Peace, LOVE, and Happiness (for many, many reasons)

February 2014

And here we are…in February, the current month. I was only a few months behind :)

February has been an exciting month here in New Stuyahok. Not only did we celebrate Valentine’s Day, but we also stayed busy last weekend with several events including a spirit week, the New Stu Showdown (basketball tournament with boys and girls teams from three other villages plus our own), carnival, and a kiddy carnival.

Thursday, Friday, and Saturday were filled with basketball games galore. It was really fun to watch everyone play and have the opportunity to see kids I recognized from the past five summers of basketball camp, as well as coaching volleyball this year.

Carnival included many events, but the one I participated in the most was the Junior Miss Pageant. Several middle school girls participated in a pageant where they had to give a speech, perform a talent, and show off some formal evening wear. I had the honor of being a ‘judge’ for the pageant and it was so fun to watch the girls stand in front of the whole village and be brave enough to speak and dance and sing in front of them. (I definitely did not have that kind of courage at their age!)

We also were blessed by a short visit from our friends from Iliamna. They arrives Saturday morning to watch their sons play basketball in the Showdown, so we were able to enjoy their company during the game as well as during lunch and a relaxing time at our houses.

On Monday, we had a kiddy carnival where school ended a little early so that kids could participate in the “Kiddy Carnival.” There were many games and activities that were run by teachers and student council members and it lasted for a couple hours. The kids all had a blast and came to school the next day showing off all of the prizes they won!

In other news, this past Monday also brought forth contracts. I am excited to say that I will be returning to “Chief” Ivan Blunka School in New Stuyahok in the fall for another year! :) I am blessed to be to be a part of this village and surrounded by such awesome friends, new and old, who encourage me daily in my walk with God.

Last night, we had several kids from New Stuyahok, as well as, the boy’s basketball team from Port Alsworth over to our house for a great time of fellowship and worship. It was AWESOME!

Sending love and warm wishes to all of my friends and family who have been surviving this crazy winter back in the cold, snow-covered, lower 48! We finally got a little bit of snow here yesterday and enjoyed that (see some silly pictures below). It’s warm (36 degrees) and windy (always windy) again today.

We frolicked and played, the Eskimo way...

Walking in a winter wonderland!

PS. More great news that this month has brought is that my friends will be staying as well! Not only my coworkers, but also my roommate, Doni. Praising the Lord that He has shown her His will AND that it is to return to Stu again in the fall! She's a great aunt, an amazing roommate, and a wonderful adventure buddy!