Tessa's Blog

Some pretty pictures and a funny story!

2009-08-29T20:45:00.005-06:00

Here are some pictures from my recent travels! The one above and below are from the Portage Lake trip we went on. It was a really great day and I liked the iceberg cause if you look at it long enough it looks like a bird sitting on the ice--just proves how artistic mother nature truly is!

This is Curtis--we have been paralleling for awhile now--that means that we are on the same tour with two groups and just follow each other around. We are on our second 10 day tour and think we will be doing the next tour together as well--we are acting like an old married couple--it's been fun though. Just friends for those of you who may be wondering.

We are on the Yukon Queen boat coming from Dawson City to Eagle, Ak and saw a bear which doesn't normally happen so of course I took pictures of this cute and cuddly bear. He was swimming across the river (the Yukon) and when he went of the side a bit he stopped then pulled a fish out of a hole or something then carried it up the rest of the way.
This is 5 Finger rapids which is on the way from Whitehorse to Dawson City. It's a pretty great day so I decided to do my group pic there so meet one of my favorite groups.
Ok now for the FUNNY story...the first thing I thought was you know whats funnier then seeing someone fall is watching a fat person fall!!--so we got into the hotel in Fairbanks and I run inside to drop off my bags to get ready to hand out the key packets. I start to walk away from my bags and don't realize the that my bags strap is still wrapped around my ankle and I go down HARD!! I went down on my one knee then cont. to fall on my face. Luckily my guests didn't see me except for two of them and unfortunately everyone else in the lobby saw me including some of Curtis's group who all of course ran over to me asking how I was and I just said I was find and didn't want to talk about it!! LOL it was pretty funny not to mention so humiliating but hey what can you do. Anyway this is my knee--I iced it last night cause it was pretty swollen. Oh well there's my funny story of the day!
Alright well thats it for now--have a glorious day!

What a slacker I am

2009-08-01T20:08:00.002-06:00

So it's August 1 and I thought I would greet the new month with my monthly post. LOL Well thats what it appears I have been doing. I just don't ever have anything exciting to say--plus I'm on facebook too so anyway enough about that. Ok whats new....

Miles and Becky are having a BOY!!!! I am so excited for them--it was pretty funny when they found out they were expecting Brayden said don't worry about having it if it's not a boy! Or something like that and well he got his wish. They are in SLC right now and hope they are having a great time.

Nothing new with me--just working a ton and enjoying it most of the time. My tours have been going really well so far and I will be busy for the rest of the summer so thats good. I am still working on what I will be doing this winter and will give an update if I ever make up my mind. Right now the options are...Alaska (yikes--upside being there when the baby is born and being able to see family more often), NYC (applying for a job where I would be able to use my Russian and possilbly travel over there), SLC (don't want Sadie to feel left out, but it's not likely :), and California (cause - well I have always thought it would be nice to live somewhere warm), and last but not least Texas-- anyway I need to go where there's work!

Well I have a few more hours of sitting here at the Westmark hotel in Fairbanks unless the rest of my group miraculously shows up then I can go home. There are so many fires going on right now I smell like I've been sitting around a campfire. I am hoping it goes away soon cause my guests want to be able to see the sights! But hey what can you do. Thats it for now!

Good Life!

2009-06-07T01:59:00.006-06:00

Well I thought I would get on here and let y'all know what I'm up to. I'm sorry to say it's not all too exciting, but I figure somethin' is better than nothin'. So I am sitting here at midnight in Fairbanks after dropping off my third tour. It went really well as did the last two so I can't complain there. I have been really lucky with my groups and am just waiting for the challanges to start cause I know they are coming--or should I call them the special people. A lot of the same td's (tour directors) are back this year so it's been like a reunion for the past couple of weeks and I still haven't seen everyone. The numbers are pretty good considering the economy--I guess everyone is dropping their int'l tours and coming to AK! Anyway I was just going through some pics and thought I would share.

I was able to spend some time with Becky, Miles and the kids which was a lot of fun. I let Taegs take some pictures and I got a lot of her, can't say I'm surprised cause it's what I would do!! Anyway this one turned out really good--she is getting so grown up and so pretty!

Addi looks up to her sister so much and tries to copy things she does--as you will notice in the following pictures. This first one is actually after the following ones on the trampaline, but oh well it's one of my favorites. Taegan would do something and Addi would try and do it too.

Couldn't tell if this was yogo or just stretching.

They came to hang out at the homestead and I was able to grab the girls, but Brayden was to busy doing his thing so at least we were able to get him in the picture.
Lisa decided to get in on the fun and well as you can see fun was had by all!
Ok well this is my humble abode in Denali. We get to stay in these quaint little cabins--usually with a roommate. They are actually pretty comfy and it's like our own little community where we can get away from our sheep who tend to flock us if we are in their sights. So I guess what I'm saying is that I'm glad we don't stay in the hotel cause then we wouldn't have any time away!
Just hanging out with some old and new friends. Meet Jenna and Emily (old) and shoot I can't remember his name--it was his birthday so we bought him dinner--he's a little sad cause he's missing his wife-who didn't get to come up here with him. Anyway it was fun.
I am going to try and take more pictures this year so I have something to write about on this blog. I am glad to be working and still trying to figure out where I am going. Right now I am thinking of staying in Anchorage where I would be closer to the kids and the new baby come Oct. which is a major plus--but the other part of me would really like to give NYC another chance. I really loved it over there!

Anyway things are going well with me--until next time---

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2009-05-10T03:44:00.002-06:00

Just a shout out to all the Mom's out there with a special place in my heart...
My Mom of course is #1
Sadie
Grandma
Becky
Carrie
Amy
Melinda
Anna

Ok I am going over in my head all the Mom's I know and it's just too long to list at 1:50 am so I am gonna shorten this up a bit.

If your a part of my life and your a mom/future mom then this shout out is for you. You all have such precious gifts (even if you wonder sometimes if there is a return policy) so remember all the happy memories and keep them in your heart to treasure. This is your day so celebrate YOU and don't forget how special you are to those in your lives.

I know I know I know!

2009-05-04T14:59:00.002-06:00

So I am still here--I just didn't really have anything too exciting to share, but I think people just stop checking my blog cause I never update--I will try my bestest to get better! I will just give a quick update right now cause I am cleaning and can't stop too long or will loose my groove!

I just moved back up to Anchorage to start with Holland America again. I start on the 8th for some refresher training then hoping I will get to go into touring. I am sharing an apt. with 9 other TD's (tour directors) in a one bd and it's gonna be tight, but we are never home at the same time so it should work. I am only abt 6 blks from the office and hotels so it's a really great location. It sure beats paying for taxi's wherever I go. I know most of the td's and they are all really nice--girls and guy's alike so it should be fun!

Anyway the girl rented out to someone right before us and they left the apt. a mess so needless to say I am cleaning, but it's a great little apt. It's in the Knik Arms building which is been in Anchorage for a really long time--it's practically a landmark. It looks a little run down, but they have made some nice renovations so it's not a dump which makes living here nice. I will send pics when I get done making it pretty. Well I gotta get back to it before I think of something else I can distract myself with! Ciao!

Guess it's time for an update!

2009-03-30T12:02:00.003-06:00

I know it's been forever, but honestly I just haven't had anything too exciting to say or figured out so I guess that's my excuse for being such a slacker on this blog. Lately though I have been able to capture a few pics that I feel are worth sharing. Also I have some really great news...BECKY'S PREGNANT!!! It's official and we are all very excited. I can't believe I didn't catch on earlier cause she has been sick, but so has her kids and almost every other kid and/or person around here so I figured she was just catching some of that. Anyway I was really surprised to hear the good news not to mention pretty excited. Becky did catch a bad cold and that mixed with her pregnancy sickness and it just flamed up into a monster and she has been really sick. So for the last week I have been helping out watching the kids so she could rest and get better. It's been a lot of fun spending time with them and thankfully Becky has, I think, gotten over the worst of her cold--it really sucks getting sick. I am just waiting for it to hit me, but thankfully so far nothing has happened. I have been drinking airborne and I think that has been keeping it at bay. Anyway time will tell.

I house sat for some friends of mine while they vacationed in Hawaii and brought the kids over to play with their dog Bruno. The Hansen's are really good friends with the Swanson's so they were familiar with the house and the dog knew them. Anyway this first one is of them watching Spongebob Squarepants which is their most favorite show ever. In fact they want to watch it so much that they have been grounded for a month--mostly cause Mom & Dad are so sick of it--like I can blame them--the show can really drive you crazy after so much. Anyway this picture was pretty cute--Taegs and Brayden were sitting there and then Addi just climbed up in the middle of them. She did have her arms around both Taegan and Brayden but I missed it. I really need to have that camera closer cause I miss a lot of good shots. Anyway, they are just too cute!

Addi and I were waiting to get Taegan from school and Addi came up to the front to keep me company. She is getting so big and is really starting to talk. She can say quite a few words and aside from that just makes lots of sounds that will soon become words.
Ok--a little scary! Addi has figured out how to open the doors and tries to escape on a regular basis. Anyway when she finds a door thats not deadbolted then she goes and doesn't stop till she's discovered. This is one of those times we found her outside. The pic is pretty easy to tell whats going on--as you can see she took the first shoes she could find--didn't bother to put her pants back on cause she likes to strip whenever she gets a chance and mad a run for it. However, she did mangage to get another shirt--you know--to stay warm. I'm telling you what this kid is so funny!
Here's another time we were at the Swanson's and she came into the room like this I thought it was so cute and thankfully had my camera with me.

Anyway--there you go! I have been subbing for the schools around here and that has kept me somewhat busy. I am going to be a tour director this summer again for Holland America unless something else presents itself. I have also been looking into a company called Lynden Transport--it's a pretty big company here in AK and elsewhere. They do a lot of work over in Russia and I am thinking of getting a certificate in Logistics at UAA to help me get into the company. Anyway that is what is happening right now with me! Hope all is well with you!!!

I'm 31 -- AHHHHH!!

2009-02-26T17:59:00.004-07:00

So I wasn't planning on doing anything for my birthday cause to be honest I really wasn't too excited about turning 31. Anyway my roommate found out and so we all decided to do something. It turned out to be a really good day and it was fun too. First Julie (my roommate) made me breakfast then we just hung out at home for a while then some friends and I went out to walk around the Financial district and Battery Park where you can see Lady Liberty, Staten Island, and some pretty parts of the city.

Then we went to find the "Bull" (the first pic) you see it in Hitch and quite a few other movies and acted the tourist and took pic's of ourselves acting crazy. Then they bought me dinner at this cool restaurant called Big Daddy's and then caught a Stake FHE activity and mingled with the people there. Then we caught a late movie and after that we decided to catch the 1:30 ferry to Staten Island which was only a half hour one-way. Its a great chance to see the city all lit up as well as Lady Liberty. Anyway I couldn't get my camera to take good pics so you will just have to take my word for it as it was beautiful. Then we finally got home around 3:30 (just trying to stay as young as possible). Overall it was a really great day!

Here are some pics that I took today... this first one is pretty cool. It's an actual piece that fell off one of the twin towers.

I live with a girl who loves broadway and she has other broadway friends-- so this is me trying to be creative. It was so cold with the wind--I couldn't feel my face or fingers. It's a good thing I was from AK cause my friends from Cali thought they were dying. Well ok just Cyndi thought she was but it was really cold.
I would imagine that you know who this is. The sun was going down and it was really pretty outside.
This is right outside or part of Battery Park. On the left side you can see these concrete slabs those have names of soldiers on them.
This one is the same park and it was really cool cause you can see the shadow of the Statue of Liberty.
Ok well there you go!

Little Russia

2009-02-23T09:21:00.003-07:00

Saturday I went to Brighton Beach with a girl from my ward. I had heard that this area of Brooklyn was filled with so many Russians that it was like a "Little Russia." So we decided to go there and see if I could find some Russians to talk to. So we left around 3 pm and had no idea how to get there and were not certain of the route, but there are maps in all the stations and we were pretty sure we could figure it out. As it turns out, there was construction on almost every train line in the city this weekend (as is frequently the case on weekends). This construction means lots of re-routing and the occasional shuttle bus instead of a train. It also means that trains are sometimes stopped, started, or have their routes changed while you are on the train or while you are waiting for the train. Anyway, we finally got to Brighton Beach sometime after 5 pm--it took us forever, but we got to walk around China Town and Canal Street (where all the illegal purse selling goes on) in the process of transferring trains.

As we got off the final train in Brighton Beach I knew we were in the right place because all the signs I could see were in Russian--It was great! We walked around and looked at different shops. Almost everyone I saw looked Russian it was like I was back in St. Petersberg--we almost anyway. We looked around at some restaurants but all were pretty spendy and then we found this bazaar--store and they had a lot of prepared food there so we just got some things to go. It was amazing to see all these foods that I had been missing and so I loaded up. Most of the brands there were Russian brands--almost everything in the store was Russian. It was a lot of fun and I think Cindi even had fun.

Well we returned to my place and heated up some of our food and shared dinner. There was so much food that I have had a couple more meals from it. It was a great day. It definitly brought back some memories. I even got to speak with one of the ladies working at the store and we had a small conversation in Russian. I hate how much of the lang. I have lost but am happy to know I can still carry a conversation with someone and they still understand me. I am putting a picture on here that shows you how far I went to get there. On a regular day when the trains are running like normal it would have only taken an hour to get there but it's still far away. And I should tell you that I was a spacecadet and forgot my camera so--I just have this one that my friend took for me. She didn't have that much space on her camera or else I would have more. So thats that!

We really did have a great day and had quite the time getting there. Later!

No Place Like NYC!

2009-02-10T14:04:00.002-07:00

So I have been getting requests for more pics so here you go...

Well I can't say I like this format but I don't want to do it over again. The one of the apt. is mine and the statue guy is REAL! It was pretty creep when I walked past and he turned towards me and smiled. Anyway I couldn't help but take a picture once I walked past. I put a pic of the park in there so you can see that we do have greenery here and it's even better in the summer time.

Anyway just thought I would post these pics and hope you enjoy!

Hey All

2009-02-01T18:50:00.002-07:00

So just thought I would say hi to one and all...ok I'm in a weird mood. Anyway I am just hanging out waiting for the Office to come on--for those of you who don't appreciate the Office for it's hilariousness then I don't expect you to understand, but for those of us who do are way excited!!

Things are going pretty well. I don't have anything really to say and I wish I did, but I don't. Church today was really good and a really good testimony in a singles ward is pretty hard to come by. Anyway everyone's testimony was really great except for this one guy's who really shouldn't have gotten up. So he gets up there and it starts out pretty good then he started telling us about how he has been using the internet to find a wife--thats right thats what I said--looking for a wife. So he goes on to tell us that he has found one from Russia of all places and that we should try facebook to find someone to love--I am being serious!!! Someone should really tell him that most likely she's just looking for a green card--but hey I suppose he will find out soon enough. I could not believe he was actually saying these things anyway he finally sat down and then several others saved the meeting from loosing the spirit all together and bore their testimonies. I really like my ward--the members are really nice and welcoming. Anyway thats my funny story for today. Ciao!

Happy Birthday Becky

2009-01-26T20:17:00.002-07:00

Becky another year has come and gone!!! Man how do we stop them from coming? I just wanted to wish you a very Happy Birthday--I hope it was a great day of surprises and breakfast in bed! Love you guys!

Life in the Big City!!

2009-01-26T18:36:00.005-07:00

Well here's an update for all of you out there wondering how I am! Today I went to this free concert of "New Music" by Joel New who wrote all the songs and composed most of them. It was at the Lincoln Center so that was pretty neat. It was our FHE activity. The songs were very well written--they weren't necessarily song but a song cycle--a story made into a song. I wish I could have recorded a couple of them they were hilarious. Everytime I get off the subway I see something new--this time we walked up onto the street and there was the temple in all it's glory. I want to go again and get a closer look sometime. After that we jumped onto the subway again--and had a pretty funny experience and yet a little scary at the same time. There was a man a very tall--big man who was clearly homeless and stood up in the middle and just started punching the air. He was angry about something, but not saying anything just punching the air--turning around in circles. Luckily no one was too close. Anyway there was a moment when the train stopped and he stuck his head out and I was so tempted to just give him a little push, but I didn't since I didn't have the guts for one thing and another if the doors had stayed open then he could have gotten back on and well... It was funny, but a sad funny because who knows what his situation was and you wish you could do something for him. Anyway enough about that.

Things have been going well aside from the fact that I haven't found work yet. I have had two companies call for an interview in the last two days, which would have been great but apparently they are a ways out of the city and since I am without a car it would be impossible. It's quite frustrating because on their ad online it said they were close-by. When I asked them about that they said they are hiring from all over--anyway I am still optimistic. I am going in for a 2nd interview on Saturday and will hopefully knock their socks off so they hire me on the spot. This would be at a Lane Bryant store and they are looking for managers and so that could be a possibility. I am going to hit the streets again tomorrow and will see what happens. That's it on the job front.

This is just a picture I took the other day while I was walking around!
So I was looking at my pictures and found this video of Cailyn that I had forgotten about. It's sooo cute--she was trying to stick out her tongue and trying to mimik Sadie. I am just so blest to have these little children in my life--Thank you Becky, Miles, Sadie, and Corey!!!

Pictures!!!

2009-01-17T11:44:00.004-07:00

Alright--These first three are of Times square during the day then at night. It really lights up and well it was great. It's been pretty cold especially when you are walking around. People all over have scarves wrapped completely around their faces it's pretty funny. I guess it's been in the 20-30's maybe a little colder with the wind chill. Anyway I still love it.

These are of my apt. I think you can get a pretty good idea of what it looks like. It's pretty comfortable except that it's kept cold--lower 60's. I'm even chilled, but they are working on it.

OK well I just wanted to get these online--I gotta get back to my job search. Talk to you later!

First day in New York City!!

2009-01-16T21:28:00.002-07:00

Alright guys--first of all I would just like to say that I already love living here. I'm not just saying this either--even though coming here by the end, as broke as I am, was to just spite everyone who says it's not gonna work out. But I have a really great roommate who has a friend also from the ward and we spent the whole day wandering around--it was great. We did a little shopping at this little grocery store a half a block down from my building. Then we met up with Megan--my roommates friend and went to the MET. After being there for about 2 hours we grabbed some lunch and went to a free screening for an upcoming movie. This was held in the Paramount Studios--also where MTV is shot among other things. After that we just walked around and got some dinner at a great Irish pub/restaurant then went home. However during our wandering and for your comic relief I was looking at something instead of the road and I stepped into a little pothole and lets just say the fat girl biffed it big time. I mean I feel like I just hit it and went straight down. I twisted my ankle just a little and hurt my other leg somehow. I didn't feel it as much at the time, but now I am really feeling it. I still can't believe I did that--ok who am I kidding I can believe it. But despite my clumsiness I still had a great time. Times Square was so amazing all lit up and everything. The best thing is that I wasn't mugged--sorry Todd I know you were counting on that. Now I just have to see some famous people!!! Ok well I do have some pictures for you from Julies and Megans cameras since I pulled a Tessa and didn't take my camera, but will get them on here as soon as I can. Ok thats enough for me! Cross your fingers that I find a job ok!!!

Just too ADORABLE!

2009-01-06T15:11:00.005-07:00

Hello all-- So I have been hanging out in Mona and it's been a lot of fun. Cailyn is getting so big so of course I have been taking lots of pictures. Sadie has stolen some of mine-aka-all the ones on her latest blog, but what can I say she beat me to the punch. Here are some pics for right now. This one was fun--everytime I would start to raise the camera she started looking like this. So funny!
This one is us just hanging out and she just sat (which is has been doing a lot of) there on the floor and just tipped herself over onto Sadies lap. She laid there for a little while just chillin out.

What can I say I get the pics when I can especially when she's happy, which is pretty much most of the time, so lets just say I have a lot more then I put on here. I will post more later. She and I were just playing here and got laughing--man alive she's cute. I swear I have the cutest nieces and nephews!

Here are a couple video's for your viewing pleasure the first one is of Cailyn being as cute as ever and the second I just couldn't help myself. I mean what would an oldest sister be if she didn't bug her younger sister every once in a while.

Well that's good for right now. I still have Christmas to do and will get that up soon. I just wanted to get these on here before Sadie stole them from me. Also to let you all know that I am still blogging I just am pretty much a slacker when it comes down to it. But things are going well-just getting everything ready to go to the Big Apple.

See ya'll later!

Tis the Season...

2008-12-25T01:38:00.002-07:00

I just wanted to wish everyone a very MERRY CHRISTMAS. I know I have really been slacking on my blog, but am kinda dep... at where I am in my life right now so when it gets more exciting I will fill you all in. I am having a blast reading everyone else's. I do wish you all a wonderful Christmas and hope it goes great for all of you. My whole family is here and if it wasn't so late I would post pics of our little party in Palmer so I will do that soon. It's so great having Sadie and Lisa back home and with some great additions--Corey and Cailyn (Sadies hubby and baby girl). Anyway we are having a great time being together and will do my best to remember getting the camera out. Well that's it for now. My thoughts are with you and wish you all a great new year!

SNOW SNOW AND MORE SNOW!

2008-10-07T10:25:00.003-06:00

So last night Mother Nature was having a hay day and it snowed quite a bit. It's not too cold (just under 40 degrees) out so hopefully it goes away. It's just too early for there to be this much snow. AND it just started again--who knows maybe it's here to stay. I suppose a great number of evil snowmen will be made today! So if everyone can cross their fingers that the sun comes out I would appreciate it.

Other than the snow--things are going well. I'm still looking for a job--there just isn't too much available here. Anyway I hope it's nice and warm where you are. Later!

Catching Up!

2008-10-06T14:03:00.004-06:00

IT"S SNOWING!! I can't believe it--well ok I can, but I just don't want to believe it. I hope it doesn't stick but it's been snowing for a couple of hours now--it did stop a little then started up again. There are really big flakes coming down now. So I thought I would make the best of it....

This is the first snowman--I tried to make him look evil cause that's what snow is--cold and evil. If you look closely you can see how mean he looks.
Here's our house with a fresh coating of snow--My moms pretty excited--she loves snow and I just don't understand it--it is pretty I just like it in pictures.
This is the evil snowman killing all my moms pretty flowers as well as everyone's pretty little flowers!

So I decided to take matters into my own hands and I am sentencing the evil snowman to death--by a very slow melting process! Ok Ok I know I'm bored, but haven't you ever heard of cabin fever??

Well thats it for now--the snowman has been eliminated! From the looks of it the snow has no intentions of slowing so there will be more evil snowmen I am sure.

I hope everyone is doing well! Feel free to comment--I know I'm not good at this but drop in and say hello! Ta-Ta!

Nightmarish Dejavu!

2008-10-06T13:34:00.004-06:00

Well Dad has brought the wood home and the scary noises from my past--you know the wood splitter and chainsaw have started up again. He hasn't really told me that I have to do wood, but I can tell he wanted to--he would keep mentioning it and say how much he needed help. So I went out there and helped for about 5 hours--let me tell you I don't miss it at all. Then the next day we worked on it for a little more. I just couldn't just stay inside while my mom and dad were out there working--the guilt was just too much. Anyway Mom was pretty funny--I thought she could use a break from stacking so I let her at the splitter, but she was just too slow and almost dainty that I had to take over or else I was gonna go crazy--we would have been out there forever. No offence mom--I LOVE YOU! Man there is a lot of my father in me!!! Anyway we had fun-well as much fun as can be had anyway.

I'm only smiling here cause I didn't realize Mom had the camera then I just couldn't help myself. This is taken after I kicked my Dad off--all I had to say was "do you want help or not" then he started stacking. I know it wasn't very nice, but he's lucky I went out there at all. You don't have to say it I know I'm a brat!!

Here she is using her big muscles to get the wood. She was having a lot of fun doing wood--I always knew my parents were crazy. I swear I would rather walk around in full winter gear then having to do this much wood. But how can you resist this face!

Here's mom--she was being so dainty (look at her hand over the wood) it was really funny and cute.

Needless to say I was really happy when Conf. started--on Saturday. Now he has it hooked up to his truck so there is no chopping wood today! Just thought I would share my hardships with you all hoping for a little sympathy!

Trip to Utah

2008-10-06T13:15:00.004-06:00

I went to Utah to visit my two sisters and brother! Sadie as most of you probably know by now that she had a baby 4 months ago and I had been dying to see Cailyn--so I did. Anyway Utah was a lot of fun. I stayed in Mona for the most part and just hung out with my sister Sadie and baby. Cailyn is getting so big and she really has a fun personality. She has the prettiest smile and snuggles with you--I loved it! Here are some pictures:

Here she is sitting in her bumbo--dang she really is cute!

Don't be alarmed Sadie didn't pass out on her baby as it appears here--she really is kissing/blowing on Cailyn's neck cause it was making her laugh so hard--but I missed it on the camera. She is at least smiling--I swear she knows all camera's now and can stop smiling as soon as the little light comes on right before the pic. She is so funny!
Lisa was able to come down and visit--that was a lot of fun to have her there. She's always been able to brighten up anyone's day. However as it's evident Cailyn is done with pictures and not even Lisa was able to get her to crack a smile. But she's still cute as ever.

Here's a pic of all of us. We haven't done this since Lisa went to the MTC. Man it's crazy how fast time flies.

It was so much fun spending time with my sisters. On the weekend I went to SLC and stayed with Lisa. Todd came down from Logan and we painted her apt. It really looked great once it was done and made such a difference. I miss my sisters and can't wait till Christmas when we will all be here together. It's been awhile since everyone has been home. I was only in Utah for a week and it went by really fast. It was sad to leave, but I had a lot of fun!

I'm Finally Done!!

2008-09-20T15:15:00.004-06:00

Well I just finished my last tour-and I couldn't be happier. I was really ready to be done! Here are a couple of shots from my last couple of tours that I thought were great. The first one is with my driver and her name was Lisa Jean--funny huh? (In case you don't know my sis. name is Lisa Jean).

This one is a shot of Mt. McKinley on the way to Denali from Fairbanks on the train--and let me tell you now many people get to see this.
Anyway--my last tour wasn't that great, but I really can't blame them--everything had basically closed and we were literally the last tour of Holland America. That and it rained everyday but the last one and was pretty chilly. But really what do people expect when they buy the cheapest possible tour and come to Alaska in the middle of September. Anyway they still tipped out pretty well which I wasn't expecting, but we planned for them to go to the conservation center so they saw animals and it was sunny--so that helped I'm sure.

So now the question that everyone has is what am I doing now?? Thats still up in the air--although for the next week at least I am going out to see Sadie and the bebe and Lisa. Well Todd too if he wants to come into town--it would be good to see him. Other than that i am applying to lots of places in hopes that I get a call back. I will def. keep everyone updated when I find something. I am trying to get a job in Russia so I can become more fluent. I am looking at Tauck--they have tours going from Helsinki to St. Peters or I am looking at a Russian Embassy in Moscow. There are some others I am looking at. I am having a hard time deciding where to go--although I am really leaning towards New York! Well I gotta get back to the kiddo's--hope all is well. Ciao!

It's Raining AGAIN!!

2008-08-21T23:27:00.002-06:00

I can't even tell you how tired I am of it raining. Actually, I can't really complain because I picked up a tour in Whitehorse 9 days ago and it has been really nice--we are in Denali now and it was sunny when we got here, but now it's raining again. I hope it doesn't last! Well lets see it's been a little while--I have just been working. I have done a few tours since I last wrote. I am doing a 28 right now which is a 12 day tour--the one before that was the same tour just in the opposite direction and had no time off. I dropped my tour off at the airport and went down to baggage and picked up the new one. I thought I would get a couple of days off just to find out that I will be dropping off in Seward on Sunday and getting right back to Anchorage to pick up another 9 day tour. Thats ok I would love to go home for a couple of days, but really need the work. I haven't seen the kids for awhile and they just got back from Disneyland also Lisa is getting ready to leave and now I may not see her. I do plan on seeing Sadie once this summer is over so I can see Lisa then. Cailyn is getting so big and is just so cute I can't wait to meet her.

Well my Dad is living the dream--or whatever dream harley guys dream and is riding from AK to Mill 'wacky' as Sadie called it (nice one Sadie) and Mom is going to meet him down there then ride back with him--I think they will have a great time. Other than that I can't really think of anything else thats happening thats exciting anyway! I am still looking for a job and have been applying to different companies. I still think I want to go to New York and just may find a job as a nanny since they really do make good money and most will have housing provided. Then I can be in New York and can see if I do like it and do job searching while I am there. Its hard to interview when your not there. I don't know I will see what happens. Well thats it for now! I hope this finds everyone well--later

Working Away!

2008-07-03T12:39:00.003-06:00

So I am proving to be pretty bad at this blog thing. Anyway not much as been happening with me I have just been doing tours and trying to make as much as possible. I am pretty excited cause on my last tour I made 13oo just in tips!! Of course everything is going towards school loans now, but hey what can you do. I thought I would post some pics to show where I've been in the last couple of weeks.

This one is taking the train from Skagway to Frasier BC

This one is my favorite place in BC--Emerald Lake--so pretty! The reflection isn't usually this good so we were pretty lucky to see it this way. Just as we were leaving the wind picked up and the reflection was gone.
Can you see the bear??? He was just sitting watching us--it was pretty funny cause his head was moving with each train car that past--he just kept moving his head back and forth. We were in the last car so thats him just watching us ride away.
This is outside of Skagway a ways! It's always so nice here in this area.
Yep--thats right we just went over that bridge and it feels just as rickidy as it looks. But its a great view. What a beautiful day we had.
Well my dear family and friends--thats what I've been doing. I wish I had something more exciting, but alas I don't. Sadie's Cailyn is getting pretty big and just as cute as ever. You can see pics on her blog. Well I guess thats it for now. I will try and keep this updated more. Later all!!

Hello All!

2008-06-08T17:18:00.003-06:00

Well just thought I would drop in and give you all an update of what I've been doing. I just finished my second tour, which both went to Prudhoe Bay and even though they both went really well--I would prefer not to keep going there cause it's pretty boring. Anyway--the most exciting is watching Cailyn grow--she is growing and is finally fitting into her clothes. Here are a couple of pics that Sadie has posted--Mom just got back from staying with Sadie so I will post some of her pics. She is definatly her daddy's little girl, but I can see Sadie in there too. She is soooo cute--of course I am pretty parshal (is that spelled right??) I have to say that I have some pretty darn cute nieces and nephew's. Sadie is doing really well--except for being pretty tired, which is to be expected. I can't wait to see them in August.

These pics are along the way on my Prudhoe Bay tours. It wasn't too green, but was still pretty. We were only about 25 mi outside Prudhoe when we saw this wolf just out in the middle of nowhere--which is really weird since they tend to hang out near the mountains with tree cover. Anyway it was pretty cool to watch.
Well thats pretty much it for right now. I am in Slowdotna right now cause I have a few days off. Tonight we celebrated Braydens birthday which is tomorrow--I can't believe he is already 4. It's crazy how fast they are growing. Hope all is well and will write later.

KATIE IS HERE!!!

2008-05-31T00:09:00.002-06:00

Just really quick cause I have two hours before my online assignment is due, which is midnight!! I am in Prudhoe Bay right now and then will be back in Anchorage tomorrow then to the ship after that to drop my little sheep off then will pick up another tour 22 which is the same as the one I am doing. Ok that was a really long and incorrect sentence, but I am really at the point of not caring. The tour is going well--I am just tired and going on about 4 hours of sleep.

OK enough about me--SADIE HAD HER BABY!!! I am an auntie again. All I know so far is she was born on the 29th and was just 7 inches. Mom was pretty much in bed when I called her and Sadie was still in the hospital--so I will try and call them tomorrow. Everyone is fine and Mom says the baby is really pretty--I mean how could she not be seeing how cute Sadie and Corey both are :) Anyway I will post more when I get a chance...I am just so excited for both of you Sadie and Corey--congratulations!

I'm really still here!!

2008-05-13T23:35:00.004-06:00

Ok well I am here I have just been pretty busy and well ok I have been slacking when it comes to the blog so I will bring you up to date with what I am doing now. First as most of you probably know I graduated--finally right!! It was a good day--even though I have an online class to finish this summer I am basically done, which feels great--except with my student loans looming over me, but hey it's just something else right!! Here are some pics from the big day...
My friend Erica and I
You know these goofy looking people...
This one of my glowing sis Sadie and her gracious husband Corey (he really wanted to be home playing on his back hoe but was nice to come with Sadie--whatta guy!)
And if you couldn't guess--this is Katie--Dad's pretty excited and tried to get a few shots before Sadie could tell what he was doing. She is due on the 1rst of June, but is doing everything she can to go into labor...I think she was pacing up and down her yard today doing lunges or whatever. Come on KATIE!!!
Ok--for the past week I have been in sunny Tyler, Texas visiting Amy and family. I had a great time, but have realized that I think I prefer dry hot over humid hot--but I definately prefer hot. The weather was great most of the time. Amy took me to see this cool museum that had been there in Tyler from way back and then we also went to see the rose garden, which you will see down below. It was great seeing Amy and everyone again. I can't believe how big her kids are getting.
This is David--he's 4 and smart as a whip--he can also debate anything you tell him (something I'm sure his mother passed down to him-he he he) --but then again don't we all do that I know i'm guilty of that. I told them that they should get him on the debate team when he's older cause he will do great. He growing fast and is a great big brother to Issac. It was fun getting to know him better.
This is Issac their newest addition. When Amy say's he doesn't stop moving she is not kidding. You can always tell he's sleeping cause his legs aren't going a million miles and hour. Man this kid just can't wait to start walking. He is such a cutie and such a happy baby!
As you can see above and below are dozens and dozens of roses! This was the Rose Garden. It was amazing to see all the different kinds of roses and flowers. This garden was built back in the days of the depression (I think thats what Amy said). It was really pretty!

Well that pretty much covers it. I am home now waiting to get back up to Anchorage to start my first tour on the 17th. Well technically I start in Fairbanks so will be flying up there on the 16th. I am also going to be searching for a job/career during the summer so I have somewhere to go when I'm done this summer. That or my prince charming is welcome to come and sweep me off my feet--I would be ok with that as well.

I'm tempted to just go where I haven't been before, but then I also like to be close to family and friends. I am trying to figure out where to go and hopefully I will find the perfect job then will follow that--whatever comes first I guess. Well thats about it. Hope all is well you all and until next time--have a glorious day!!!

It's Finally Over!

2008-05-01T15:09:00.002-06:00

I am so excited that this semester is finally over. The finals are done and I feel like I did pretty well this time around. I guess time will tell--grades don't get posted for another week or so. I am starting to pack, which I am hating the more I do it, but I just can't stop wanting to move to new places. Anyway it's just a small sacrifice!! Mom and Dad get here tomorrow morning so it will be good to see them.

I can't believe I am graduating tomorrow!! I mean technically I'm not quite done, but it's better than having to walk next fall semester--so I will take it. I didn't think graduation would ever come--I really wish I would have organized my time better, but am glad that I've traveled as much as I have. Anyway just thought I would give ya'll an update of whats going on. I am going to visit Amy in Tyler for a week before going home on the 12th--then right into the tour business again. I haven't quite figured out where I am going after that, but have all summer to search for the perfect job while making money--so thats it!

Anyway I gotta get back to packing and have to stop distracting myself with things I would rather be doing. Weather here has been pretty weird, but the flowers are coming in and it's really pretty. It snowed a little yesterday and today--but it was hardly anything. It's starting to get nicer now, but it's still pretty chilly. Ok--until next time here are some flowers to brighten your day!

Sadie's Baby Shower!!

2008-04-14T15:18:00.005-06:00

Sadie had one of two baby showers this weekend. Since I won't be here for her 2nd in May I wanted to be there for the first. This one was put on by her friends with whom she works. It was done in the restaurant (it was closed--so that was nice). It wasn't big there were only about 11 people there, but Sadie did pretty well gifts wise. We played the normal baby shower games and had a good time.
Sadie is ready to have Katie, but overall is doing and looking great. Katie is moving a lot, which prevents Sadie from being too comfy at any point night and day--but is really excited to welcome the baby to the family. Here are a couple of pics that I was able to wrangle out of her. Well ok she really didn't have a choice cause I pretty much made her--so thank you Sadie for putting up with me. It was a lot of fun visiting with her. This one is Sadie just relaxing in the quiet!! Mona is REALLY quiet and she loves it!
This is all her loot!!
This was Sadie's favorite outfit and if you can't see the shoes--they are the best part--so cute
Other than that--school is going fairly well. I'm trying not to get too stressed out cause I just don't like being stressed and am working on getting all the papers and studying done for the finals in a couple of weeks. The weather here has been really nice. It was in the 80's at Sadies on Sunday and today (Monday) I swear it's just that hot again. I really hope that summer is here to stay. Well folks--my UN class is starting so I gotta go--time to talk politics...until next time--Have a wonderful week!

It's almost over!!

2008-04-10T14:13:00.002-06:00

Man I can't believe that school is almost over--it's down to weeks now! I'm just slightly freaking out over finals--well ok really stressing because I want to do well. I have actually been doing well so far and this is it! Anyway the end is in sight and I will finally get to get into a robe and funny looking hat and say goodbye to school.

Taegans birthday was yesterday! Happy Birthday little lady. I'm such a spacecase--I was going to call and wish her a happy day, but forgot by the end of the day when she would have been home. Oh well I'll call her tonight. She is six--I can hardly believe it. She is such a little grownup and is a great big sister. I remember going with Sadie to see her when she was just born and she was so little. It's crazy how fast they grow I mean look at Addi--she is walking already.

Well this is going to be short cause I just don't have anything else exciting to share! Hope all is well with you wherever you may be and have a great day!

What's Going On!

2008-03-20T20:56:00.002-06:00

Well it's Spring Break this week and it's been nice not to have to think of school--well for the most part I do have a couple of assignments to finish, but mostly can forget about it. The weather here has been really nice and it seems like summer is here--but I am just waiting for the snow to drop again cause it's been doing that off and on for the last couple months.

Amy and family were here and it was so much fun hanging out with them. You'd think I would have pictures--but could never remember to bring the camera-- but check out Amy's blog cause she posted pics. Her kids are getting so big and are so dang cute. Then a day after Amy and Jerry left for home--we were able to pick Lisa up. Sadie picked her up then we met with Todd for lunch. It was so much fun being able to talk with her and see how much she has grown. She wasn't ready to come home--but really who is when serving a mission. She seems to be getting back on her feet and is looking for a job. Besides driving mom crazy with her talking on the phone everyone is loving having her home. I really missed her and it's fun to be able to talk with her whenever now.

I am working as a cashier at Smiths Marketplace and honestly I am hating it, but it's a job and I gotta do it. I keep telling myself it's a means to an end. My school schedule is pretty crazy this semester and Smiths were the only ones willing to work with my availability anyway what can you do. I am keeping my eyes open for other openings as well as looking into other jobs career wise. I am meeting with advisors in the Travel and tourism dept at school for ideas of where to apply. The univ. just had a big job fair, but it was mostly for buisness and engineer majors so that wasn't really helpful. There is one job I am applying for that would take me back to Russia for 1-2 years depending on the contract I sign if I get it. I would work in a American Embassy and it would be really great to really up my language skills. The job requires a top secret security clearance and can take 6-15 months just to process the application. Anyway with that under my belt it would help me get into the State Department. Anyway it's just one of my options. Right now I am trying to get in with an airlines cause the flight benefits would be really great--and well how could anyone not want free air travel. Ultimately, I would like one of those jobs that travel constantly all over recruiting--training or whatever so I am trying to feel out those companies--but it's hard just knowing what those companies are.

Well thats pretty much whats going on! Hopefully everyone is doing well--until next time...

Happenings in SLC

2008-03-03T13:32:00.003-07:00

Hello All!
I am just writing a quick update! Things here are going well. It's already the middle of the semester and midterms are right around the corner. I can't believe it. Classes are going well and I feel like I'm gonna do well this semester. I am not gonna miss it though!

Sadies birthday was yesterday so I drove to Mona and surprised her with cake and the works. Corey was working and I didn't want her to be by herself. She is doing well and looks great--even though she doesn't think so. Her belly is so cute and Katie is moving around alot. The weather has been really nice and sunny so thats just an added bonus . Overall it's been a great week.
Last of all Lisa is going to be done on the 12th and I will get to pick her up and spend some time with her before she leaves for home. I am really excited to see her. I have met several people who just rave about her and how they loved knowing her. She has been a really great missionary and I am really proud of her hard work.

Well thats it for now. Hope all is well with you!

Happy Valentines Day!

2008-02-13T09:27:00.001-07:00

My mother has expressed her boredom with my post so I decided to update. Not that I can blame her, but I just don't have anything exciting going on--I wish I did. Anyway since today is Valentines Day I just wanted to wish everyone a great day!

Things here are going well. I am just going to school and can't believe that I only have 2 more months before I'm finished. Time is going pretty fast, which I'm not too sad about. I am trying to find a part-time job, but haven't had any luck with that one so I'll keep trying. Lisa is done next month too and am really excited to see her. Other than that not much else is going on--we are getting a lot of snow here, which is actually a good thing for Utah.

So I guess thats it! Enjoy your day and if you have a special someone don't forget to give 'em a little kiss or a big one it's your call.

Snowy Update

2008-01-31T16:55:00.000-07:00

So I went to class and the skies were pretty clear--the sidewalks were dry--and it wasn't even that cold outside. And hour and 20 min later I walked outside and this is what I saw..

Pretty crazy--and the funniest thing was that I didn't bring a hat or even a decent jacket so I was soaked. Anyway what can you do.

Things here are going pretty well--classes are good and I am looking for a part-time job. Other then that not much new is going on. I wish I had exciting things to share, but I just don't. Ok well thats it for now!

Hello All!

2008-01-14T13:03:00.000-07:00

I figured I would update you all on what I've been up too...First of all and most exciting is that Sadie is having a baby girl!!!! I am so excited for her and Corey and to be having another niece on the way. Thats the most exciting...

I just moved into my studio apt. and it's as small as I imagined. I will post a pic when I get it all organized and as pretty as I can. It's comfy and will due until I graduate in May. I have been staying with Debbie (friend from Ak) and it's been a lot of fun to see her again. I am in school now and getting back into the doing homework everyday--can't say Im liking it too much , but keep telling myself that it's my last semester. I'm taking a Math class that I'm pretty freaked out about since it's my last sem. and I have to do well, so we will see how that goes. So far it isn't too hard and I'm hoping it stays that way. I'm taking a digital photography class, which is going to be nice cause not only do I get to take lots of pictures I will actually know what I'm doing and how to do it better. Other than that school is good and am excited for it to be over.

Well I have to get back to work so until next time...

Happy New Years!!!

2007-12-31T22:01:00.000-07:00

Just wanted to wish everyone a wonderful New Years!! I am back in Utah and staying with my sister and her husband for a week before I start school again. I can't believe that it's the new year already--time really does fly. Russia was a lot of fun and I learned a lot, but it's nice to be back home. Salt Lake is just as I remember it and am excited to finish my last semester at school. I can hardly believe that I am almost finished--it's been a long road, but I've done a lot of things and have met people from all over the world.

I will post more pictures as soon as I can use my own computer--my sister lives in a cute little town called Mona and it's really out in the middle of nowhere--so internet for my computer won't come until Im back in Salt Lake. It's really quiet out here and it's been nice visiting with my sister--she's so cute (she's pregnant) even though she doesn't think so. I am excited for her and Corey.

Well not much else is happening with me--I hope everyone has a great night and will chat with y'll next year!

My Night in Paris!

2007-12-23T16:05:00.000-07:00

Since my layover in Paris was so long I was able to go into the city and see the sights--well a few of them anyways. One of my friends from school in Russia was there and he met me. It was really nice cause then I had someone that actually spoke French and knew the city. I was in the 4th section of the city for the most part and was able to sleep over at my friends friends apt. He was staying there and the girls let me bunk up as well. Let me tell you that was a lot better than sleeping on the floor in the airport. I wasn't able to get pics of the Louvre or the E. Tower cause I was on a bus and they didn't turn out. But was able to go right up to Nortre Dame. That was the main thing I wanted to see, but it was too late to go in. Anyway here are some pics of the little part of the city I was in...

This is the Nortre Dame Cathedral--it was so pretty up close. I will have to go back sometime so I can actually go inside. For some reason I thought it would be bigger, but it was still amazing.
This building is where the Mayor or Gov. of Paris lives--thats what my friends says anyway. Other VIP people stay there too-I think.
This is the same building in the above picture. They have build an icerink in front and actually have an igloo there. I thought that was pretty amusing. It's just for Christmas and the New Year. Russia does that too--they build outside rinks just for the celebrations then take them down.
This is a church--not sure what it's called, but thought it was pretty.
This is the Republic of France.
The pic above is of a mopehead. These things are all over the place--It seemed like there were more of these than cars. It makes sense cause the streets are really narrow. Anyway this one I thought was cool cause it's so decked out--with a roof and everything.

Write more later--gotta get on the plane!

Bad Night

2007-12-15T11:01:00.000-07:00

So this weekend is the last for many of us so we all decided to go out one last time. We went to this pub/dance club place that actually plays something other than techno and we were all having a good time until I felt something hit me on the head. I thought something fell from the ceiling, was thrown from behind me, or someone was holding something in their hand and accidently hit me in the head. My friend who was standing next to me and I starting looking around on the floor for whatever hit me and then I realized that my hand was all wet--yeah I was bleeding. It was about an inch long and straight(horizontal) and about a half inch above the top of my forehead. So my roommate turned and saw me and took me to the bathroom where I washed off--this was me walking through a whole bunch of people with blood running down my face and all over my shirt. I really freaked some people out cause it was pretty crowded and had to get pretty close to some people as I pushed myself through the crowd. Anyway got home and cleaned it off really well thinking it wasnt too bad till I got a better look and saw that, it actually was deeper than I thought. Don't worry it's still not that deep, but I got myself three stitches now and look like a quarter mummy. I went to the American Clinic and the doctor had to cut away some of the little hair I have on the top of my head to do the stitches. When it came time to putting the bandage on he couldn't get it too stick because of my hair--so he wrapped the bandage around my head so he didn't have to cut off more hair. I look like an idiot, but wasn't about to loose more hair. I already have a bald spot and am gonna be wearing hats for awhile. Anyway here I am before the stitches and after I cleaned the cut when I got back home. It looks like someone was holding a knife or something. Anyway it really didn't hurt too bad and it could have been much worse so I am thankful for that.
This is after the stitches--I go back on Mon to have them look at them. They want the stitches to stay in for at least a week, which is great cause I leave in exactly a week--man the luck some people have. I hope I can get them out a little earlier. So now I am a quarter Mummy! I've got my hair in a pony tail in the back.

Now on a happier night here are some things I saw on the way back from the clinic today. There are Christmas lights everywhere and it's really pretty. These lights are all actually for New Years since that is Russia's big holiday. They will spend about 3 days partying for New Years. Their Christmas isn't until the 7th of Jan and it's also celebrated, but just not as much. Anyway the whole city looks like this!

I am ok and not in pain, except when something pushes on the cut so other than being careful I am doing just fine. I am excited to get home next Sunday and can't wait to see all of you!

DOES IT COUNT!!!

2007-12-11T13:48:00.000-07:00

So today I went to a Birthday dinner for a friend of mine and I was nominated to buy the cake--well they are actually called torts, but resemble our cakes even though not near as good. Anyway, so the one I got was called an Italian Tort. It was really pretty and actually looked good (Russians have a great way of making their torts look to good to eat, but then well lets just say that you really cant judge a book by its cover) so I bought it. Well as I took the first bite I noticed how moist it was and thought it was a little too moist and weird tasting--after another bite I just knew and looked at the ingredients and there it was in tiny tiny writing wine and cognac. So anyway, my question is Does it Count? Ha I just had to laugh. I mean I really should have known--it would be pretty tough to go to Italy and find a cake that didnt have something in it. Oh well what can you do...

So things here are going really well. I am having a great time and am sad and really excited at the same time to go home. Sad cause I have really made some good friends here, but Im really looking forward to seeing friends and family home too. I am so glad that I found skype cause everyone that Ive met from all over seem to be on it and its a really great way to stay in touch. I cant believe that I will be going home in two weeks--it just seems so unreal. Now I am doing the wonderful task of finding a place to live. I have actually found several places that are under 300 am month so am keeping my fingers crossed. I am gonna have to settle for just a room this semester and roommates cause I really want to save money and will only be there for 5 months anyway. I'm glad that Sadie is still around cause it was really sad when Miles and Becky left, but at least I have my sister. Other than that I havent really done anything new and exciting.

Becky and Sadie have already mentioned this, but my Aunt Lenny (Dads side) has just survived a horrible tradegy. She was almost killed by her fiance's son a couple of weeks ago. He actually killed his father and would have killed Lenny had their dog not come in at the last moment. I would like to repeat what everyone is saying and say that I am so grateful that Lenny is alive and is the strong person she is cause I cant imagine going through what she is going through. She will be in the hospital for quite sometime. Everyone that visits her says she is smiling and doing her best to stay strong. I too send my love and look forward to seeing her when I get home. Family is so important--things like this make family sqabbles so unimportant and unnececary (hemhem Mom and aunt Angie and Barbra) And I would have to say my father too. Anyway Lenny is in need of your prayers so please keep her in your hearts!

Well I am gonna sign out for now...until next time!

Oh the weather outside is frightful...

2007-12-05T12:38:00.000-07:00

Ok so it's not so scary--just when the wind is blowing. We haven't gotten hardly any snow yet,which I hear is happening in the great Ak as well. Believe me I am not complaining. Tonight was really pretty and wasn't too cold cause there was no wind. Anyway last weekend (well just Friday) my roommate, her parents, and I went to Выборг (Viyborg). It's a small , but very old city in Russia and is really close to Finland. It's only about 2 hours from St. Petersburg by bus so it was neat to see it. The structures of many of the buildings is Finnish since a long long time ago Finnish actually ruled and lived here. Still today it's a popular Finnish tourist spot. Anyway, there wasn't a whole lot to see--but thats cause we mostly stayed in the older part of town. Anyway here are a couple of pictures:

This one is of a circular restaurant(upclose) and a big inside market.
This one is of the Viyborg Castle--it's of Finnish design cause they used it first for multiple reasons throughout history. This city was one of the first in Russia.
These pics below are behind my dorm building. The whiteness you see spread out is the ocean. I just thought it was a gorgeous day and thought the pics turned out well.

I especially like the sky in this one--we wanted to try to walk on the ice, but no one was brave enough to try it--the ice just didn't look thick enough.
This one is of the river that actually separated the island that I live on from the rest of the city. In the summer you have to be on one side or the other cause the bridges go up until 5 am. Anyway here they are breaking up the ice for some reason or another. This is taken on the side that I go to school.
Well there you go and the snow you see is still the snow I see when I go outside. There just isn't any snow. But hey Im ok with that. Things here are going well. I only have a couple of weeks left then I am back home. I can't believe that 4 months went so quickly. I really can't believe that 2007 is almost over. Anyway, hope all is well with you guys and hope your all having a great week. Later!

Just an update!

2007-11-28T11:59:00.000-07:00

I haven't written anything is awhile so I thought I would let ya'll know whats happening. It's been pretty cold here lately, but mostly cause of the wind. School is going well and I'm only gonna teach two more times. My Russian is getting better, but it's hard when everyone is wanting to speak English with me--but I'm trying to hold strong and speak Russian. Anyway nothing new is actually happing--I wish I had something exciting to tell you all, but what can you do.
This is a picture taken behind our dorm. It's really cold and windy here, but was a gorgeous day!
And this is my roommate Luisa and I--enjoying the sunshine--not that we can actually feel it or anything.
The next two are me and friends out on the town.

Well everyone hope all is well and just have to say that I'm loving the pictures your putting on your blogs. I love seeing what everyone is up to. Till next time...

I went to the OPERA!

2007-11-17T13:58:00.001-07:00

Some friends and I went to the Opera last weekend. It was really pretty and the costumes were gorgeous. The story was a fairytale of sorts and it was fun to listen to it in Russian. Luckily there were subtitles!! Yeah, above the stage there was this video thing that showed the subtitles--it was nice because I was able to understand everything that was going on. Anyway here are some pics of the theater.

Other than going to concerts, plays, and opera's things have been going well. Ok I made that sound like all I am doing is going to those kinds of things, which I'm not--BUT I have gone to one of each and have a couple more coming up. We are hoping to go out into the country soon to see yet another palace and see the sights there. Thats been one of the best things I've done is see the different palaces and historical places around St. Peters--It's really been great!

English class is going well. I actually have three different groups one on Thurs. night and two on Friday. Two of the groups speak really well and have plenty of questions about American stuff and it's been fun comparing the different cultures. Class for me is going well--my Russian has been improving..at least I can say more now than I could when I first got here. It's a challenging language, but am enjoying learning it and hope to cont. to get better.

I miss everyone and can't wait to see you guys in Dec/Jan!!! Later

Found a Graveyard!!

2007-11-07T14:04:00.000-07:00

Some friends and I wanted to go for a walk then find somewhere to eat. On the way we took what we guessed was a shortcut and it turned out to be a huge graveyard. It was really neat to see it cause its not like the graveyards I have seen at home. Well most of it anyway and its really not saying much since I haven't seen all the graveyards, but this one reminds me of what you would see in a witch movie or something scary. But it wasn't creepy or anything it was (as Becky put it) peaceful to walk through. It was really huge and we didn't go through all of it, but I took some pics of the different parts. Some parts are completely grown over the graves and some are taken care of (cut grass and so forth). Anyway here are some pics...
Oh yeah and the white little specks you are seeing is what I am sure you already know is snow! For the past several days is has done a little bit of snowing then would stop. Its like mother nature is just gearing up to dump it on us.

This is just Julia (Italy) and I after we found our way out of the graveyard. I think I have decided which language I want to learn next and now I have people that I can stay with now. I mean who doesn't want to see Italy?
Well as for me everything here is going well. I am just going to school (almost everyday anyway hee-hee). I have started to--well its not really teaching, but conducting an English speaking class. It's so the students can have someone to speak Russian with. I had my first two classes last Friday and it was actually a lot of fun. My first group are beginners so they struggle, but overall understand quite a bit. They want me to talk about shopping this coming Friday and I really don't know what to talk about. Anyway my next group are advanced speakers and they want to talk more on buisness and school related topics. This next week the advanced class wants me to explain to them the rules of football HA that'll be interesting. To me all I see are a bunch of padded men running into eachother every couple of minutes trying to get the ball to the other side. Oh and you know can anyone explain to me why the US is the only country in the WORLD that had to change the real name of football (aka soccer)? I just don't understand it. Anyway so thats going well.

Anyway, hope all is well with you and will chat later.

Oldest City in Russia

2007-11-01T01:41:00.000-06:00

Well its the first city anyway. Last weekend we went on a trip to Novogorod and went around to the different highlights of the city and it was great. It's not the most gorgeous city, but was pretty and had a lot of history. There were so many church-so many in fact I think it beats Provo and thats saying something. Most of them are not used anymore and are just sitting there, but I was able to go into a couple of them. Anyway here is what I saw...
This one below is a church from the 14th or 15th cent. I can't remember which, I would have take more pics, but they didn't like me doing that so...what can you do.
This is the inside of another church!

This one is so Russian--out in the country this is how people do laundry. It was so cold outside--well ok not cold cold, but too cold to be working with cold water doing laundry.

Well thats Novogorod for ya!

Good thing I'm not claustrophobic!

2007-10-27T00:46:00.000-06:00

Well first thing--I kinda got a job teaching English. It's only for a couple times a week, but pays pretty decent and I'll get to meet more Russians. So my first day going there I had to go by metro. It was like rush hour or something cause when I got there there was a HUGE amount of people just trying to get into the door. See people here don't wait in line--they all bunch together like a big mosh pit and just barrel through. The the time we were inside, which isn't a big space, there were so many people I was practically being crushed. Well ok I guess it wasn't that bad, but just imagine a room that can hold 25 people max-well this room had about 60--it was crazy if I were to jump in the air I would have been suspended in mid air and been held up by all the other people surrounding me. I couldn't help, but laughing--just imagining Mom being there or someone that likes their space. It's a good thing I can deal with people in my space or else I would've really freaked out. Anyway it was really funny.

You know what else is funny here--or just plain crazy are shoes. Women here love their shoes and not just any shoes but high heels on whatever kind of shoe. For the most part it's ALL they wear. And not just for a while, but ALL day. A girl once said that the pain doesn't matter, but the shoe has to look good. I mean girls at school are wearing these hooker heels and have them on all day and these people walk everywhere. One of the first things a woman looks at when they see me are my shoes--I mean when a woman looks at another woman they always look at the shoes. I think they are all crazy--if Im gonna be walking all day I'm wearing comfy shoes. Anyway just another tidbit about Russian fashion.

Well tomorrow I am going to Novogorod with a bunch of friends. This town is the first established town in Russia. It has a ton of history so it should be a lot of fun. Other than that things here are going well. Can't believe it's already November-well almost anyway! Ciao

I've been Tagged!

2007-10-24T08:58:00.000-06:00

Alright here are six quirky things about me...

1. When I see a pile of papers, magazines, whatever I always have to straighten them. Sometimes I'll be in a teachers office or someones home and find myself going for piles on the desks, counters, etc. I usually catch and restrain myself, but if no one is looking I will do it anyway.

2. I hate spiders and when I see them I really freak out. I have gotten better from living in UT and have gotten to the point of being able to kill them. I hate the crunching sound they make and usually have to make a loud noise so I can't hear it and fast so I can't feel it. But the weird thing is I like to look at them in books, on the discovery channel, or if their caged--I am somewhat fascinated by them, but can't deal with them running around.

3. I have this really annoying (to me even) twitch where when eating chips, popcorn, something like that I tap (several times) my hand into whatever I'm eating. It's just with dry stuff in a bag like I mentioned earlier. I don't even notice I'm doing it until someone asks what the heck I'm doing and if I do realize it myself I still do it--I really don't understand it. Any suggestions on how to stop would be great.

4. If I see hair on someone else's clothes I always have to pull it off even if I don't know the person. I can usually do it without them realizing it. The same goes for the tags sticking out of shirts and if a necklaces clasp is showing. However with the two last things I can restrain myself especially if I don't know the person.

5. I like scary movies--the really suspenseful kinds. I don't like the gory stuff, but if I turn to something like that on TV I have a hard time turning it. I have always been somewhat fascinated by serial killers--just trying to understand what makes a person do such horrible things to another human being. But again I know if I watch it then I will end up putting myself into a dream just like the movie and lets just say I don't have a good nights sleep.

6. Last of all I can't walk on the covers of man holes in the street or sidewalk. Even if its clear that its all covered and wouldn't open I just can't do it. I suppose it stems from my mission when I wasn't paying attention and actually walked on one that was only covered a quarter and my leg fell in being scraped the whole way down (till I hit the ground anyway) I am lucky I didn't fall in all the way, but to still scares me to death.

Well thats it. I am tagging Erik and Angela, Amy and Jerry, Miles and Bex, Sadie and Corey, Reed and Annie, and Erica. Here are the rules of the game:

A. The rules of the game are posted at the beginning.

B. Each player lists 6 facts/habits about themselves.

C. At the end of the post, the player then tags 6 people and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged and asking them to read your blog.

I went skating!

2007-10-21T03:35:00.000-06:00

Last night I went skating. I can't even tell you how long it's been since I have been on skates. I can assure you that I was probably worse than Brayden when he first got on skates--but I didnt fall down. It was a lot of fun--i'd really like to be good again with skating I think Id like to do it more often. We went with about 6 other girls and so it was fun to help each other skate. A few of them already knew how and would hold on to those that couldnt. I stuck close to the wall cause I wasn't going to fall. My roommate was going past me pretty fast and looked at me and laughed cause at that time I was practically hugging the wall (i'd had just got on the ice for the first time in I don't know how long and was terrified--I mean we have all seen what it looks like when a fat person falls and can't get up--now just imagine what that looks like with skates on) anyway so as she laughed her skate caught on the ice and she went flying forward and landed on her stomach with her arms and legs spread out. I thought my head was going to explode I was laughing so hard. It was the funniest thing I had seen in a long time--and I don't feel bad for laughing cause she would have done the same to me--I mean come on we all would have. But what was worse for her was there was this guy a little ways ahead of where she fell and he had been teaching his son (he looked about Braydens age-all decked out in his gear) how to do different moves or whatever you call them and they both started to crack up. Anyway it was well worth the night of hugging the wall--ok I moved away from it for a few minutes at a time, but I wasn't taking any chances.
Anyway so thats it for that. Things here have been going well and we are just exploring all over the city. We are organizing a trip to Novogorod, which is about 3 or so hours from here on bus, but is the first established city in Russia--and we know a guy that will take us there (he's from there) and show us around. In a week I will be going to my first Opera--can't say Im too excited, but I hope that Im wrong. I also have a ballet, concert, and play that Im going to so of course Ill talk more on those as they come.

This next pic is of a museum of where we will be seeing a play by Chekov and I thought the horses coming off the roof looked pretty cool.
This next one is of Luisa and I in a park--practically all the parks look like this one and it's a great place to just think or read a book or feed the pigeons cause there are tons. Anyway its too cold to just sit now, but it's pretty to walk through.
Well thats it for now. I send my love to you all and hope that everyones having a great weekend. "Peace Out" as my German friends love to say to me!

Climbing St. Issac Cathedral!!!

2007-10-20T13:24:00.000-06:00

A few days ago I went to the St. Issacs Cathedral and Lusia (my roommate) and I climbed to the top--there were over 200 stairs so that was a lot of fun, but not as bad as I thought. Once we got to the top it was so pretty and so worth the climb. We could have gone higher but the stairs were closed off. Anyway here are some pics of the view from the top as well as from the bottom...

In this pic if you look right across the river you can see where I go to school--anyway you can also see a wedding if you look really close in the park. Can you see them--look for the little white dot. It's tradition that during the wedding that the whole party go to one or more statues and put flowers on the statue--it's like paying tribute. So every Sat. and Sun you can see wedding parties all over the place.

I thought these stairs were pretty cool--it's like this all the way down.
This is the view directly across the Cathedral that you saw in the first pic. St. Petersburg is filled with this kind of stuff.
Ok well thats it for now. I will write more soon...

Just another day!

2007-10-17T06:11:00.000-06:00

Hello Everyone, So this is me at the Tsarskoye Selo or the Tzars Country Palace. Things here are going really well. We had a lot of fun at the country palace and it was really beautiful. The weather is getting really rainy and cold and snow is supposed to fall any day now. I hear that the first snow isn't too bad cause it usually warms up after for awhile. Anyway these pics were all taken in the same palace and I apoligize that some are sideways I forgot to change them before I saved them. Anyway hope you are all having a wonderful week.
This one below is getting ready for a ball of some sort. I am assuming it's for someone really rich cause it's not a place that has parties all the time. We were unable to find out who was hosting the party. It was really pretty there.
This is the main entrance before seeing the rest of the inside.
I just thought this chair was pretty cool not to mention really uncomfortable.

We were walking around the part outside and found this bridge on a lake--quaint isn't it!

This place is so long it was hard to talk a pic of it all so just take my word for it. Its at a block or so long and thats just one whole side of her. Anyway use your imagination--ITS HUGE!Ok folks thats it for now! I do have some more coming up from when we climbed to the top of St. Isaccs Cathedral (over 200 stairs) wheew that was fun. Anyway stay tuned for next time...

The Church of the Resurrection of Christ

2007-10-08T05:24:00.000-06:00

This church also goes by and is used more as Saviour on the Spilled Blood. This church is incredible inside as its completely covered in a mosaic in total of 7,000 sq. meters. It was started in 1883 and finished in 1907. I tried to take pics that would show you what it looked like...hope you enjoy!

This last pic was when I was walking home and I thought it was really pretty with the reflection in the water. It turned out a little fuzzy cause there was a lot of wind, but all in all it turned out alright. This is where I catch the metro and is about 2 mi from where I live.

More Pics!

2007-10-06T08:31:00.001-06:00

Hello everyone, these pics are from when we went to the St. Peter Fortress and also went to a friends b-day party. Just scroll down and I'll explain...

This pic is of my roomate and I. Her name is Luisa and she's from Florence Italy. Shes really sweet not to mention hilarious. Just today she was trying to drink out of her water bottle (which is about a gallon) and it slipped and it went flying forward and spilled all down the wall behind her bed. Her face was priceless as she yelled and went flying forward to catch it before all her BOUGHT water was gone. Yep, we buy all our water here--we even have to brush our teeth with it. The water here is really bad. The next pic is of the Fortress of St. Peter.
This pic is a sign that is posted at the Fortress and it shows everything thats forbidden while your there. The one Im pointing to I thought was cute--if you can't tell its someone stepping very animately off a building committing suicide apparently. It's a good thing I saw that sign cause I was seriously thinking of climbing to the top a building and walk off.

So the one on top is just of the River there--I can't think of the name I think its the Heva river??? Anyway we were on our way to the fortress and had to walk across a big bridge. Thats the fortress behind me. The one below is of the HUGE statue of a guy and I couldn't figure out who he is--I am sure someone of importance. But it's with me and Luisa (roomate), Francesca (who is also from Florence, Italy).
This one is of Liz who lives in our dorm room, David--just a friend--,me and Francesca. We are celebrating a birthday party for Babs--who just happens to be in the next picture. She and I have been in the same class and is from Bulgaria.
This one is also of the same River on the way to the Fortress.
Well there you go. I have some more, but am gonna wait so I can space them out. There is so much to see in the city, but Im gonna try to get to all of it. It's all part of the experience right. Well until next time...

Peterhoff with Fountains!

2007-10-05T08:06:00.000-06:00

I have already been to Peterhoff and have posted pics, but the fountains weren't working so we went back and it was really cool--so I took more pics. It's almost a different place with them working. So anyway here are some new pics...

Well there you go--Its such a great place and I haven't even been inside yet. I am saving that for something to do in the winter time. Things here are going great. I'm having a good time at school.

It's soooo hot!

2007-10-01T08:21:00.000-06:00

Well ok I guess I should explain--my room is really hot. Out heaters started working, which is a good thing that they even work cause when it's freezing outside it's gonna help, but right now it's not exactly freezing and we are dying in our room. We can only open one window, but hey what can you do?

Things here are going well. I haven't written in awhile so I thought I would catch you all up. I have finally found a class (after moving two times) and class that is closer to my level. I know cause I don't understand everything going on, which kinda sucks but it encourages me to learn.

Today we went to IKEA and it was great. There is this huge mall (like at home) and even though I don't like malls it was still fun to go. I can't wait to go to the one in SLC they are the best stores. So something is going on with my pictures so I am trying to figure that out before I get new ones posted. Next weekend we are going to Pavlosk and then we are planning a short trip to Novogorod and I will tell more after the fact. Honestly that is all thats going on right now. I hope to have more pics up soon and will write more later.

Hey Everybody!

2007-09-21T11:51:00.000-06:00

So theres this event out at Peterhof that happens twice a year. It's a fireworks show so we thought we would go. It takes about 40 min on the Metro to get to the bus which takes about an hour to get out there. It was gorgeous. This is the place with all the fountains and that staircase with all the statues. Anyway we happened to get out there right after they turned off the fountains for the day. Oh well what can you do. So I was able to get some good pics and will go back sometime again and actually go inside--this trip was just to walk around the grounds, which are incredibly large.
So after walking around for about three hours it was time for the show to start. Anyway what we didn't realize is that it was only time to get out tickets and go into the park and wait for the actually show to start. SO that was fun--we waited for another two and a half hours--in the rain. We just hated to think if we left that it was be this really cool show and it was kinda fun to see the thousands of people gather where we are standing below. I couldn't get a pic of all the people cause it got too dark. Anyway, after waiting around being wet the show started and it was ok, but not great. So we left early, which turned out to be a great idea cause it would have taken much longer to wait for everyone to get a bus. It was a fun night and we had a lot of laughs. So this last one if you can't tell is Shelly, Liz, and I snuggling under the umbrella waiting for the show to start. Unfortunatly, Shelly's husband got kicked out and got to take the picture. It was pretty fun. Oh I guess I should introduce them. Liz (from Omaha) is my dormmate--not my roomate, but shares my dorm room. And Shelly and her hubby Brian are from Logan. They are a lot of fun to hang out with. I'm working on getting other friends pics I just don't think about it while we are all together.
So--what else? Oh yeah! we have hot water now. Acually it's been a great day cause we got our internet hooked up. So yeah we didn't have hot water for a little over a week and it was supposed to be for another week so we were glad it was turned on today. It's a lot of fun filling up all our teapots and pots with warm water only to pour them over ourselves. I was and am prepared for this to happen again--cause it happens a lot here.

So thats it for now! Let me know how your all doing. If you haven't looked Amy had her baby and he is so cute. Also Becky has been putting so really good pics up as well so take a look.
Later for now!

It's getting colder here!!

2007-09-13T04:22:00.000-06:00

So every night here seems like it's getting colder and colder, which isn't a good thing. I think that it's darker here than Alaska, which also isn't a good thing. BUT Im having a blast and that's all that matters. So we are going on our first excursion with the group I came over with--well I should say the people who also came over with the same program. Anyway we are going out to the country somewhere to Pavlovsk and Tsarskoye selo (village) -imperial residences so that should be a lot of fun. Even for as poor as people are here it's amazing the palaces and cathedrals that are here they are so ornate.

School is good--although I only have one class so I am looking into working or teaching english or something to pass the rest of the day away. I just got a roomate so I am no longer in my own room, which was sad, but she's really nice. She is from Florence (Italy) and she really doesn't speak English so we just speak in Russian, which is good for the both of us. There are now four of us in a dorm with two bedrooms and one toilet and bath. There is also one kitchen and that consists of a very teeny tiny refridgerator and that makes it hard to buy our own food so we have to eat out a lot. But then again thats not so bad either because Russia has mostly cafe's and regular restaurants that serve fairly healthy food. There are Mc'ds everywhere and I have found a Subway and KFC, but haven't eaten there yet. We like to try different cafes--oh yeah Sushi has really taken off here and there are sushi bars almost everywhere so we have eaten a lot of that too. Anyway I guess what I am trying to say is that eating out here is almost just like eating at home cause it's all pretty much prepared the same way. They don't deepfry a lot of food here in fact hardly ever do I see that.

Well--what else do you want to know? If there are certain places you would like pics of please let me know I would be happy to go. One thing here I didn't miss was the transportation system. Here when you ride the bus you have to be able to push, shove, bite (just kidding), and be able to stand within inches of someone else. They have no max. limit its just how many can possibly fit in. Especially in the am when everyone is going to work or school--people will crowd in so much that by the time they are all in sometimes the doors don't shut and someone has to ride with his butt sticking out--I AM NOT KIDDING! It's hilarious. When it's that full you have to know when your stop is and have to start asking everyone "are you getting off" if not they move if they can and you just push yourself through the mass of people. It's hard for the little people and just funny with my big butt--but what can you do, but smile and get through it. However, if they had any sense you could wait another 5 or 7 minutes and get on the next one. I will never understand it.

Well I guess that's enough for now. I hope everyone is doing well. Miss you!

The Hermitage

2007-09-10T04:05:00.000-06:00

We went to the Hermitage last Thursday and we barely touched it, but saw some really cool things. They say if you spent 5 min in each room it would take you 5 years to see each room. It's that big. The rooms were amazing and so ornate. Here are some pics from what we saw...

Anyway there is a little taste of the Hermitage--I will go again and hopefully be able to spend some more time there. It really was neat. This next pic is a pretty veiw of the sunset thats about 10 min walking from where I live.

Well thats it for now..more later!

St. Peters is Great

2007-09-08T09:55:00.000-06:00

This city of 5 million is pretty cool. It's so big and we have been going all over on the metro then will walk for an hour or more and can't even cover that much area--there is so much to see. St. Peters has so much history. We went into the Hermitage the other day and it was really neat. I have pics and will post them when I can. I can't wait to go to Peterof--the place with all the golden statues and fountains. The weather here has been nice, but nightime is getting colder--I hope the winters here aren't too bad cause we have to walk a lot, which isn't a bad thing for me. Anyway I am having a lot of fun.

Well friends and family I hope everything is going well with you--I would love to hear from you and find out how your doing!!! Later for now

Hey everyone!

2007-09-02T06:09:00.001-06:00

Well I finally was able to hook my laptop to the internet and so here are some pics of where I have been and where I live. This first one is my room!! Pretty cool huh!

These next two are of my bathroom--or should I say toilet and shower/sink. And then my huge kitchen, which I won't use until I do a major cleaning cause it's preety nasty right now. All I can say is that I am glad I've lived in Russia and I knew what to expect or else I would be freaking out right now. Actually it's not that bad I mean what can you do--just make the best out of it right?? (sorry about the pics being sideways I forgot to fix them before I loaded them)

This one is the building I will be studying in. The campus i guess you can call it is pretty huge and that means a lot of walking--which is a good thing for me. But this is where my classes will be--I think anyway.

Here you are looking at the escalator that goes from the Metro to above ground. It's like this for all Metros (subways). This pic was take already a quarter the way up--it's really long. All I can say is that it would really suck for this baby to break down.

These two pic's are from across the street from the University. I have yet to learn what they are called, but will soon enough. St. Peters is really pretty and there is so much history.

Well thats all for now--I will post more later as I take them. I will also take requests if there is something you would like to see--believe me I would love any excuse to go exploring. Later All!

St. Peters is HUGE

2007-09-02T05:34:00.000-06:00

I had no idea how large St. Petersburg really was. I mean to look at a map is so crazy. Anyway I am getting my bearings and am able to get around ok. I start school tomorrow so I am looking forward to that. I have yet to find somewhere to download my pics so I will keep working on that. There are a couple of other internet cafes I want to try. So one of my bags is still missing--the one with all my clothes--so I am hoping that comes soon. I called about it today and they said it should come in around 4pm so we will see. I am glad that I brought a couple different shirts with me just for that reason.

Russia is just as I remember it. The people are just as I remember them and I think it's gonna be great here. I hope everyone is doing well and I will post later.

Im Almost There

2007-08-29T05:14:00.000-06:00

Well I am sitting in the airport in Paris waiting for my flight to St. Peters. The flight from Seattle really wasn't that bad--it went by really fast. The seat I was in was pretty comfy--I was able to lay down and put my feet up. I am pretty tired right now cause at home it's about 3am and here its just after 1pm. My next leg of the trip will be about 5 hours and then I will be there. Well I don't have anything too exciting to share yet, but have promised to keep you all updated. I'll put a pic on of the seat I was on when I get a chance. I know it's dorky, but for someone who always flies coach this was pretty nice. There was my own little tv that came out of the seat and all sorts of other things. I got everything down to the little wet towel they give you. Anyway I will always like to hear about what you are doing so keep in touch as I will do my best to do the same. Later for now!

I'M DONE!!

2007-08-24T18:37:00.000-06:00

Well I am finished for the summer. I just dropped my last tour off yesterday and am trying to get home. I was supposed to fly out of Skagway at 7 am, but there was bad weather so I am now here at Juneau and am on standby cause I missed my flight. I am really hoping I can get out tonight cause I hate sleeping in airports--so uncomfortable. Anyway I had a great summer, but am really glad to be done. I met so many really neat people and was able to hang out somewhat close to home. I am so excited to go to Russia and it's coming up so soon I just hope I can get home. I fly out again on the 28th. Anyway I just wanted to update this thing. I wish I had interesting things to say. Give me a couple of weeks and I'll have some fun things to look at. I hope everyone is enjoying their summer. Later for now!

Where did summer go?

2007-08-08T01:23:00.000-06:00

Man I can't believe how fast summer is going by. I have only one tour left then I am done with Holland and off to my next adventure. I finish on the 23rd then fly home from Skagway on the 24th then fly to Russia on the 28th. I was hoping to spend a few more days at home, but really needed the work--so what can you do? Things are going well. My tours have been good and I have met a lot of really cool people--and of course some not so cool people, but that just comes with the job. I think that after these two summers I now have a place to stay in almost every state as well as in at least 3 other countries. It's been fun. I am thinking I would love to be a tour director, but internationally--I mean what could be better than travel the world while getting paid for it.

Well anyway ta ta for now!

I Jumped into the ARCTIC OCEAN!!!

2007-07-29T16:07:00.000-06:00

Yep thats right I jumped in...well actually it was more like sat down cause it was so shallow and I was freezing(but got wet from head to toe). I was able to get a few of my guests to go in with me and we all had a great time. It really wasn't too bad--not as cold as I thought it would be. I guess it helps that the sun was shining and it was warm (for Prudoe Bay anyway).

So I am starting my first of three tours that I have left this summer. I can't believe how fast time is going by--I am so excited to go to Russia. Not much else is going on I am just waiting for the train to come. Hope everyone is doing well and I will write later. Hope your enjoying your summer!

The water was so cold, but really it was a blast to jump in with my people. The water was so shallow that I could have gone much further and it wouldn't have mad a difference.

This is the haul road behind me. It took us two 8 hour days to drive. The entire road looks like this. The pipeline right alongside it. It was a good tour though we had fun.

Some Pic's for your viewing pleasure!

2007-07-08T13:56:00.001-06:00

So I have been asked to post some pics of myself at work and thought that it wouldn't be very pretty, but hey here they are anyway. I am in Denali right now and it's a free day for my people so I am just catching up on sleep and lounging around. Thats pretty much all I can do. I can't believe how fast the summer is going--it's just crazy. Not much is going on with me--Im just working and that's pretty much it.

Anyway here are some pics....

This is on the way to Anchorage. I try to get group pics here cause it's sooo pretty.

Can you find me??? This is Chicken AK--yep and what your looking at is it. There is a population of about 12 and thats pretty much in the summer.

This is the portage glacier--we were really hoping it would calve, but no luck.

This is the Pipeline right outside of Fairbanks. I cant remember if I was coming or going, but get to stop here ALL THE TIME!! I can tell you it never gets old!! Yeah ok so it gets old, but what can you do??

Well so there you go. I have to go now to meet my peeps from their 8 hour ride into the park--so I will keep you updated. Hope your all having a great summer. Later

Some

2007-07-08T13:56:00.000-06:00

Yep Im still here!

2007-06-21T23:22:00.002-06:00

Hello everyone,
So I am getting ready to pick another tour up tomorrow and am hanging out with Carrie. She's so good to me to put me up for the few days that I am in town. So far the summer has been going well. I have had a lot of fun with my groups so far and haven't wanted to kill any of them. Well with the exception of a couple people, but other than that I have no complaints.

I can't believe how fast the summer is going. It's already Summer Solstice, which means that the days are going to get a lot shorter really soon. I'll be in Russia before I know it. I can't wait for that. Anyway I don't have any really exciting news about myself. My niece was blessed and is just as cute as she can be. If you would like to see a pic of her blessing picture you can click on the Hansen link and you'll see her.

Well I hope everyone is doing well. I will keep you updated. Later for now!

Yep Im still here

2007-06-21T23:22:00.001-06:00

Im in Skagway!!!

2007-06-10T00:47:00.000-06:00

Sorry it's been so long since I have written. I just dropped a tour off today and have a couple of days to regain my sanity. Acutally I had a great tour group and nothing to horrible happened on my tour. I did have one guest that drove everyone crazy, but being nice paid off cause she gave me a great tip in the end, which I wasn't expecting since she was European. Those guys just don't tip and well anyway. SO I am here in Skagway and will sleep for a couple of days then start again. This summer has been beautiful so far and the weather's been great. Dawson City was in the 90's this week and I really wished I could have been there. Well I just wanted to drop in and say hello and will put some pics on here tomorrow and will do my best to keep this thing updated. Take Care Everyone.

The Tourists Are Here!

2007-05-24T12:38:00.000-06:00

I just finished my first tour and Im glad its over. Holland is still getting its stuff together and so things weren't running very smoothly. As a tour director, we are like walking customer service desks--what can you do. I am in Fairbanks right now for a couple of days then will fly to Skagway to pick up my next tour. Overall things are going well with me.

However, something much more exciting is that my niece was born. She was born the day after I had to leave, but she is here and is incredibly beautiful.

Meet Addison Maria (3 days old)

Here she is right after she was born

The proud parents. She is so cute.

Taegan is really excited about her little sister. She knew all along that it would be a little girl. She will be a lot of help to her Mom & Dad. Brayden is a proud big brother too.

So far Addison is the real exciting thing thats going on, but will keep you all updated. Later!

Howdy

2007-05-16T01:12:00.000-06:00

Hello! Well it's been a few days since I have checked in. I am getting ready to start my first tour in 2 days so am on my way up to Anchorage tomorrow for that. It's been fun being at home. Ive been able to take care of my niece and nephew which as been a blast. Becky (sister-in-law) is scheduled to have her baby Thursday morning and am really bummed Im gonna miss it. But will be back down here for a few days at the end of the month. I am still pretty lucky to be here in the same state. Anyway, Ive posted some pics for all to enjoy. These first ones are of Taegan and Brayden at a farm we went to. Taegan was more willing to get really close to the animals. Brayden had some reservations and chose to watch from a close distance. Anyway both had a really fun time.

Taegan was loving the animals. She really had fun feeding the horse and pretended to milk the cow. Brayden tried a couple of times, but anytime the horse would get closer he would back up. He ended up just tossing the food to the horse hoping the horse would catch the food. It was really cute. Taegan was pretty good with the cow not too many kids got as close as she did.

If you cant tell Brayden is contemplating whether or not if he's going to touch the cow. Taegan was being a good sis and was offering to help him. Even though he decided not to he really liked the cow (well all the animals actually)

Now below are some pictures of a condo I stayed at while training for a tour to Homer this summer. Usually they just have us stay at the hotel where our guests will be staying, but they put us up in these Condo's, which were amazing. They were all different and very beautiful. I just took a few pics. This condo had three bedrooms and was three stories. I didn't get the bedrooms, but they were incredible as well and very comfy.

Here is the Harley Man!! Dad has finished his safety training and is getting as much time on the bike as he can. He is doing really well and is having a blast. He is probably wishing he had gotten one a long time ago. He and is friend Dennis are planning big trips with their new bikes this summer and the following months.

Isn't he cute!

Well thats it for now. I will check in later. I hope everyone is having a great summer. Later

Some Pic's for your viewing pleasure!

2007-05-09T22:59:00.000-06:00

Hello All! Well here are some pictures of what Ive been up too. Basically it all has to do with my niece and nephew which I have been loving. I can just be a kid and play all day with them it's been a lot of fun. Becky gets to play to from the couch--but hey thats something right?? For her sake I hope she has the baby soon we are all ready for the bundle of joy to grace us with her/his presence.

Here Brayden and Taegan are giving me their best pic smiles, which was pretty hard since they love making funny faces and because Brayden had just stuffed about 5 skittles in his mouth and is trying to smile. I figured I had better do it before they started with the silly faces.

This picture is pretty much summed up into two words "WIPED OUT"

On this one do your best to ignore the face in the middle!

Note to whoever wishes to have a bubble bath in a tub with jets--USE LESS BUBBLES THAN YOU NORMALLY WOULD!!! But they had a great time so no harm done.

This wasn't planned, but it looks like Taegan is wearing a big fluffy shawl over her head and Brayden is wearing a big white coat.

HERE THEY ARE!!! Don't they look great

Dad say's he has only had red meat about 10 times in the last year!!! Amy I know close your mouth--you too Becky :) And he eats sushi too and loves it.

Just ignore the white socks everybody--I wasnt going to say anything is was like pulling teeth to get they guys to get dressed again (if you can't tell it's almost 10 pm) Anyway I got the whip out and just pestered them until they got dressed. Oh I almost forgot--Dad is starting his biking class tomorrow and he got all dressed up for me. So here is your last pic for the night. I have to pack 'cause Mom and I are leaving tomorrow morning for Anchorage at 4:30 am so I get to work. Hope everyone is doing well. Later for now!

Hi

2007-05-08T22:37:00.000-06:00

Well as most of you know I think anyway I am back in Alaska for the summer. I love being here in the summer. I have been home for almost a couple of weeks now and will be starting work with Holland America in a day. I have been able to help my sister in law for the time Ive been home with her kids. Poor girl is on bed rest(She's due at the end of the month, but is hoping to have the baby now) and so I get to come over to keep her company and try to keep her from going crazy from laying down all day and I get to play with her kids during the day. She feels bad, but she's crazy--I love that family and don't mind at all. ( You hear that Becky I really don't mind!!!) Besides kids grow up so fast--time really flies. We have been going out to Haney and Hansen's (Grandma and Grandpa Hansen if you couldn't tell) house almost everyday to see Mom's new baby chicks and of course play with our three dogs. Brayden usually bee-lines it to the chicken house with Taegan close behind to search for eggs and usually find a few. It's so funny watching Brayden carrying them back cause he's just taller than our dogs and he holds the eggs above his head saying No Bob! or No Oakley! My eggs Not yours! It's so funny.

Things are going really well. Im not ready to start work yet, but have to start sooner or later. I have some pic's I'll post hopefully tomorrow. Dad has been showing off all his biker gear and got all dressed up. Hopefully I can get a pic of him on the bike tomorrow so you can get the full effect. It's really great watching dad--he's like a little kid on Christmas morning talking about the different things he's planning for bike rides and different things he wants for the bike. Mom of course just smiles and rolls her eyes--but I know she secretly wants one of her own.

Well thats it for now. Hope everyone is doing well. Later

Im Outta Here

2007-04-28T15:00:00.000-06:00

Well I am on to bigger and better things. Well I don't know about bigger, but anything (I have decided) is better than school. I have finished my semester and am sitting in the Seattle airport waiting for my flight. I will be home for a little over a week then am off to be a tour director again. I am hoping for great things this summer. I will do my best to keep this updated--I am not that great at it yet as most of you know. Also when I go to Russia in August this will be a way for you to see what I am doing there--so take a look every now and then.

Anyway just thought I would drop in and leave you a note. I dont have much to write yet so I won't bore you any longer. Hope this finds everyone doing well. Later

Isn't she CUTE

2007-04-13T12:43:00.000-06:00

Here is one of the Cutest girls ever. Things here are going well and fast. I only have a couple of weeks left. Today is my last day at work and I am not too sad about it. I have to take 3 finals early so I can leave by the 28th so I am getting hit hard with school and studying--my favorite two things!!! Anyway it'll be over soon and will be back in AK. Well I hope everyone is doing well. Later

Time is Flying!

2007-04-07T10:34:00.000-06:00

I can't believe how fast time is going by. I can't believe we are already going onto the second week of April. I get to go home in just a few weeks and am really excited. It'll be fun to see all the Hansen's again. I am really missing Becky, Miles, and the kids it was a lot of fun to be able to have family close by. I still have Sadie for a little while even though she is gone most of the time. Lisa is actually the closest as she lives not too far from me (I don't know exactly, but she says its close) to be honest I don't want to know. Anyway things here are going well. Trying to stay focused with school and working. Nothing too exciting here.

I am excited for this summer. Anyway I just wanted to jump in and say hello. Hope everyone is having a glorious day!

Yea! I finally got the pictures on!

2007-03-29T20:03:00.000-06:00

Here are some pic's from Taegans Princess Party The terror being terrorized by another fellow terror

Sorry Becky I couldn't resist--I love this picture you two are so cute...not to mention wiped out!

The head princess at her Princess Party

Brayden's gonna get this thing open with one hand!!!

Taegan and I

Yea!!! I can finally add pictures. I just had to switch my web browser. All right well here is just the first one I tried--I will add some more. The one above for my friends who don't know these other gorgeous girls are my sisters. From me it's Lisa and then Sadie. The rest are some pic's from Taegans birthday party.

Things here are going pretty well. I am getting closer to the end of the semester, which is always nice. I can't believe how fast time has gone by. Well anyway I wish I had something interesting to tell you, but I don't. Enjoy the pictures and I will post more later. Bye Now!

It's Official

2007-03-07T20:06:00.001-07:00

Well I am finally done just talking about going to Russia! It's official--I have the ticket and everything. I will be going on the 28th of August returning the 22nd of December. Also on the way there I have a layover in Paris so I get to spend a day and a half there. Granted I would rather be in Italy, but it would be nice to see the sights in Paris too. I am just so excited--just thought I would share. And Amy if your reading I am so bummed Im gonna miss out on the baby--but I know your excited for me too even though you won't say it! :)

Alright thats all I have for now. I hope this finds everyone well and happy. Later

7:30 and I'm at work.

2007-03-03T09:55:00.000-07:00

Well it's 10 am now and I am getting my homework done, while taking calls of course. It's been pretty slow, which is good because I am reading Crime and Punishment for one of my classes and as you all know it's a huge book. For every class we have to read a whole part (the book is divided by parts--about 6 chapter per part) in order to finish the book. Not my favorite book, but what can you do?

Last night I went to a movie with a friend and saw Wild Hogs. It's got John Travota, Tim Allen, Martin Lawerence, and one other guy and it was really funny. It did have some pretty crude humor, but overall was hilarious. It's about these four middle aged men who are all friends and they go on this road trip on thier motorcyles and cause some trouble with real bikers. Anyway just thought I would share. I want to see Amazing Grace--the one about slavery in the 18th century--it looks really good. Well that is my movie suggestion for the time being. You would all be surprised--I have gotten really behind on movies.

So it looks like I am really going to Russia in the fall. I am talking with the program coordinator discussing the best program to go into. It looks like I will probably need a full year in order to really get the full benefit of..I guess relearning the language...I just really want to graduate. Anyway what have I got to loose it's not like I'm tied to anyone and it would be cool to travel.

Well I gotta get back to my homework or I'll be doing it till 3 am Sunday night. I hope everyone is doing well. Take Care everyone!

Can You Imagine--I'm Bored!

2007-02-22T16:50:00.000-07:00

Well I am sitting here at work and the calls have died down quite a bit. So I thought I would drop in and say hello. Not much is going on here. Becky noticed that my blog hadn't been worked on in a while so if your reading this Becky it's all for you.

I also changed my settings so that people won't have to sign in to see my blog, which should make it much easier to view. I can't believe how fast time is going by. I spent last night with Brayden and Taegan and it's incredible how much they have grown. We watched Flushed Away and it was so funny to watch what parts just made them smile and laugh outloud. There were some parts that were hard to understand why it made them laugh, but then again thats what makes them individuals. Anyway it was fun.

Well Im gonna go now. Hope you all have a glorious night.

2007-02-09T21:59:00.000-07:00

Hey everyone!

Just thought I would drop in and say hello. Not much interesting is going on here. I am just sitting at work wishing the next half hour would go faster, but hey what can you do.

So I have decided to do the tour director thing again this summer. It'll also be nice not to have to worry about rent and my car and just save up to go to Russia in the fall. I am pretty excited. Anyway hopefully things are well with you.

Will update if something interesting happens to me or if it doesn't either way I will talk at ya later.

Howdy!

2007-01-30T19:27:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone! I just thought I would actually post to this thing especially since I have invited people to my blog. If there are any suggestions on what you want to see and hear let me know. Other than that nothing too exciting is going on. Just going to school which can be a huge pain in the you know what, but at least I am finishing it and that says a lot for me.

I love looking at Becky's and Sadie's blog and thought I would get in on the action. I hope everyone is well and is having a glorious night. Take Care and will post ya later.

My Blog

2006-11-24T11:49:00.001-07:00

Hey Everyone--I thought this looked like a lot of fun so here it is. I'm really at a loss of what to put in this so if you have any ideas or suggestions of what you would like to see or hear about let me know. Thanks!