Well, we now have a new home. It is smaller and a little older, but much more cozy and quiet. After many long sleepless nights (mostly impart to the constant dogs barking, racing snowmachines, and intoxicated community members) we decided to move across town. Ian did purchase a white noise maker and some ear plugs, but since the move, we have yet to take either out of their boxes. And, that satellite on our roof, yeah, it is only for aesthetic appeal.
Most importantly, though, I now have my own sewing room! This is by far my favorite part of the house, my very own sewing hide-away. Thanks to my friend, Amanda Feyes, back home I was even inspired to make my own curtains . So, the first project in my new room was putting together 6 new curtains. I have become a real Martha Stewart out here, guys!
The hardest part of the move (and moving is NEVER fun let me tell ya) was trying to find a place for our 500 lb treadmill. This thing was a beast to move. We had to recruit our good friend, Brett to help us maneuver it into the house; the only place besides our living room that it would fit was the spare bedroom. So, if any of you come to visit us you have two choices for sleeping 1) on the treadmill or 2) with the treadmill. No actually, I am kidding, we have a little place upstairs in my sewing room that could fit someone comfortably. You will just have to sign in for a time slot as I may be busy on my next sewing project....my good friend Laurie is expecting a little girl this August. Yeah Laurie!
As an added bonus, our little house is directly behind the clinic, shortening our work commute to about 25 steps. This will be especially nice in the winter when temperatures reach -50.....our shoulders are just now, 6 months later, healed from pull starting the quad all winter long.
It kind of feels like a little country vacation nestled in the woods with all the trees and wildlife. We have a family of moose that live next door, but they seem to be respectful of our designated quiet hours and most definitely do not have an alcohol problem.
Even in our new house, Ian has once again reclaimed his throne!
In other news, Aniak has successfully dodged yet another flood. In a way we were kind of sad that the river break up didn't come over the dike and flood. It would have been fun to see the Kuskokwim flow into our back yard. In any event, though, it was still fun to see all the ice crashing together as it hurriedly drifted onto the next village.
I know it may not appear to be all that thrilling and pretty dirty (which it is), but to be there watching and hearing the river moving is pretty dynamic. Sometimes the ice will rise 4-5 feet as its layers pile up.
This weekend we had some beautiful 60 degree weather so Ian and I took a long walk along the dike. About half way we ran into our good friend, Randy. This weekend we are going camping with him at his nearly finished cabin up river. He started building it last summer and assures us that soon it will be equipped with running water. For now, though, we will be roughing it in his wall tents (although those are actually pretty nice also).
Although the salmon runs will not start until next month, people have already been out boating. We have yet to go out unto the river, but next weekend that will all change as we head 25 miles up river to Randy's. This last picture was taken while on our walk. As you can see even the dogs are "winterized" here. Although it looks nice, the water is still only 35-40 degrees, kind of like a giant ice cube water bath. Ian continues to thrive at work. There have been a lot of changes in his department. Behavioral health continues to challenge and stimulate him. Fortunately, as he shares his learning with me I have found myself developing much deeper as well. His insight still amazes me and he continues to build trust with all those that he sees. I am really proud of him and all that he has accomplished here.
My job remains busy, also. I am back to being the only provider for several hundred miles. This can seem very daunting at times, but I really am developing a strong sense of confidence and peace. We did have a suicide two weeks ago. That is never easy, especially when I have to come onto the scene. The struggles are real here, but there are people who continue to retain hope.
One such person is Ayla. I have kind of adopted her as a little sister and have been doing weekly bible studies with her for the past couple of weeks. She is an exceptionally tender soul who really wants to live for God. At times when I start to feel overwhelmed she is a constant reminder of why I am really here and the purpose that I should have.
The other day she stopped by and gave us this heart shaped rock with a very sweet card. She said it reminded her of Ian and I and that she was glad we were here. It really was a tender blessing.
Next week Ian and I head back to Michigan for his niece, Chelsea's wedding, and then off to Scotland with my parents and brother Blake. Blake just finished graduate school with a Masters of Counseling, and this trip was a gift from my parents for all of his hard work. Not bad, huh?
Although I am proud of his accomplishments, watching him grow into this wonderfully, talented, sincere person really is the greatest joy. Although he will always be the "little brother" he really has become a man that I admire. Congrads again, Blake! And thanks for graduating....we are really excited about Scotland!
Happy Birthday to Ian and Happy BIRTHday to Dianne (after all, she is the one who actually did all the work on April 18, 1978)
I can honestly say that one of the best things about moving way out into the middle of nowhere is that I get to spend so much time with Ian. We really are together 24/7 between work, home, or play. Each day I look forward to our personalized two man "carpool" to work on the quad. Our routine doesn't change very much: I get on first, scooch back and forth with my rump to clear the frost from the seat, Ian then takes his running one legged leap onto the quad (somewhat like a cowboy would do), once on he adjusts his hat and goggles (I often wonder why this isn't done earlier), kicks it into first gear, and off we go!
The only real change of scenery on the way to work comes in the darkness of burying my face into the back of his hood (usually done to protect my face from the wind).
I know I would miss this if we ever leave.
Just the other night we were talking about how good of a decision it was to move out here. I know it has taught us both a lot about ourselves, renewed our walk with God, and most definitely strengthened our marriage.
This is Ian's birthday breakfast, his favorite pancakes. Today he can officially say he really is 34...for the last year he honestly forgot how old he was and thought he was 34, turning 35. After some quick math, though, we figured out that indeed he was younger than he thought!
Ian is an exceptional husband and his closeness with the Lord has been the greatest source of strength and encouragement that I have ever known. I attribute my falling back into love with Christ to him and will always be thankful that he continued to nurture me as I sought this more excellent way.
Here is a picture from Easter Sunday. We had a small sunrise service on the dike followed by a brunch at the church. Despite the coldness and wind the sunrise was just beautiful, a reminder that God indeed does have his hand here as well.
As a matter of fact, I was really encouraged later that day. So often our messages on Easter Sunday only focus on the death / resurrection and then for some reason just stop. Although this is important, I often leave church (as I did this past Sunday) thinking "and now what?" What does this mean for me now?
When I got home I was actually a little depressed! Go figure, on Easter Sunday!! So, I decided to just close my eyes and be with God a little. As I listened to my music I realized this: his death and resurrection is not the end of his story, it is the beginning to a new life.
You see, Jesus was special. He already knew and had experienced what was waiting for him on the other side. And, he came to show us the way to this truth, and how to have this ABUNDANT life……This is what the resurrection means, it is a means to a new and POWER filled life.
And he did all this to yes, forgive me of my sins, but ALSO (and I believe ultimately) to be a pattern for a new life. By his example he revealed to us a real power that can change and release us to REALLY live. For the hope set before him he endured…..the hope! Not the immediate removal of the pain, but the hope and the joy laid before him, the promise of being with the father. He is the resurrection of a story that was meant to continue.
So now what?.......This means that everyday can be the most fruitful day of my life. Being a Christian doesn’t mean that I am exempt from suffering, pain, misfortune, it means that my RESPONSE to it can be different….I have a power, a living joy, and a real hope set before me……..and the awesome thing is that nothing rivals this throne.
So, the real question isn't if I will someday cry out, "Lord, Lord" (Matthew 7:21). I know for certain that I will. The real question is if he will he know me or not. Have I allowed his power to change me or is my belief in his death and resurrection in vain? Instead of "show me the money" we should be screaming "show me the power!"
Is my salvation a means to an end or is it a way to experience the new life that Jesus the Christ came for? I I often think we make only heaven the goal of our salvation. But making this the pinnacle of our walk is dangerous …rather, the end should be the at-onement with the father and a life changing power filled existence. Even if "heaven" was in the streets of Calcutta, being a lover of God means that you would follow him anywhere because just being with him IS your heaven, the streets of gold are just an effect of the source. Heaven is where he is, not a place void of his presence.
So the salvation message is this: it is the power to save me from envy, jealously, anger, gossip, greed, etc and enable me to freely live right now in a constant state of love and joy, independent of anything the world says. It is a power that makes everyday a resurrection Sunday.
So let your hope rise anew each day as you look to Jesus the founder and perfecter of your faith and let his life be the beginning of your new chapter.........
Here is a video of the start to our journey back home.....
What a great week home! We left a very cold -38 degrees to find ourselves welcomed into a warm and sunny Michigan 75. Even though we spent almost 24 sleep deprived hours to find it, it was well worth the travel.
Still, the best part of our trip isn't only about just great weather, as a matter of fact, it doesn't even start or end with it.......our trip was all about our treasures.
Love, friendship, charity, kindness, and acceptance are just a few examples of the treasures that I found on this trip.
Our first treasure came in the form of four: Jon, my parents, and Niecko, Ian's nephew. Upon our arrival at Detroit airport we were embraced by love: my parents arms wrapped around me and the one- of-a- kind "skin so soft" aroma of Jon were a very real reminder of how deep it ran.
And, as I watched Niecko cling tightly to Ian I knew and felt just how blessed we really are.
To begin our weekend the Niecko's had a family dinner courtesy of Bri and her new husband, Tarek. I made this quilt for her and my new niece (who is expected in June). When I started sewing it I had no idea who it was for, then when Bri told us she was expecting a little girl I knew it had been for her all a long. I really had a great time putting this together, and was very excited to finally give it to her.
Although our time was short with them, it was really good to see her and to finally meet Malek their firstborn. They are an adorable family (especially since Bri manages to remain very fashionable despite being 7 months pregnant!) and I count them all as new treasures in my life.
Some of you may not know that Ian has an older brother, Scott. He and his family also joined us for our "Niecko" gathering. We really enjoy Scott with his sharp mind and witty humor. He also has a great family with two brilliant girls and a very sweet wife.
Here I am with my Niecko sisters, Bri and Orianna. Never having sisters of my own, their friendship and place in my life are most definitely counted as a treasure. Although Ian and I have only been married for 2 years (we just celebrated #2 on March 14) I immediately felt close to Bri and Orianna, like we had really been sisters all along.
Speaking of long lost brothers, here is Jay, Orianna's husband. He and Orianna have been together since the age of 14 so Jay has been a major figure in Ian's life. I really admire his patience and demeanor, you just gotta love Jay.
Evi and Niecko, Ian's niece and nephew (and mine too of course)......so different in personality, but still all love. Evi is quite the non-fiction reader and could very well end up being a scientist someday. She likes museums and often takes notes about the exhibits while there. I find her enthusiasm for knowledge a blessing and really enjoy watching her grow.
Niecko on the other hand is quite the lover. He is always good for a bear hug and never will you leave him feeling unloved or unappreciated. He is good for the ego...smile smile.
This is Orianna, Ian's older sister. She is probably the most thoughtful person that I know. She has a very sensitive spirit for others and would do anything for anyone. I really appreciate her presence in our life, and count not only her charity but her thoughtfulness as treasures as well.
But of course, non of the above would be possible without these two: Dianne and Jon. Papa Jon as I like to call him has a true calling on his life. Having had several near death experiences himself, I KNOW that he is here for a reason. His life reminds me of two books, "The Five People You Will Meet In Heaven" by Mitch Albom, and "The Giving Tree," because he blesses everyone that he touches in some way and never stops giving to others.
And, Dianne, who I am eternally grateful to for bringing me Ian (after all it was her doing that brought us together) is smart, hard working, and also very compassionate for others. I see so many of her wonderful qualities in her children and know that she is a real treasure to the Niecko family.
As a daughter, I understand the treasure of having a good mom. And it isn't just the learning to sew, mend, cook, or tend to children. It's about having a role model to look up to for the rest of your life. Seeing her tenderness played out, watching her console during painful and difficult times, and learning by her example how to unselfishly put your family. I sit here today counting their grace and mercy as real treasures.
I had a wonderful time with my dad while home. He now owns Silverbrook nursing home in Niles, Michigan and I was doubly blessed when asked to come and speak to the residents about Alaska.
I was thankful to find that he has some wonderful employees and residents with him there. You could tell that there was a spirit of community and love at Silverbrook, it felt very much like a home. I was able to speak to many of the residents, and I would have loved to spend more time hearing their stories.
They even donated blankets, crafts, beads, gloves, and hats to the people of Aniak. At an elders lunch we played bingo (also donated by the residents of Silverbrook) and gave their donations as prizes. They really enjoyed this and we had many laughs as we played. I would like to thank them again for their charity and thoughtfulness, you are among the treasures in my life.
Still, I would have to say the biggest blessing of the day was hearing all the compliments about my dad. It isn't often that I get to follow him to work and hear firsthand what others think of him. Needless to say, I was very proud of him that day.
Time and time again I heard from his employees and residents what a kind and thoughtful man he is. Several of the patients appreciated how he prayed with them, brought them coffee each morning, and did daily devotions. My dad maybe a treasure down here, but I know he has built a real treasure for himself in heaven.
One day we all took a walk to Thurston Woods Park in Sturgis. It was a beautiful sunny day and I really enjoyed being with everyone. Even Yedi, our new addition enjoyed her walk. Unfortunately my younger brother Blake couldn't make it home from South Carolina, but I know that he was with us in spirit.
This is Susie, my brother Jason's wife, and their girls, Micah and McClaine. Susie has been in my life since her and Jason started dating in High School. She really is a sister in all regards and I just love her so much. I really appreciate her love for God and for her sincerity with people. Her beauty on the inside radiates outside and she is a wonderful role model for her girls.
Jason is not only an excellent brother, but a wonderful dad. He has always been a treasure in my life. As a matter of fact I once wrote in my diary (almost 15 years ago) that he was my best friend. Regardless of his busy schedule, he will always make time to listen to you and offer good advice.
Meet McClaine. We like to call her Sassy, but she is truly sweet. Her and her older sister, Micah, went in front of the congregation Sunday at church and recited bible verses for their Mimi and Papa. I was so proud of them! They are precious treasures in my life and a constant reminder to keep the child like faith.
And big sister Micah is not only a voracious reader, but a good conversationalist as well. Sometimes I forget that she is only in 2nd grade. A niece and very much a friend, she is a shiny jewel in my treasure box.
I had to throw these pictures in here.....I won't say who won, only that it wasn't my husband or my dad. I guess that the "great white hope" of Aniak just couldn't compete with the original. But, I will say that all 3 of them did have some mad skills. I think, though, that Ian's giant beard may have clouded his vision of the net.
However, my "family" runs much deeper than blood, and my treasures are not only found there.
On Tuesday I made a trip to DayOne, my old workplace, and got a chance to catch up with many of my colleagues (unfortunately I didn't get a picture, but you can check out their website, dayonehealthcare.com if interested). They have so many good and thoughtful people working there, it makes me miss being around them. Even though the architecture of the clinic has changed, the smiles and warmth are the same. I count them all as important people in my life and in my development as a clinician. That day I was reminded of the 50+ treasures that I have in Battle Creek.
And Dr. Galonsky, you can thank me for that earlier plug next time....haha!
Speaking of friends, I was able to catch up with several. Amanda, probably my longest friend brought her two girls over to play. She really is an exceptional mother and friend. She just hasn't changed....still thoughtful, slow to anger, and kind. Through all the years, I am so very blessed that she has remained in my life, a real treasure.
These are Amanda's girls Mia and Olivia, with my niece McClaine.
Like her mother, Olivia, is quite an artist. She painted me this picture before I left. Thanks again, Oliva, I just love it!
Thankfully my two grad school buddies Jacklyn and Melissa took time out of their busy schedules to meet me at Panera for some dinner. It was so good to hear about their work, families, and life. Despite the distance, getting together again felt just like old times.
Ian and I also met up with some of his old college buddies for dinner. They made the long drive from Mt. Pleasant and Ann Arbor to see us. It was really good to have a time of fellowship with them and hear about how God is moving in their lives. This is John Paul, our godson, who we haven't seen in quite some time. His parents Dave and Tereza were one of the couples that came down to visit. Although we knew he was cute from Skype, seeing him in person only proved it.
And finally, before we left we stopped by Detroit and took our two friends, Rudy and Ashley out to lunch. We met them through Ian's mom and have felt a special connection with them ever since. Even though they have had some difficult times in life, they both remain positive and faithful to God. We really appreciate their efforts to persevere and count them as treasures in our life.
Ian's college friend, Terry also came and joined us. Terry might even be considering a move to Alaska next year! This was the first time that I met him, and I really enjoyed his cheerfulness.
So after all of this and all these pictures (thanks for making it this far in the blog!) what can I say?
MY TREASURE IS ALIVE! This was such a strong theme in my time home. Looking back I am so blessed. I know that no physical elements could ever compare with the experiences and spiritual connections that I have with my family and friends.
Although the dead material things may temporally give me happiness, the real living joy that lasts comes from above, within, and among community with others. Never again will I consider myself poor when I have all of this treasure surrounding me.
And although I am back in Aniak (here is a picture of the drive to the airport) I am left with a sweet aroma of my time back home......thanks to all of you who have enriched my life beyond compare.
