Re-Adjusting to the Midnight Sun

"Late" Spring and Midnight Sun Greetings to You All!

May 2015
10:30 p.m.

     During the past week, we have experienced an "explosion" of spring growth as all of the buds having finally returned to the trees and shrubs.  The color is an amazing green, that borders on being almost yellow.  Add to that the splashes of dark colored spruce trees, and it makes for an amazing backdrop!  We are very curious to see what happens during the shortened, but heightened, growing season here.

Moon Fall and Sunrise
5 a.m. May 14 2015

Ethan and I started our little family garden plots, and although the seed packets indicate 80-100 days until we see growth, we imagine it will be half that time or less - thanks to the midnight sun.  So far we have planted tomatoes, zucchini, green beans, cantaloupe, and watermelon.  Well, and Michael...he planted an avocado pit to try and grow an avocado tree! Too funny!  The midnight sun works wonders and creates havoc!  I cannot even begin to describe the effect that it is having upon all of us.  We had remembered how difficult it was to rest in the summers here, but we hadn't really remembered.  The pictures do not do the daylight justice.  Suffice it to say that we could sit outside and read a book without additional light at midnight now, then turn around and do it again at 5:30-6:00 a.m.  We will continue to gain daylight until June 21.  As a result, sleep is very elusive (except for Alex who could sleep through anything)!  Even little Ethan is having difficulty adjusting.  We all find ourselves awake at various intervals throughout the night with our bodies trying to convince us that it's time to rise -- even though it's only 2 or 3:00 a.m.  We think the adjustment may become the most difficult for Michael soon, as he will transition from day shift to midnight shift.  It may not really matter though, since we'll all be trying to sleep during some form of daylight!

Cantaloupe Seeds in the Ground

The new spring growth has also brought a plethora of wildlife back into our lives!  Moose abound EVERYWHERE now, and it has not been unusual for us to see them in the backyard and all along the roadways into town.  I'm trying to be careful, but I am so intrigued by the moose...they remind me of horses, except bigger.  Ethan laughs at me daily, especially when I say I'd love to try to "rope and ride one of those things!"  Earlier in the week we had a real "princess" come into the back yard.  She visits so regularly that Michael purchased 2 salt licks to try and get her to bed down in the backyard. That will be interesting in a few weeks when we have a puppy and a garden...!  At any rate, she came through as Ethan and I were preparing dinner.  We both went outside and stood on the deck and attempted to "call" her.  I don't like to brag, but Ethan and I are becoming master moose callers!  Well, he is at least.  He says I sound like a sick cow!  Every time he bellows, though, "all the single ladies" look his way! Ha ha! He actually got her to turn around and run back up into the yard.

Good thing we were on the deck!  Last time he did that he was on the front porch, and the moose cow across the street looked so intently at him that it scared him, and he ran back into the house!  Anyway...we started throwing carrots into the yard for "princess" -- supposedly moose like carrots.  Don't you believe it!  She dropped her nose, sniffed at those things, shook her head "no," snorted at them, and then walked off slowly into the woods as if she was too good for our carrots!  Can you imagine?  Our goal is to eventually hand feed a moose from the back deck!  If that encounter is any indication, we may be waiting awhile!

In addition to the moose, the migratory birds and mosquitoes have returned.  Since the sun doesn't seem to set, the birds' chirping is evident 24 hours a day.  We actually don't mind their songs though, and we are thankful to have the hearing capacity we do to enjoy them.  The only ones that may need to be wary are the woodpeckers.  Our house has evidence of previous summer visits, and Michael has given Ethan permission to use his bb gun to take care of any of those types of "pests."  So far, though, they are boring their holes in the trees.  The difference in variations of the bird species makes their sounds a welcome change from the crow calls and seagull noises.  That has been another odd feature of where we live.  You would think that in the mountains of Alaska seagulls would be the furthest specie of bird from here; yet because of our proximity to the Knik Arm they abound!

Skipping Rocks at Finger Lake

Noisy Goose Cafe

When not at home, we are able to view all of these lovely creatures at many of the lakes within Wasilla.  On the nicer days, that's where Ethan and I can be found after lessons.  Last week we traveled to Finger Lakes Recreation Area and spent the better part of the afternoon skipping rocks and watching the boats.  It's amazing to think that less than 4 weeks ago, that same lake had ice fishermen on it!  We also spent noontime on Thursday at the Wasilla Town Office Flagpole gathering with other citizens for the National Day of Prayer.  Sadly there were only about 10 of us, but what a neat experience.  We were able to meet other brothers and sisters in Christ.  One of the elders was a Native gentleman, and when he prayed, we couldn't help but weep.  He prayed for his kinsmen specifically, the Native tribes within Alaska, to come to a saving knowledge of Christ.  But it was his prayer for the millions of innocent lives touched by abortion and the addictions that plague the villages that truly moved Ethan and me.  The villages are so remote that addictions and abuse are allowed to run rampant with little intervention or assistance.  It was so sad to hear him describe that lifestyle.  After the prayer meeting, Ethan and I went to Palmer to check out another bucket list restaurant -- the Noisy Goose.  For those of you that have already visited...please, please, please accept our apologies.  The Noisy Goose is the best restaurant ever -- from food, to service, to decor, to $!!!!  Since we don't eat out often, it's taking us awhile to discover our faves.

We rounded out the week with a Mother's Day luncheon at church on Saturday, and Ethan and Alex were such troopers!  They happened to be the only men there, but they were gracious enough to play along with the "girly" games and crafts.  They were even gracious about the petite finger foods, dainty desserts, and homemade lemonade.  Alex helped me do a flower pot craft, and Ethan helped me almost beat Alex at the word search game.  We planted marigolds, but I think the pot got tipped upside down when Ethan and Daddy brought it home.  Michael said he tried to get everything back inside, but if the marigolds don't sprout, we'll replant them.  Marigolds are said to keep the mosquitoes away.  If there is much truth in that I will surround the house with marigold plants!

We are preparing now for Michael's birthday, and are excited to be receiving guests again next week from the mountains of Virginia!  Alaska may never be the same, but it will certainly be in photographs!  We love and miss you all!  Praying that you are safe and having wonderful adventures wherever the Lord has you!

Until Next Time!

"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray,
and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven,
and will forgive their sins, and will heal their land."
II Chronicles 7:14

"A Man Can Really Breathe Up Here...and By the Way...I'm Going to Be a Lumberjack!"

Well...our house guests are gone, and a sad sort of loneliness came to take their places.  We so love having visitors, but their exits remind us of family and friends that are so very far away.  There have been many times when we have seen such magnificent views that particular people have come into our minds, and we want to share them so badly. Oh, how we wish we could bottle those views and send them to you!  In just one week, the gray and brown hues that have been our palette for weeks have suddenly burst forth into the most vibrant yellow-green color.  Moss that bathes the forest floors feels spongy beneath our feet and leaves a fresh air fragrance in our nostrils. A Cooperative Extension agent told us during a class in early August that a "mossy floor is a sign of a well-oxygenated area."  We are "well oxygenated" here!

Springtime in Alaska!

We are all excited to be back outdoors, hiking and getting into any shape besides the "round" ones we found ourselves in after our long winter.  During a recent hike to Thunderbird Falls, we were amazed at the change in the greenery, which almost seemed to occur overnight.  We were also amazed that none of us were congested, had sore throats, or pollen-covered cars as a result of the sudden change of season.  Ethan breathed deeply in the midst of the woods and innocently exclaimed, "Ahhh...a man can really breathe up here (in Alaska)!"

Thunderbird Falls

I have to be honest, though...given the full parking lot, numbers of people hiking the trail, and just the general excitement, I expected more than what we saw at Thunderbird Falls.  Now before you throw something at your computer screen in an attempt to hit me via cyber space because I'm an ungrateful slob, hear me out.  Our family likes to hike, and we've seen amazing sights -- every time.  But I'm accustomed to the waterfalls in the NC State Parks -- you know, the The Last of the Mohicans and such.  So once we got to Thunderbird Falls, I wasn't exactly ecstatic -- especially since I had NC waterfall expectations and knew that my poor arthritic knees were going to have to climb out of this canyon.  I didn't want to admit it, but my real issue was that my pain threshold didn't match the sight at the end, so disappointment (and my agingness) crept in.  There I go, showing my human side again...oh, well.

Trail to Thunderbird Falls

As we headed home (in the midst of my pity party), Michael had a random idea.  He has those quite regularly recently, and I believe they are little nudges from the Holy Spirit, divinely inspired to get us all (well, me...to get me) in the right frame of mind.  Thunderbird Falls is only one of many areas close to home that we've been anxious to visit.  After visiting there, Michael suggested we try Eklutna Lake since it was on the way home.  Ethan and I were game, so we headed the 10 miles into the mountains.

OH, MY WORD!!!! Can you say, "Please forgive me for being a bonehead, Lord?" and
"Thank You for giving my husband such wonderful ideas!"
Eklutna Lake is a miraculous place that inspires so many feelings. 

The first 1/2 of Eklutna Lake
"I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills from whence cometh my help.
My help cometh from the LORD which made heaven and earth."
Psalm 121:1-2

My first feeling was guilt -- at my own unappreciativeness of God's creation.  My second feeling was completely overwhelming, something that happens quite frequently here -- overwhelmed that the God Who created such beauty could be concerned about every facet of my life and love me unconditionally -- even in my humanness!
What a blessing that is!

The pictures of this place can never do justice to its majesty, and now I have another new favorite place!  We spent nearly an hour there, just walking, looking, crying, wishing we could close our eyes, then open them again, and you all would be right there with us.  When that didn't happen, we decided next time we will bring lawn chairs and just sit there -- like a bunch of yahoos on logs, not really watching anything in particular, but trying to take in everything!

Ethan found every rock and stick he could to toss into the lake.  What is it about boys, sticks, rocks, and water?  His brand new size 9 (yes, I said 9!) men's tennis shoes are completely ruined from the trek.  And he would tell you, "It was worth it!"  That seems to be his newest quote.

Even today, as he learned how to chop wood and is now feeling such pain that he cannot bend properly or lift his arms higher than a few inches he quips is a raspy whisper, "It was worth it!"  We think the raspy whisper is for effect to increase the potential for sympathy.  It works.  So this week, as we are finishing up some of our core subjects for this school year and rounding off our field trip circuit, he has learned the following:

1.  Mossy Green Means the Air is Clean

2.  His Daddy Loves His Mama, Even In the Midst of All Her Drama

3.  Following God's Lead Even Disappointments Succeed

4.  When Mama's the Fretter, Mountains & Water Make Everything Better
and his favorite lesson...

5.  Regardless of My (Ethan's) Sore Back, I'm Growing Up to Be a Lumberjack

Until next time, I encourage you to find the hidden treasure
 in the midst of disappointment.  It is in the disappointment that we meet the Lord, that we cry to Him, and that He works wonders.  Praying for and thinking of you all!

Love,

Your Alaskan Family  

"Whatsoever thy hand findeth to do, do it with thy might..."
Ecclesiastes 9:10a

Finding the One Whom My Soul Loves

The Files Take Alaska!   

The Files have invaded Alaska, and with them, their sweet Madison has transitioned from being "Alex's girlfriend" to being "our future daughter-in-law."  I would like to tell you that we were all "surprised" by this turn of events; however, we have all been in cahoots with Alex for more than a month now.  Miss Madison was the only one who was completely "in the dark" about his proposal plans for her during this visit to Alaska. Even Ethan was in on the action, and only once did he give us occasion to feign heart attacks when we thought he was going to tell her.  Boy, did we all breathe a sigh of relief when all he shared was that Alex hadn't obeyed all of the traffic laws earlier in the day!

The Proposal

Monday, April 27, 2015, dawned early and rainy. Alex's original plans included a stop at Beluga Point (Madison's favorite sight seeing destination), followed by a quick stop at the Tesoro Station on the Seward Highway for snacks, before continuing on to the Conservation Center.  The closer we all got to Beluga Point, the more anxious we all became -- all, that is, except for Madison.  We were fortunate enough to see moose, mountain goats, and eagles on the way there, but the crisp temperatures, high winds, and rain clouds forced Alexander to "hurry" his plans more than we think he originally intended.

As they approached one of the higher look-out points at Beluga, he allowed her to move further ahead of him as he slowly reached into his pocket where he had safely hidden her ring.  It was a precious few moments from that time until she said, "YES!" and we were so thankful to have been a part of their special day.  We were only there as "the photography crew" -- but what a blessing!  In an earlier blog I posted about the importance of "keeping our eyes wide open" so we wouldn't miss those precious moments.  That was definitely a memory we will not soon forget!

The weather continued to turn yucky, but even the rain clouds couldn't chase away both of their sunny (and grossly giddy) dispositions!  Once we stopped at Tesoro, we made a game changing plan that proved to be an even greater memory and one of my favorite highlights of the Files Taking Alaska!  Due to the weather, Michael suggested we search out Portage Glacier instead of visiting the Conservation Center.  We all shrugged and said the typical, "OK...whatever," and away we went.  Most of the trails near Portage were still closed for the season, and Michael (very uncharacteristically!) was not carrying any type of "protection" for hiking.  Keep in mind...this was NOT the original plan; but we learned that from now on, guns are not optional! We could have hiked to the actual glacier had we been better prepared -- so we WILL be prepared next time!

Once the women overruled the men from hiking more than mile into the Alaskan wilderness without weaponry, a new idea emerged.  Having driven so close to Portage Glacier, we were but a tunnel drive away from Whittier, Alaska.  Since none of us have ever been to Whittier, it was time to make some memories on the Prince William Sound!  For those of you that don't remember, I'm a bit of a claustrophobe; and guess what?  The tunnel that individuals must use to get into and out of Whittier is an existing train tunnel -- 2.5 miles long (the longest in the world!) -- and is currently used by vehicles and trains (you take turns with each other!)  As I am screaming, "Are you kidding me?" my dear, sweet husband is giggling -- no guffawing! -- as we drove into the tunnel.  I think Mrs. Renae would have let me reach out and hold her hand if she wasn't eyeing the light at the far end so intently.  Meanwhile, Michael and Mr. Johnnie were taking snapshots, laughing, and attempting encouragement with the phrase, "This is cool! Now this is cool!"

Whittier, Alaska
Housing for Most of It's Nearly 300 citizens
No Kidding!

And...truth be told...it WAS cool! And amazing, wonderful, awesome, magnanimous -- pick your favorite adjective!  The uber, creepy tunnel ride was necessary for some of the most amazing views we have seen thus far.  We rode through the small port town of Whittier, which is only open approximately 2-3 months each year.  I would HIGHLY recommend that you each google Whittier, Alaska.  Currently only about 300 people reside there, and most of them live in a 14-foot apartment complex that was built by the US Army many years ago.  In fact, Whittier used to be an Army post, and there were two such structures, but the Army "moth-balled" one of the buildings when they exited Whittier many years ago.  Don't worry...we had to look up "moth-balled," too.  The dictionary defined "moth-balled" as "machinery or building(s) that are no longer used, but that are kept up for future use."  Don't you believe it!  The only  thing the "moth-balled" building could be used for is a scary movie prop!  Mr. Johnnie said he would like to go inside; Ethan said he would never go inside; and Michael said, "I think I see someone inside!"

We made our way to the far side of Whittier and found where the glacial water melts into the Prince William Sound.  It was actually possible to walk from the shore down onto the rocky beach and into the Sound.  Mrs. Renae had on her waterproof boots and was the only one who purposefully got wet!  I won't tell you who actually fell into the water from all the excitement!

Madison pulled her camera out and exclaimed, "THIS is my favorite Alaskan view of all time!"  To which poor Alex dropped his head and said, "Ahhh...I should've waited to propose here!" We all laughed then played the great tourist part by taking lots of pictures!!! We were able to make it back through the tunnel without having to wait an extraordinarily long time.  The tunnel actually closes at 10 p.m. each day now, and if you don't make it out you are stuck in Whittier -- "NO EXCEPTIONS!" the sign states!  Within the next three months more than 700,000 visitors will pass through there.  It was definitely an eclectic little place and since we were the only ones there, it was a veritable paradise!

Making Memories in Whittier, Alaska

The next few days went by in a blur, filled with Facebook posts, Madison blog updates, wedding dress shopping, registering, and wedding planning in general.  I was not aware, but apparently it is now "necessary" to have your own wedding website.  Madison has taken that additional "stress" in stride, and actually I can understand how something like that would make it easy for bride and groom, as it eliminates having to answer the same questions dozens of times.  In the midst of all of the "fun," though, Alex has had to work and finish exams.  That hasn't been his favorite, but today wrapped up his final exam and presentation, so he is good to go until next Fall.  And... I so appreciate the File ladies letting me tag along to the bridal store.  Since I will only ever be the "mother of grooms," that was such a nice treat.  I'm not certain Renae and I were much help though, as Madison is one of those rare young ladies that looks great in any style of clothing -- there weren't any of her picks that we didn't like!

Hiking the Butte
Palmer, Alaska

And now, we are sadly preparing to say our temporary farewells (Lord willing) to the File family. We know they are anxious to get home to familiar surroundings (especially their grand daughter Whitley), but it seems as if they only just arrived.  We were thankful for changing weather (as rain rolled in each afternoon, and there was only one day of hail); and we were able to get some great walking/hiking in at Hatcher's Pass, the Palmer Hay Flats, the Butte, and just around our neighborhood.

Ethan Atop the Butte

Before Alex and Madison said their goodbyes this afternoon, we took several engagement photos in case they are not able to coordinate any additional pictures over the summer.  Because Alex had to travel into Anchorage for an exam and presentation today, we were limited on photography backgrounds.  Leave it to the Lord to "show up and show off" when we least expect it.  As we were winding down photos so Alex could get ready for work, Madison poked her bottom lip out and said, "I'd really like to go somewhere with a big mountain or have something Alaskan in the background." It was as if the good Lord said, "Cue the moose..." because a large female moose meandered into the bog where they had been taking pictures! Literally!  We couldn't decide if we should stay or run!  So...we stayed, but poised ourselves to run!  And...we were able to get some pretty amazing shots! Only in Alaska!

Alaska Engagement Photo with Moose Photo-bomb

Please pray for the Files as they return to North Carolina on a red eye flight tonight.  And please continue to pray for our Andrew.  He is currently in this midst of final exams at Lee University through early next week before traveling to North Carolina for the summer.

Missing you All!
Until Our Next Adventure...



"It was but a little that I passed from them, but I found him whom my soul loveth: I held him, and would not let him go..." Song of Solomon 3:4

Oh, Rats!

Warmer Greetings from the Last Frontier!  We are set to embrace the warmest temperatures we have seen in weeks later this week, and we thank the File family for bringing sunny weather here, all the way from North Carolina.  Their pending arrival is being anticipated with almost as much joy as Baby Jackson's and Baby Ahtna's!  Truly one of our greatest joys has been witnessing other family and friends as they see this wonderful place for the very first time.  It makes for memories like no other.

Helping with Breakup

While we wait for their arrival, we have been busy with daily duties of spring cleaning, last quarter schooling, work, and grocery shopping.  It was during our most recent grocery shopping trip that we came into very close contact with some more of the Alaskan wildlife.  I shan't tell you at which establishment we were purchasing our groceries, lest on a trip here you may not accompany us to fill our pantry (and, yes, I do routinely use the words shan't and lest).  At any rate, Michael and Ethan were perusing the toy department while I shopped the grocery aisles.  The toy department (and other areas of the store) had been completely dismantled for remodeling. That tends to happen in nearly every establishment here in the spring.  As I stood in the frozen food aisle (literally having just picked out the last item on our grocery list), I glanced toward the front of the store just in time to see a giant RAT run from one side of the aisle toward another as he (or she) was making its way toward the produce area.  Did you hear me?!  A RAT!!!!  My husband, God love him, found me frozen in the frozen food section standing on the rung of the buggy, white knuckling the buggy handle with both hands.  And then, like an idiot, all I could do was stutter and point.  Once I got the word, "RAT!" out of my pie-hole, he flagged down the produce manager, who calmly responded, "Yes, we know. They have been active with all the remodeling; but we are taking steps to get rid of them."  What?! AGGGHHH!

Now...I am not naive enough to believe that such critters do not exist within warehouses (particularly given this colder climate); however, I NEVER needed to see them! EVER!!!  If you cannot tell...they are NOT one of my favorite creatures, and I really think I'd rather be charged by a Mama Moose than see a stupid rat!  So even in grocery stores, Alaskan "nature" abounds.  Blech!

Lil Sue at Breakup

On a better note, my sweet husband has been off for a rare few days in a row, and we have been blessed to go out and about exploring some more.  We were actually in search of some new places (closer places) to take our future guests and had a ball muddin' and hiking to get to those places.  Our first venture was to the Little Susitna River.  It's close to one of the prisons, but a prime spot for locals who like to go salmon fishing.  We saw only one other family there, teaching a young one how to fish, but by the looks of the tent sites, camper pull-ins, restroom facilities, and other parking we anticipate it will be full this summer.  We hiked a few of the trails and Ethan made sure his waders "worked."  As you can see that the Lil Sue (which we affectionately began to call her) is still in the midst of break-up.

Bald Eagle at Lil Sue

We saw two magnificent bald eagles there and fresh signs that a moose was in the vicinity.  From there, we ventured on to Port MacKenzie -- an old army outpost that is no longer in use.  It is on the opposite of the Knik Arm, and from the post we could see the Anchorage waterway port of entry and the city of Anchorage.  That was really neat.  Finally, as we headed home, we caught sight of the BEST view of all!

Bald Eagle at High Tide on Knik Arm

The Knik Arm came into view, and it appears like muddy flats at the base of great mountains.  As we stopped to look and take pictures, however, the tide came in -- and with it several eagles and sea otters.  The otters were too quick for pictures, but we did capture an eagle.

In addition to the sightseeing, Ethan and I were able to attend one afternoon of the Native Youth Olympics in Anchorage.  Their athletics is unbelievable, and we watched the kneel jump event for the better part of nearly two hours.  Athletes (boys and girls) from all over the state come together (just like an A.C.E. Convention) to compete in feats of extreme athleticism.

NYO Anchorage 2015

Kneel Jump Start

Kneel Jump Measuring

The kneel jump is accomplished by sitting on your knees, flush with the floor.  From that position, the athlete "jumps" into a standing position, planting both feet firmly on the ground.  Both feet must hit together, and the measure is taken from the starting line to the heel of the foot closest to the line.  The farthest measurement wins.  Ethan cringed every time one of the boys attempted.  He tried it when we got home...without much success.  After several attempts he said, "How do they do that?!" I strongly encourage you to take a look at the NYO events on You Tube to get a better idea of the events! Amazing!

While Ethan doesn't think he can do those types of athletics, he has certainly been blessed with artistic ability.  In addition to his drawings, he recently won a 1st place award for the 4th grade state of Alaska in the VFW Flag Poetry Contest.

We have included a copy of his poem for you to read at your leisure.  He also won Honorable Mention for the state of Alaska in the Letters About Literature national contest.  He wrote a letter to Mr. Mikaelson for his work entitled Spirit Bear.  As his school year winds down, Alex and Andrew are busying themselves with scholarship deadlines.

Jackson Dale Beaver

Jackson at Home with Mommy & Daddy

And, finally, perhaps the most exciting news of our week...Michael and I became an uncle and aunt (respectively :) ) to Matt and Ruth's firstborn -- Jackson Dale Beaver!!!  He was determined to have the final say about when and how he entered this world!  He battled hard and has overcome an irregular heartbeat and jaundice -- all in less than a week!  He is home now, doing wonderfully, and we thank the Lord for His provision, and for this newest addition to our family.  We are so proud of Matt and Ruth and look forward with them to their new role as parents.

Until Next Time -- Blessings to You All!

"The Flag"
By Ethan Martin

The flag, the flag, what do I see?
I see soldiers fighting for me.

The flag, the flag, what do I see?
Red stripes that remind me of my ancestors who have fallen for me.

The flag, the flag, with stripes so white,
Protecting my innocence with all their might.

The flag, the flag, with soldiers that have died;
The blue reminds me of their courage and pride.

The flag, the flag, with stars complete,
Tell of each state's greatest feat.

The flag, the flag, flying so high,
Like an eagle soaring in the sky.

The flag, the flag, what do I see?

I see Jesus and my ancestors watching over me.

Making Way for Babies

April 13, 2015
Alaska State Fairgrounds

While the weather here has decided that winter needs a final sputter, spring seems to have officially "sprung" for all of our friends and family...and with the springing, new life begins and babies abound!  We are exceptionally excited for this week's posting, as Baby Jackson Beaver is scheduled to make his debut in North Carolina no later than Thursday or Friday of this week.

We are hoping for Thursday since Aunt Ruthie will be induced that day,
and more than 24 hours in labor isn't pleasant for anyone!

As a "big sister" it is difficult to imagine my "baby" brother as a husband and father...and yet, here we are.  When did we grow up? Wasn't it just yesterday that he was shoving peas up his own nose?  Wait, yes...it was just yesterday his middle school students would attest -- haha!  It's so funny to remember our antics growing up and now to imagine him as a daddy -- the protector and leader of his family!  I am so proud of the Godly man he has become; and I praise the Lord daily for bringing him such a sweet bride.  They will be great parents, and now we all anxiously wait...

Ethan and Ahtna

Back here in Alaska, we are also excited about another arrival that occurred Easter morning.  Little Ahtna was born as one of eight puppies in a new litter to Mama Jamie of Alaska Labradors in Wasilla. We met her for the first time today.  What a surprise for Ethan!  Poor fella...he's been taking standardized tests for the state of Alaska since Friday of last week.  Science was first, then Math yesterday, followed by English today.  Sadly Alaska has adopted Common Core as its "standard," so the math and English tests are newly written this year and serve as the baseline for future testing of homeschooled students receiving subsidized dollars for education.  After all that testing we were excited to surprise Ethan with a trip to the breeders.  He kept begging to "just go home" because he was so tired (we've been up before 6:00 daily to make it on time to testing)!  The breeder's home was on the way home, and it wasn't until we got to the "puppy shed" and he heard the whining and saw Mr. Ron's Alaska Labrador Sweatshirt that it finally dawned on him where we were.  He nearly danced all the way through the puppy shed.

Mr. Ron's family is a rather large one, and all of his children are homeschooled.   I can't even begin to describe how many dogs they must have, but there are currently three litters from which to choose a new family member.  A previous set of pups was ready today, but the other pups won't be ready to go to their new homes until May 9, 16, and 23rd.  He introduced us to those litters, and Ethan (and Michael!) fell in love with this beautiful rollie-pollie after she left my arms, of course.  We had decided on a name several weeks ago in honor of a nearby mountain range.  Baby Jackson joins Matt and Ruth on Thursday-Friday, and Baby Ahtna will join us in late May.  So many changes, and yet such joy!

Babies aside, most of our attention has been turned weather-ward.  Our days prior to Easter were spent readying the garden plots for planting, but we have been employed most recently with observing the odd weather phenomena.  We watched the blood moon, which truly did look red.  Although the pictures definitely do not do it justice, it was an amazing evening of gazing heavenward!

Blood Moon Eclipse Begins

Blood Moon April 2015

After that, it hailed here for three days in a row, then warmed up again. At the end of last week, it was d-r-y in Wasilla, but by the time we got to the fairgrounds in Palmer on Friday, there were at least three inches of fresh snowfall.  We like the snowfall in the midst of spring, however. Spring here is not like spring in the Lower 48.  With all of the melting snow, everything "breaks up" and turns to muck, guck, and gross. The trash that has fallen from (or been thrown from) vehicles all winter litters the medians, shoulders, and roadways.  We know the fresh snowfall covers it only momentarily, but a new snow sure makes everything seem pure and clean again.  Reliving that part of our Alaskan experience has given "literal" meaning to being "washed whiter than snow."

State Fairgrounds Beneath Pioneer Peak

In the midst of all of that, we have been trying to clean up our yard when we can, without getting mired in muck.  To that end, the boys have established a ceremonial "burn pile" that has already gotten its first use of the season.  We anticipate hopefully sitting around the fire next week or the week after when the File family reaches our humble home.  Nothing says welcome to Alaska like fresh snow, some mud, and some fire!  I always have enjoyed that wood smoke smell!

First Fire of the 2015 Season

In other news, our church held its Spring Fling this past Friday, and Ethan and I ran the fishing booth.  Michael had to work Thursday and Friday, so Ethan and I were charged with set-up, manning, and clean-up.  It was so reminiscent of Fall Festival that I cried, literally...LOTS of tears -- missing all of my students, family, and friends at Rockwell.  It was the first time I had occasion to go into the gymnasium that is attached to the school.  It reminded me so much of the Charger home court (complete with new floor and unfinished loft), that I took one step in and burst into tears!  Ethan was precious and understood my tears, and we talked about how we could make the fishing booth better for next year and how we should recommend a "Paul and Silas" jail to this crew!

The Fishing Booth was a VERY popular booth - probably because of the tremendous amounts of sugar we loaded those youngsters up with!  But at least we weren't giving away live animals! That was at another booth -- haha!  No rabbits, but live fish!  Ethan served as "the fish" behind the curtain of water, and I was the one fortunate enough to try to teach all those young ones how to "cast a line" and yell "fish on!" when they got a "bite."  When they realized they were fishing for goodie bags, we had a line for the full two hours!  We were exhausted, but we had great fun!

"Regular" school is on tap for tomorrow, then we will be field tripping it into Anchorage a couple of days this week to watch the Native Youth Olympics!  So much to do, and now we only have sunlight from 6:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.  Missing you all and looking forward to updating you on our (and others') great adventures!

Ethan's Garden Plot

Breakup Brings "Flocks of Meese"

     We hesitate to say it, but we believe that "break-up" has officially arrived in our area of Alaska, changing the landscape here, yet again.  It has been amazing to watch the summer fade into fall, to wait patiently for the first snows, and now to have arrived at the time when the ice and snow are melting and the temperatures are on the rise again.  I must admit, I do love the changes of all the seasons (fall is my absolute favorite), but I had forgotten the "yuck" that must precede spring in this great state.

     Many of you awaken to "spring" with beautiful flowers, greener grass, and leaves that seem to appear on your trees overnight.  The change here is much s-l-o-w-e-r, which seems to mirror the pace of this place.  Sometimes I find I am growing impatient, so Ethan has reminded me (on more than one occasion) to seek the beauty and the good -- in the midst of the yuck.  His gentle prodding reminds me that such is often the case with life...

     Seasons change -- some bringing beauty, others, not so much.
Yet in the midst of the mud, guck, and yuck there is beauty...and hope...
if we are diligent about seeking it.  

     Our beauty can be seen amid the ankle deep mud -- in a sunrise that begins now close to 5:00 a.m. and a sunset that leaves the skies lit until nearly 10:30 p.m. With the advent of additional Vitamin D you would think that we have more energy than can possibly be expended.  Not so!  Our bodies try to stay awake as long as the sun does, so we find ourselves already starting projects earlier and later than we normally would in the Lower 48 - and paying the price with bleary eyes and weary bodies.

Hatchet Boy

We are attempting a B-I-G spring cleanup of our yard which began in earnest this past week.  Michael felled two trees and has plans to take out a few additional widow-makers in our back yard.  We all worked in the front yard clearing a landscaped area that hasn't had much attention in the past few years.  It will definitely be a learning experience, as much of that area was covered in moss and needed quite a bit of weeding and "hatchet attention," while the backyard is completely covered with huge rocks that would destroy our mower if we attempted to use it. 

     I remain sore from that day's work, but feel accomplished, as it looks much better.  There is still a rather large slab of ice in our front yard where the sun shies away for much of the day.  Because our driveway slopes downhill, I'm not quite sure I can't paint a vivid enough picture of the murky quagmire that was our driveway a week ago.  Ethan could wade in the melting puddles and just barely keep water from running into his boots at his knees.  Michael made a makeshift bridge from some old lumber he found hiding underneath his workshop.  I think it has served more as a hardcore door mat than anything.  We would walk in ankle deep mud from our cars to the "bridge," stamp off our muddy shoes, and enter the house.  Praise the Lord for a mud room!  It is definitely that!

   
 

First Bike Ride of the Season

Despite the mud, we are able to get out and enjoy the weather by walking, and Ethan has begun riding his bicycle quite often.  Hiking isn't too far in the distance, and we have already mapped out some new locations we want to try once all of the mud is at bay.  The warmer weather has also spawned tiny buds on the trees, and we know it won't be long before the brown turns a vibrant green.  Bears have been spotted in Palmer, and many a wildlife specialist attributes that to the very warm winter we had this year.  Warmer winters "confuse" the bears, so they go to sleep later and awaken earlier.  As a result, we remain cautious when outdoors, particularly when we are around moose.  Moose are practically a staple of the bear diet -- particularly upon waking from hibernation.  It is a bit too early yet for calving, but calves tend to receive the brunt of the bear hunts.

   
Interestingly enough, we have seen more and more moose activity.  Michael and Ethan saw 4 moose on one trip from Wasilla to our house, and Ethan and I saw 3 large moose congregated together in a feeding area a few miles from home.  It was completely unexpected, as moose don't normally travel together like that.  I got so excited at seeing them that I yelled, "Look, Ethan!  It's a whole FLOCK of

moose!"  In true educated fashion, he shook his head and said, "I don't think that's correct, Mom.  If anything, it would be a herd."  As we burst into laughter that spawned an entirely new conversation about the intricacies and rules of the English language, and I decided very quickly that we had indeed witnessed a "flock of meese." Ethan stayed true to his "herd of moose" and even told me he would show me the English rules (exceptions) that led to his conclusion!  All in a day's work!

     His next project is determining which artwork to enter into the State Fair in August.  The Exhibitor Guide was published earlier this week, and he is excited about entering multiple entries in the various art classes.  He may even talk me into entering a crochet project!  Alexander was less enthusiastic about our prospects and even said, "That sounds a lot like ACE Convention!"    

     "Yes! For all ages!"

Magua (aka Wes Studi)
The Last of the Mohicans

     Alex is less likely to participate, as his current life situation is work and school -- full-time at both.  It is doable, but very exhausting.  Please pray for continued strength for him.  Michael has also been busy, completing a 3-month leadership course at the VA. His graduation was earlier this week, and we had a chance to meet some of his co-workers here.  It has been a unique transition for him, as they are professional - but relaxed.  Individuals are not constantly trying to "move to the next promotion."  Perhaps that's the result of working at a smaller facility.

LEAD Graduation, March 31, 2015

Andrew continues to work diligently at Lee, and he and Sydney are making their way to North Carolina and Tennessee this holiday weekend.  He is excited to show her "his stomping grounds and where he grew up," Please pray for their safety.

     And, now, as we must continue to busy ourselves with the work for this day, we pause for a moment to reflect with you about the joy and significance that this weekend holds.  Today is "Good" Friday.  While the acts that were accomplished on this day to our Savior were so heinous and "not good," His WILLINGNESS to take the punishment that should have been ours to secure our salvation is indeed Good.  We will celebrate His resurrection on Sunday and remember the unconditional love that only He has for us.  We pray you will know and remember that He loves you, too, and that you will accept His grace, forgiveness, and gift of salvation. Blessings to You All!

"But God commendeth His love toward us, in that, while we were yet sinners, Christ died for us."
Romans 5:8