiful the Pensacola Beach is and I finally got to experience it for myself. It was quite pretty. Especially since I was there at sunset. The only thing was - it was incredibly windy! Like REALLY windy! Course I had worn my hair down, because I thought it would look nice for the wedding. Yeah, bad idea. I had a mop of curls billowing around my head like a Cumulonimbus cloud. 

Pensacola White Sand Beaches

Of course, it was a beautiful wedding, because it was two amazing people joining together for life in the sight of God, family and friends. I've known the bride for almost 20 years and the groom for the past 10 years. You know what makes me feel old? -is the fact that I've taught them both! I have great memories of sitting around the living room coffee table working on ninth grade Algebra with Ang. And Norman, ha! a great student, when he wasn't drawing cartoons in his math notebook. :) 

They have both grown into wonderful, godly adults and our relationship has changed from tutor/student to friend/friend. Ang has been my Canadian sister ever since I lived with their family years ago. So, there wasn't anything to keep me from being there on their special day!

beautiful bride, right before the ceremony

Like I said, the wind was crazy. Ang ended up ditching her veil, cause it just wildly blew all over the place. And you could barely hear them say their vows, but it was still beautiful! And an excellent testimony to the lost family and friends who attended. God was honored.

I really enjoyed getting to spend so much time with the extended family. Especially all the granddaughters! I had a blast hanging out with all the girls. And of course, it's always good to see my Canadian parents. :) I love having family all around the world. Seeing good friends come from various locations in the world to gather together makes me long for heaven! Can't wait to be with my Saviour and for those I love to be all in one place. 

with the cousins

Had to take a picture of course with the other curly-haired girl! :) We have to stick together you know. Controlling these curls is a battle (one I lose quite frequently), so we have be friends. This one is rambunctious little girl! haha, just the kind I love being around.  

curly-hair friends

Friends! and Florida

Last month I spent a week in Florida. I went down for a good friend's (my Canadian family) wedding, but got to spend most nights at my awesome friend, Whitnie's house. We had a marvelous time together: drinking coffee, late night talking and praying, eating awesome food, laughing and taking pictures. She's been a marvelous friend over the past six years I've known her. I was sad when she moved out of Alaska last summer, but it's one friendship that has stayed strong across the miles. 

Whitnie was able to get a day off work while I was there, so we set out for a day adventure in Mobile, AL. First on our list of places to see was the U.S.S. Alabama, a battleship used in the Pacific during World War II. We skipped the guided/numbered tours and just set out to explore the ship ourselves. We wandered around finding all kinds of nooks and rooms with cool stuff in it. It was pretty amazing. It was hot that day and I was getting dehydrated, so we didn't stick around to explore the submarine, but next time we will! 

love the USA!

thanks to the random guy who took our picture

Outside the entrance was this giant, mock shell that I just had to hug. I did get something all over my arm and shirt because of it. :( but it still needed that hug. Haha. There was also a big bell in the front of the building. Not sure if you were supposed to or not, but they did leave the metal ringer thing inside it..... so yes I rang the bell. :) 

And Whitnie rang the bell too! Love her expression below. :D It was a pretty epic day. After the Alabama, we wandered around downtown Mobile, where we met a couple from Austria. We chatted with them for a few minutes, during which I invited them to Alaska and they invited me to Austria. :) Then we went to a small cafe for shwarma and kebabs! It was Whitnie's first Mediterranean food. It was pretty tasty! Tho' I have to say the falafel I can get here in Alaska is way better! 

Good Morning Denver!

Welcome to Denver! 

I had the chance to fly down to Denver for a few days, so I jumped at it! I really don't how to explain my fascination with traveling, airports, etc. I sit in an airport and I just LOVE it. Even with all the chaos, craziness, lost luggage, delayed flights, etc, I still can't seem to get enough of it. 

I arrived in Denver just in time to catch the sunrise Thursday morning. I have to say Colorado is similar to Alaska in the fact that they have beautiful skies - huge clouds set against high mountains, with lots of gorgeous sunrises and sunsets. I love clouds, so I enjoyed seeing the Colorado skies! 

Sun rises over Denver

One thing I was really looking forward to in Denver was the chance to eat more ethnic food! Here in Fairbanks, we have lots of Thai, Chinese and Korean food places.... but we lack some of the best! I like Mediterranean food and some Indian foods and sadly, we don't have much in that department. Thursday for lunch I ate at the Yak and Yeti Restaurant! It was a buffet, so I was able to choose a good variety of Indian, Tibetan and Nepali foods. Yum! And on Friday, I had Shwarma. mmm mmm

@ Yak & Yeti 

like my name correction? :) 

I stopped off in Colorado Springs for almost a whole day. Didn't think I'd get to see Lance this time around; he's a senior this year at the Airforce Academy and is very busy. But he texted me that morning and we were able to meet up for a couple hours that afternoon. I got my "real" tour of the campus! Last time I was there, it was in the evening and everything was closed for the day. The Chapel is impressive architecturally! 

Airforce Academy Chapel

The second half of my stay in Colorado I went north of Denver to see some dear friends! I attended Judah and Heather's wedding two years ago and hadn't seen them since. I was able to spend some great time with them, along with meeting their new little man, Jude! 

I taught Judah when he was a freshman in high school; I lived with his family in Mongolia for a winter... that was a great year! :) It was pretty funny when he introduced me to some of his friends and he told them I was his teacher when he was fourteen. They all kinda looked at me, like "how is that possible?" Judah and I look about the same age, so it takes some people by surprise. :) 

baby Jude

A first for me this past weekend was running (okay, walking) a 5k. I've always wanted to run one, but I'm not there yet... But I did walk it with Heather and Jude. It was great to fellowship with Heather while getting some exercise. It was killer hot that morning, the sun was intense! 

after the 5k

It was a good, restful weekend. I am thankful I got a short break.... especially since I'm working nights the next few weeks (along with my normal work). 

Travel and Grace

This past week I flew down to Indianoplis for a conference. My first layover was in Seattle. I had a couple hours, so was stretching my legs and decided to get some coffee. Stopped at Seattle's Best Coffee - the guy working at the counter asked if he I worked at the airport. "uh no." He said I looked familiar.... maybe I've been through Seattle Airport too many times if a guy who works there recognizes me. haha

Took me 12 hours to get from Fairbanks to Indy - 2 layovers. But was excited to get there. Stayed with my awesome friend, LL! We had a great couple days together..... we'll just leave it at that and not go into all the craziness of late nights.... and ping-pong..... and etc. ;) 

picture dedicated to Michael C. :p

having fun

The conference I was invited to and attended was the 2nd Annual WorldView Ministries conference. I'm still somewhat shocked that I got an invitation, but so glad I did!! There were about 45 of us in attendance; about half of whom I already knew. A few I hadn't see in 6 years! It was an incredible, refreshing couple days of being among other believers who have a passion and vision for Bible Translation! Wow! We were encouraged and challenged by our two guest speakers and also the presentations of the various ongoing and upcoming translation projects. 

It was a huge blessing to be among such dedicated people for those few days. Thank You, Lord! 

friends - gotta love the tie-dye 

At the end of my trip, I decided to tack on a visit to some friends in Illinois. I was somewhat uncertain how my visit would go, but God is good. After all God has been teaching me this past winter about His abundant, merciful Grace, it was wonderful to see it displayed in another's life. Another person who was hit even closer to home by the tragedy that I faced a few months ago and to hear him give praise to God in the midst of the trial. Wow. 

My heart is full from this past week. 

love these girls

laughing together :D

thankful for God's grace

Back in America!

Welcome Home. 

I do believe those are the sweetest words in the English language. I had been dreaming about going through Customs in Seattle and how the customs agent would say that to me... Alas! He did not. He only said "have a good day." I was mighty disappointed, but several good friends made up for it when I arrived in Texas later that day. 

day I left Asia

So, yes I am back in America. I landed last Tuesday in Seattle where I immediately experienced reverse culture shock. It's amazing how much you take for granted, until you leave for a length of time and then come back.... One of the first things I noticed was the friendly people! I had some baggage guys joking around with me when I dropped my bag back off. Complete strangers and we were laughing together. Being able to understand everything going on around me was a little confusing honestly. Wasn't able to tune out all the conversations like I had been when it was just jibberish to me. 

 The amount of white people surrounding me was a little hard to get used to. And NO ONE stared at me when I walked by! that was kinda nice. :) 

Dropped down to Texas for a couple of days and saw some amazing friends! A few of them I had seen during my Asia Adventures. But we gathered together with some other friends and had 2 days of laughter, stories, late nights, food and games. Jet lag hit me hard this time and with being so busy, up so late, etc, that a week and a half later I'm still trying to recover from it. I've had a few nights when I didn't sleep at all. Because of the sleeplessness, I've also been battling headaches. But honestly, those few days with godly friends was what I needed and wouldn't have traded them for sleep filled nights. 

God is good.

amazing friends!

  

1st BBQ back in America