Weekly Reflections - Week 5

So the post I did late last night wasn't a reflections post. I just wanted to give everyone an update.

So far, things are going well. It's weird that there's no familiar part of my life. That's been hard. I mean, my school's new, my house is new, my friends are new, and my village is new....at least new to me. There's not really one familiar thing to me.

At least Lola my cat is the same as ever. She's still full of energy and keeps to the same routines. After I shower, I lay down & she lays on me & cuddles. Daisy has found a new leash on life. Not only is she more playful and friendly to strangers (gasp!!), but she's more affectionate with me. Maybe she needs more reassurance, but I think she's thriving up here. They are both doing very well. I'm so grateful I brought them up with me. I would be miserable here without them. It helps me not feel homesick. Sure, I miss the people, but home is where my kitties are. When I used to go away, I'd miss my kitties. Sigh, at least being up here will help dispel the "crazy cat lady" myth....now you all know I'm a "crazy animal lady" with all the puppies & kitties around me.

Speaking of animals.....I still have yet to see any wild ones!! The crows I found out are actually ravens. Which makes me think of my brother Ethan...not only is that his favorite football team but edgar allen poe and all that (he's a big reader). So here's my list of wild animals I have seen here in Alaska:

*ravens
*ducks
*seagulls
*bugs

Yep, that's it. Gee, animals are so dangerous here in the bush....if you ever come across them!!! Where are the eagles??? The moose??? The bears??? The foxes???

One thing I have really loved about Alaska (besides the breathtaking natural beauty) is the people I've met. I have met some of the funniest people ever. There's one guy who gets my award for the funniest man I have ever met. He's in a different village but he makes me laugh so hard I cry....mostly during the inservices. I never know what he's going to say next. There's a lot of funny people around me here in Akiak, so I'm never far from a good laugh. Laughter makes life so much easier.

I guess I'm not too reflective today. My only real thoughts are that life is getting easier up here all the time. I have to buy my winter gear soon. I'll be walking to school in -30 degrees, so I have to get some good stuff! Here's my list so far:

*snow boots
*snow pants
*a winter parka
*a flash light that attaches to my head since it will be pitch black
*cleats (no, not for sports) since the road will be a sheet of ice
*goggles

I have hat's & two pairs of really good gloves. I also have something to put over your face to keep it warm under your parka. I really need to get started on getting this stuff together. Cold weather will be starting at the end of October. I see some shopping in my future!!