Before going to Alaska, it was fun to be able to see my home state and visit friends and family. From Mt. St. Helens to the Pacific Ocean, I was grateful to have time to revisit my beautiful state.
I had a very nice sending off party the night before and a lunch the day of my departure to Anchorage. Since I had gotten choked up a few times before leaving WA, I thought for sure I'd break down at some point. But, I think my mind was somewhat exhausted and already trying to think of the positive aspects of my adventure, so I really didn't cry. (A little heartless, I know!)
After four hours, I arrived in a very wet city with a population roughly half the entire state population (which Alaska's entire state population is really only just over 600,000 people). While waiting for my principal to pick me up (I had no idea what she looked like, what she was driving, etc.) I was studying the drivers who pulled into the arrival area of the airport. Most had SUVs, trucks, or Jeeps. One-third had dogs as passengers. Weather is, and has been, similar to typical Pacific Northwest rain which I'm very used to. However, it is interesting to have full daylight after 10pm.
I will summarize my experience so far. All of the people in the district, hotel, bank, and Wal-Mart are all very open, welcoming, speaking slowly and casually, yet quick to help or even hug. I'm feeling very welcome and at ease in all these processes. I did wake up a total of 8 times at night due to the NightEbefore-Christmas-Excitement Syndrome. But, 8 cups of coffee kept me awake through lecture-type curriculum/technology/Professional Learning Community sessions non-stop from 7am-7pm. All of us were exhausted and tired after all the excitement, plus a hurried shopping trip tonight. A dip in the little pool and a hot shower was nice tonight. And hopefully I'll add a good night's sleep as my cherry on top.
So far, I've heard some big news about the village. There IS a restaurant that is new there. Very exciting news for an isolated village. I've heard many good and bad things (info about school supplies, school building, classroom, internet connection, food costs, shipping costs, residency cards, etc.) that I didn't know. But, it's to be expected.
And.... I will warn you. These people seem very genuine, compassionate, and tough. I'm beginning to think maybe one year will be just enough to hook a person. Uh oh! :) We'll see what happens.
I miss everyone already just thinking of that. More on my adventure soon!
