I made a trip 'outside' to Michigan/Ohio for my cousin Tim's wedding. It was great to see all my cousin's and family that I haven't seen in a very long time....probably since December of 2006. If only my brother could have made it. It was a quick trip, staying with my aunt & uncle in Michigan...their log house on the lake....for a few days before jet-setting down to Atlanta.
Upon arrival in Atlanta, I felt the humidity. Then I remembered that I didn't bring any deodorant as I have stopped wearing it! Thankfully, it was October and not August, although it still felt a bit on the warm side! What can I say, I now live in Alaska where it is dry and cooler. I stayed a few days with a friend near the old neighborhood and dropped in on neighbors and friends. Had my fix of chicken wings as I haven't enjoyed those since 2007 when I left that heat and humidity! I do hope that Dennis is feeling much better than when I left.
Spent a couple of nights with Bill & Rico, with limited time to visit. Nadia has really grown, she's such a cutie! You guys are doing a great job of raising her, keep up the good work! I also had the pleasure of spending six hours with my brother and his five children - at the mall. Did I say pleasure? Sometimes Alaska doesn't seem far enough away! ;) Just kidding...but spending six hours in a mall and the Bass Pro Shop isn't ideal....but it was great to see them all. While a quick trip, I tried to see as many people as possible...it was great to catch up with everyone.
Upon arrival into Anchorage, the pilot asked everyone to remain seated while the marine escort on board exited the plane to accompany the fallen soldier we carried home. I had seen him sitting in first class, in his dress uniform, as I walked to my seat....I wondered. While sitting on the plane and watching from my window, the reality of this war hit me. Seeing this soldier come home this way, it was quite emotional. And I think until you experience it, you can't know the feeling. The movie Taking Chance was recommended by a friend when I told him of my experience. I highly recommend renting this movie. It is an HBO film with Kevin Bacon.
In the meantime, check out my photos, Julie's on-line photo album. There are pictures from the wedding, Atlanta, a neighborhood moose visit and some winter photographs in Seward and the Eagle River Nature Center.
Well, it is snowing...lots! Yippee.... I ordered snowshoes which I'm headed out to pick-up. Wish me luck! I hope it goes better than my last skiing adventure!
