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January 16 Back on line ... sort of!Thanks for the prayers and encouragement. I think we will be buying a '99 Rav4 in Fairbanks. It'll take 2.5 days to get it back to Sitka ... with the help of planes and ferries! It'll work!
My happy news --- I ran a 5K (3.1 miles) in 28 minutes! I was pretty hyped! After all -- it isn't like I'm "Jane of the Jungle" and in fab shape. BUT ... I'm on the way to be in better health ... and I'm thrilled that I could do that. I haven't run 4 miles since before I joined the Navy -- so I'm lookin' to be able to do that again (at least). If it continues to feel good -- I'll go for a 10K.
Okay -- past stuff. Having Eiric home for Christmas was nice. I still have more photos to post. We had a quiet Christmas, but had TONS of fun with the Wii Fit. For those of you who may have been wondering ... it is great fun ... and you get a fabulous workout! Even Eiric sweated. I still have our Christmas stuff up -- but that is because without a car -- it makes it hard to take stuff back to storage. Good thing I love my Christmas decorations. Eiric and I had some great discussions regarding life, school, and his future. I was really proud of the many mature thoughts he shared. He spent a lot of time playing with his brother and visiting with Rosella. All in all, it was great! We grilled steaks for New Year's. I rarely do that, but I sure enjoyed the treat. Who knew I was such a great chef????
Sorry I've been out of the loop. I keep battling one cold after another ... so am very tired when I get home. I'm hoping to catch more sleep ... and then most of the cold symptoms will go gone, gone, bye-bye, diddly wob!
I hope that you are all staying warm, driving safely when you go out, and taking care of yourselves!!
God bless you and keep you,
Nae  January 10 Doing Without~A MountainWings Original~ Gooberless I sat in the movies last night. Unfulfilled. I was Gooberless. My normal ritual is to go to the movies and purchase a pack of Goobers (well two packs if you must know) and enjoy them while I watch the movie. I often have a problem with my wife sticking her hand out for some. I’m not a stingy man but those are MY Goobers. Generosity has its limits. I had to go to a different theater to see the movie and guess what? They didn’t sell Goobers. No other candy substitutes for Goobers, so either it’s Goobers or nothing. I sat there and realized three MountainWings Moments. 1. I was a grown (supposedly mature) man sitting there unfulfilled because of the lack of candy. A thing that I knew beyond question was not healthy. 2. Who you hang around with influences you greatly. My wife is now in love with Goobers and seriously threatens my supply. 3. Perhaps many of the things that we want and don’t have it’s a doggone good thing that we don’t have them. Often, we are better off with nothing than something that’s not good for us. Much better off. If you liked this, and would like other encouraging daily emails please check out: www.mountainwings.com
I received this on December 22 ... and it struck me as I was thinking about resolutions for the New Year. How many things or people do I want in my life that are not good for me? Is this the time to finally let go of unhealthy habits or relationships? How often do we keep things/relationships in our lives because we think it'll improve or we can manage it? How much time do we let go by before we decide that something really and truly isn't good for us? When do we choose to finally let go? I had to think long and hard about it -- and then I chose the things / relationships that I've long held on to (or are in storage) that I haven't seen (or heard from) in a long time. Perhaps ... with the economy the way it is ... it truly is time to simplify our lives. I'll be spending a lot of time in my storage areas, closets and cupboards determining what I do use ... and what I don't. I won't sell most of the things ... yes, I could use the money ... but I'm sure that there are people out there who need these things I'm sure to find ... and I'll pass my blessings on to them. As far as letting go of people ... well, it is only on my end. After all, if you don't hear from people ... then they certainly have let you go. Right? May you find the strength and motivation to carry your resolutions through to the end this year. May the Lord bless you with peace and contentment. Thank you so much for coming to visit, for encouraging me, and for sharing your lives with me. May the Lord bless you and keep you, Nae :o)
PS -- For you gearheads -- my van died. Big boom. Put the crankshaft rod through the oil pan. It is dangerous driving here in the winter. I'm looking for a mini-SUV for under $5,000. I think I would like a '99 or '00 Toyota Rav4, a '02 Subaru Forester, or a Ford Escape XLT. Unless ... of course ... you guys know something that I don't about these vehicles! Let me know what you think! Thanks!!!
December 20 The Reason for the Season ...Dear Children,
It has come to my attention that many you are upset that folks are taking My name out of the season. Maybe you've forgotten that I wasn't actually born during this time of the year and that it was some of your predecessors who decided to celebrate My birthday on what was actually a time of pagan festival. Although I do appreciate being remembered anytime. How I personally feel about this celebration can probably be most easily understood by those of you who have been blessed with children of your own. I don't care what you call the day. If you want to celebrate My birth, just GET ALONG AND LOVE ONE ANOTHER. Now, having said that let Me go on. If it bothers you that the town in which you live doesn't allow a scene depicting My birth, then just get rid of a couple of Santa's and snowmen and put in a small Nativity scene on your own front lawn. If all My followers did that there wouldn't be any need for such a scene on the town square because there would be many of them all around town. Stop worrying about the fact that people are calling the tree a holiday tree, instead of a Christmas tree. It was I who made all trees. You can remember Me anytime you see any tree. Decorate a grape vine if you wish: I actually spoke of that one in a teaching, explaining who I am in relation to you and what each of our tasks were. If you have forgotten that one, look up John 15: 1 - 8. If you want to give Me a present in remembrance of My birth here is my wish list. Choose something from it: 1. Instead of writing protest letters objecting to the way My birthday is being celebrated, write letters of love and hope to soldiers away from home. They are terribly afraid and lonely this time of year. I know, they tell Me all the time. 2. Visit someone in a nursing home. You don't have to know them personally. They just need to know that someone cares about them. 3. Instead of writing George complaining about the wording on the cards his staff sent out this year, why don't you write and tell him that you'll be praying for him and his family this year. Then follow up. It will be nice hearing from you again. 4. Instead of giving your children a lot of gifts you can't afford and they don't need, spend time with them. Tell them the story of My birth, and why I came to live with you down here. Hold them in your arms and remind them that I love them. 5. Pick someone that has hurt you in the past and forgive him or her. 6. Did you know that someone in your town will attempt to take their own life this season because they feel so alone and hopeless? Since you don't know who that person is, try giving everyone you meet a warm smile; it could make the difference. 7. Instead of nit picking about what the retailer in your town calls the holiday, be patient with the people who work there. Give them a warm smile and a kind word. Even if they aren't allowed to wish you a "Merry Christmas" that doesn't keep you from wishing them one. Then stop shopping there on Sunday. If the store didn't make so much money on that day they'd close and let their employees spend the day at home with their families. 8. If you really want to make a difference, support a missionary - especially one who takes My love and Good News to those who have never heard My name. 9. Here's a good one. There are individuals and whole families in your town who not only will have no "Christmas" tree, but neither will they have any presents to give or receive. If you don't know them, buy some food and a few gifts and give them to the Salvation Army or some other charity which believes in Me and they will make the delivery for you. 10. Finally, if you want to make a statement about your belief in and loyalty to Me, then behave like a Christian. Don't do things in secret that you wouldn't do in My presence. Let people know by your actions that you are one of mine. Don't forget; I am God and can take care of Myself. Just love Me and do what I have told you to do. I'll take care of all the rest. Check out the list above and get to work; time is short. I'll help you, but the ball is now in your court. And do have a most blessed Christmas with all those whom you love and remember: I LOVE YOU, JESUS Author Unknowm December 13 Christmas JoysEiric arrived home last night -- he looks like a bushman. He told me on the phone that he was worried about me cutting his hair when he got home, so I'm going to try to just let it go. Either he'll get tired of it ... and want a free haircut before he goes back to college ... or his hair will just keep getting longer and longer and longer! His arrival was a surprise for his siblings -- we didn't tell them WHEN he was coming home. Rosella was happy to see him and laid all over him. Peter smiled a REAL smile for the first time in forever. It was so good to see my son, but sad too -- 'cause he already misses his girlfriend (I remember how that feels).
Moriah's last day for her firefighting course is today. She is doing her practicals as I write this. She did her written exam last night. I'm pretty sure she'll do well, and ... if she does ... then I will have two certified Firefighter I's in the family. She is still trying to decide what she wants to be when she grows up, but that's okay. I think she is worried more about HOW she is going to reach her goal.
Rosella has been asked, a couple of times, to become an EMT. She doesn't want to, but I've told her it would be VERY good information to have as an adult. Still ... she is a sensitive soul ... so I want her to do what will allow herself to grow into a woman who is sensitive, creative, caring and loving ... in a manner that she feels safe. I do, however, wish she'd stop dating the kid she is seeing ... but that's another story ... and I'm trying to back off and let it play itself out.
Peter is doing better. We have to stay "on top" of him to get homework done ... and I've let him know that he can't be telling me "no" all the time. There are certain things I need him to do -- to help around the house. I just hope that the good feelings last after Eiric leaves too.
The house almost looks like Christmas -- maybe by the end of the day -- then I can start baking: molasses cookies, cream cheese cookies, candy cane cookies, cranberry-orange bread, biscotti, cinnamon rolls or sticky buns for Christmas morning, and then try making toffee, chocolate covered coffee spoons, and other delights ... doesn't it sound fun?? I'm having fun planning the Christmas menu - with old favorites: rice pudding, fruit salad, wheat rolls, RICH mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie - and new tastes: cranberry marinated turkey, fruity wild rice stuffing, brandied yams, sauteed green beans, and maybe a chocolate or pumpkin cheesecake. Not positive ... just rolling ideas around in my head. I'll have to start cooking a day or two in advance for marinating sauces ... got to let those herbs blends.
I need to start wrapping presents -- and, as always, I'll be holding my breath to see if the Santa Claus gifts make it in before Christmas eve. I need to order pictures for my mother's side of the family, make gifts for my in-law side of the family and put together little gift bags for my co-workers. Much to do -- but all a delight.
I hope that ALL of you are enjoying the holidays and remembering the Reason for the season.
God bless you and keep you,
Nae
October 13 Celebrate Good Times! C'mon!!!Okay, I'll admit that I've been hiding in a hole lately. Whole slew of bad things came my way in a short period of time, and I fell into a black hole. Tough place to be occasionally, but it is true -- during our times of extreme duress -- we do grow and change. I only like to allow myself so far to fall, then I have to pick myself up and try to get back on track. Part of that is coming to the understanding (more and more) that blogging (unless private) is not the place to share your problems (especially if it involves other people).
Anyway, last week -- things began to take a turn. For those of you who have been praying for my brother-in-law, it appears as if the infection in his lung is isolated and there is hope. He will be going to see a specialist at the Mayo Clinic, and we hope that they will have a treatment plan for him. I'm thankful that things are working out for Jon and Kim, they are finding their way through a dark place with God leading them ... and I'm grateful that they are trusting completely in the Lord.
On Friday, God blew a wonderful blessing my way: my team was selected for the Healthy Native Communities Fellowship. It means that myself and two other women will meet with other teams from Native communities and work together to learn how to make sustainable, healthy communities. Our group is hoping to create a curriculum based on our traditional lifestyle that promoted health and wellness. We'll see how that goes. I have a lot of ideas rolling in my head for how to create the books, and am looking forward to being able to be creative.
So put on your dancing shoes and get ready to celebrate with me:
Enjoy the fun and keep groovin' -- it's good for your heart!
God bless you and keep you,
Nae :o)
September 17 Are You Invisible?Life continues to throw curve balls (more EMS calls, leaking washers, miscommunications, etc), but when you compare it to things that are finite ... it makes it much easier to let go of those things that will not matter in five years. Yes ... we are still sliding into the valley ... but it isn't such a steep drop anymore. We now see the light that is filtering through the trees. We know there is a bottom. We know that their is someone who really is in control, and we trust that no matter what happens -- it will be all right. That brings peace to the heart.
We are here. We are real. Sometimes ... we wonder. And, for those of you who may be wondering, I want to share this video. I think I've share the words before -- but now I'm sharing it another way. Just sending it home ... and it doesn't apply just to women.
For all of you who continue to wonder if you matter -- you do. You are special. You are building a cathedral in your community. Others may not see it, but God does. Don't give up the good works, carry on brave and honorable person!
God bless you and keep you,
Nae  September 16 Life ContinuesToday I ordered a new stethoscope ... I'm hoping that it'll make hearing lung and heart sounds easier in the ambulance.
Moriah wants a small medical dictionary so that she can fill out the run reports easier. Generally, I am thankful for God giving me the ability to spell, and I can spell most medical (read latin) words. Occasionally, under stress, I can't think of words ... much less spell.
HOWEVER ... I've been drawing VERY close to the Lord the past two weeks ... and am not feeling as stressed. I have let go of some of the stuff ... and, other stuff, well ... I'm working on it. The good thing -- I KNOW who is in control!
So ... in light of that ... and the whole EMT thing ... I received this in my email and it made me laugh (and reminded me of Moriah and myself when we are doing our "Crash and Eddie" impersonations).
Boolevard
========== A policeman is on scene at a terrible accident - body parts everywhere. He is making his notes of where the pieces are and comes across a head. He writes in his notebook: "Head on bullevard" and scratches out his spelling error. "Head on bouelevard" Nope, doesn't look right - scratch scratch. "Head on boolevard..." dang it! Scratch scratch. He looks around and sees that no one is looking at him as he kicks the head. "Head on curb." Thanks to those who have been praying for my friends, family and self. You are the best!
God bless you and keep you,
Nae  September 08 Down ... but not out!Thanks to all of you who wrote a note of concern for me. They say that we only dislike in others what we dislike in ourselves. And, I'm glad that when I'm annoyed with someone else ... I'm willing to try to get the plank out of my eye before working on getting the speck out of theirs. Yes, this does mean I am hard on myself -- but I'm the only I can change (in a given situation). It is always important to remember that even if there are others that contribute to the situation, I have to look at what I did to make it contribute to the problem or exascerbate it, and then do my best to change how I respond. If being hard on myself helps me to identify what I'm doing wrong, figure out how to change, or helps me to be more proactive, then that is a good thing.
Still, I know that I need to work on setting boundaries. It is a major fault with me. I'm afraid of making the other person angry. Not necessarily so they won't be my friend or accept me ... but hurting their feelings or having them yell at me. This is a huge backlask from my past experiences ... and I'm not sure if I can easily move past it. With time and practice, I will hopefully get better at setting boundaries.
I got the following story in my email -- and it seemed fitting. Kind of like that song where the parents discipline their children, then later hear the children pray about how they are not finished yet, and later the children hear the parents praying about how they are not finished yet. So --- right now -- I'm not finished yet. I'm still in the race, but not in the lead ... and I have much to learn to be a better person.
A Sure Thing
============ I had to watch. There was so much being made of this event, that I had to see how it all turned out. Of course, I wanted the best one to win, but I also wanted to see a great story become even greater. We watched the Kentucky Derby. I don't know a thing about horse racing, but I know plenty about winning and losing. As the odds changed and the tension mounted, I paid little attention to who owned what and how much they made in the past three years. The odds makers were having a field day with all the possibilities. I am sure there was a small fortune to be made if you had the right combination and your horse came in. From what I remember the winning horse would bring a hefty five million dollars to the owner. As the horses approached the starting gate, the announcer read all the statistics, but none of it made any sense to me. All I saw were horses and people. As the camera scanned along the line, I wondered what each jockey was thinking. They all have won races before, some even won the Derby, but each race is different, new, and fresh. They weren't there to lose. They started the race as winners. There were to be 18 horses in this race, but a few were "scratched," dropped out for whatever reason before the race was announced. One by one they took their places. "They're off!" It was a muddy race track, "sloppy" they said. As they bolted from the gate I saw the crowded field tighten up as each rider fought to get their position. They were literally touching sides, some six or seven deep. That is until they suddenly slipped into place. As they headed into the first turn I focused not on who was in the lead, but all the horses that were behind. The leader was clean and almost untouched by the mud and rain. All the horses behind were soaked and dirty. I saw that as the first obvious advantage of being the leader in the race. I know it doesn't always work this way, but I've discovered that the one in the lead early on often times burns out too soon. The great story, the excitement in the race happens when a horse lost in the crowd suddenly bursts forth. Life is like that race. I know many who started out in the lead and because of all too many bad turns, poor positioning and perhaps foolish pride, are headed for the finish line falling far behind. Still others were scratched from the race all too soon. Life happens that way. I'm not sure how long the race I'm in will run. At 54 I'm more than half way there. I'm certainly well past the first turn. But then again, I could also be in the final stretch. I can tell you I've been in the lead and I've been the very last. Right now I'm running with a lot of mud in my face somewhere in the middle. No matter where you are, the race isn't over until the Great Announcer says it's over. That means whether you're running second, last or somewhere in the middle like me, there's plenty of room to find your place. But you don't have to be number one to win. You see in life, never giving up, finishing no matter how long it takes, having had the chance to run at all, makes you a winner. Win, place or show, if I were a betting man, my money would be on you. You see, God only makes winners, so you're "a Sure Thing!" ~©Bob Perks, www.bobperks.com~
I appreciate all of your kindness! Thank you for sharing your thoughts, wisdom and prayers!
God bless you and keep you,
Nae :o) September 07 Pot Calling the Kettle BlackAs I get older ... I find myself easily seeing my faults when I get irritated. I have been wanting to apply for the Healthy Native Communities Fellowship program for three years, and was finally given permission this year. But I learned a MAJOR lesson about myself.
1) I still get very agitated when things aren't going the way that I want them to.
2) I still have problems setting healthy boundaries - and completely understand now that it is my fault when I feel agitated by people not meeting MY expectations - because I didn't SET a boundary.
3) I have found that as much as I have thought I have let somethings go, I haven't. I have, unfortunately, held on to some things ... in other words: I haven't completely forgiven some people.
4) I do not do well with people getting kicked out of shape in a stressful situation. When they attack each other, it makes me sick to my stomach. I don't know how to relax in that type of a situation. Mind you ... part of my feelings might have been 'cause I was sitting at the firehall watching war movies and getting tied up in knots over the deaths (I don't do well with graphic violence) ... and part of it might be all the pent up stress over Eiric moving on and not calling me this weekend (after his Dad left him in Oregon).
Still ... I'm concerned about myself! I'm very disapointed in my emotional responses this last week. Most often ... I can just let things go ... it is because I don't care enough. But when I care ... I'm like a dog with a bone. I'm not sure this is always a good thing ... because people are often attached to that bone ... and they get irritated with me when I nag, "Are you finished?" "Did you do what I asked?" I'm not sure how to work on this when I'm also attached. I know that when it just affects them (like my son) I just need to let go and let it happen.
I've really been praying about this -- because I thought, perhaps, I was further along than I am ... and, here, I am not the person I had hoped I was becoming. Anyway ... I'll try to get some more sleep ... and see if it helps my outlook on life.
Hope this finds all of you well ... and rested from your weekend!
God bless you and keep you,
Nae
 July 08 Life is FullLife is good. I'm staying busy ... but you knew that.
I had a great birthday ... yes ... 204! It totally amazes me that I'm creeping towards old age ... but I refuse to do it lying down! BTW -- did you know that if you DANCE that you can prevent dementia in old age by 76%!!!!! Dancing keeps both your body and mind supple (if you have intricate steps to follow). Not only that ... but it is so much fun (and a great way to get close to the one you love)!!!
Anyway ... my daughter gave me money for Wisconsin, the other daughter gave me Gilmore Girls, my son gave me a beautiful necklace, and my sister gave me JAG (whoo-hoo -- love the man in uniform)! I had a slow morning, walked six miles to town, watched "Hancock" with Peter, had a margarita (blended with salt) with my mom and sister, had a light dinner (soup) and angel food cupcakes with strawberries, blueberries and whip cream. Then ... we watched fireworks ... and, of course, those were for me (ha!).
The fourth was slow also. We came into town for the parade, watched the firefighters versus the coastguard water fight, and then went to my aunt and uncle's for a barbeque. It was all fabulous! Moriah even thought one of the guys on the coastie team was cute ... that was pretty major!
I leave on Thursday for the National Wellness Conference in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. I'm looking forward to earning a certificate to teach Stress Management classes, and also learning other things to promote health and wellness. I imagine I will be tired when it is all over. The classes will be from 8 am - 5 pm on Saturday and Sunday, and from 8 am - 10 pm, Monday - Thursday.
On the 18th, I'll drive back to Minnesota to meet my in-laws and go watch a basketball tourney (I think in Duluth) with them (and see more family). I'll be back on the 21st!
The temps are supposed to be in the 80's -- so I am BEYOND excited. I love warmth!!!! This is going to be very, very good.
I hope that you are all well, and staying out of trouble (but having loads of fun).
God bless you and keep you,
Nae :o) June 21 A Little Something to Think OnI received the following in my email -- and it got my head to thinking. I'll share it with you; you may have read it before, but it is worth thinking about.
Carrots, Eggs & Coffee Beans AUTHOR UNKNOWN I have been trying to find out why people GRIND the coffee bean. If you throw the coffee bean into the water, will you get the same delectable taste (I'm guessing since I don't partake) as the coffee grounds? And ... if you put an entire carrot into the water ... will the whole thing become soft? I'm guessing it will, but I'm thinking that I may need to experiment to satisfy my curiousity. Anyway, after reading this ... I have been questioning myself ... am I the carrot or the bean? And, if I am the bean, do we flavor things only if we get ground up before being boiled? One would like to believe that they change the world around them, but I'm afraid I may be the carrot I become soft and spineless. I don't know. I know I back off of many arguments ... which is crazy 'cause I didn't as a teenager or young adult. Still I've learned to fear confrontation even more than I did as a child ... so does that make me the carrot? I don't know. This is a question worth pondering, because I'd rather be the coffee ean who changes the world.
Yesterday, while walking, Moriah and I came across a banana slug.
I've noticed them for years ... but really didn't notice them. I had a friend who was a Naturalist on cruise ships, and she told me that her favorite "animal" is the banana slug ... because no one really cares for them. She asked me how much I knew about the banana slug, and I had to admit that I knew very little. Cindy shared quite a bit about them, and I thought I would share with you!
Banana slugs are usually bright yellow (the color of a banana) although they may also be green, brown, or white. Some slugs have black spots which may be so extensive as to make the animal look almost solid black.
The Pacific banana slug is the second-largest species slugs, growing up to 9.8" long.
Slugs use two pairs of tentacles to sense their environment. The larger, upper pair, termed "eyestalks," is used to detect light or movement. The second, lower pair is used to detect chemicals. The tentacles can retract and extend themselves to avoid damage -- they retract when they are scared -- like when you get too close to them.
Banana slugs have a single lung which opens externally via a pneumostome (the hole in the side of it's upper part of the body). The pneumostome lung cavity is heavily vascularized to allow gas exchange. Banana slugs excrete a thick coating of slime (mucus) around their bodies. Dehydration is a major problem. To prevent themselves from drying out, slugs can also secrete a protective layer of mucus, and insulate themselves with a layer of soil and leaves. They remain inactive in this state until the environment is moist again.
The coating offers other protections as well. It allows slugs to travel unharmed across the sharp edge of a razor blade or piece of glass, and can thwart predators; the slug excretes thick mucus and humps its body up, making itself appear larger. When the slime comes into contact with a moist surface, it produces an anesthetic which causes the membranes to go numb.
The slime of the banana slug also lubricates the terrain over which they move, so they can travel more easily. When climbing a tree, a slug can drop back down quickly using a string of slime. Researchers have made unsuccessful attempts to reproduce slug slime, since it is one of the best natural glues, and has potential uses medicinally.
The slime also contains pheromones for attracting other slugs for mating. Slugs are hermaphrodites, and reproduce by exchanging sperm with their mate. They produce up to 75 translucent eggs, which are laid in a log or on leaves. Slugs mate and lay eggs throughout the year. The adults provide no further care for their eggs beyond finding a suitable hiding spot, and the eggs are abandoned as soon as the clutch is laid.
Anyway, there is your thought for the day and an Alaskan Naturalist science lesson to boot!
Hope you have a wonderful weekend!
God bless you and keep you,
June 18 Summer Came on a TuesdayLast year, summer came on a Wednesday ... and I think it was a bit later in the year.
 Okay ... let's see ... a few more details:
We got up early on the 8th to get things done, but as you know ... we had to rush Moriah in to see the doctor when her ear got all gooey. Then we rushed home and I finished ironing the Navy whites ... and remembered ... and promptly forgot my moccasins needed to be packed. Sigh! As I finished up the last minute packing the boys stuffed the van full of luggage, regalia and food. We rushed to pick up Athena ... who had one tiny bag ... then ran and got the "elixir of life" (Diet Coke) to start the journey. I also had a cooler full of fourteen 16-oz bottled waters and 100% juice packs.
The trip over on the fast ferry was interesting ... and fast. There is only one deck to sit on, and one deck for the cars. The ferry (from a distance) looks like a catamaran ... this having two screws to move it through the water quicker. I was surprised to find a small galley on board ... you could buy food to microwave, soda, snacks and souveniers. We spent some time working on signing the new song ... only Moriah had it down really well.
We got to Juneau in a timely manner ... and we checked quickly into the hotel ... ran and ate pizza ... then ran to the store to find flat black shoes (or approximation of moccasins) for me to wear the next morning. When we got back to the hotel ... I noticed it reeked of smoke. I went down to the front desk, but there was nothing they could do - -they were PACKED. So ... I had to "suck it up" (literally). Sigh.
The next morning we did the Grand Entrance. That's where you see me carrying the very HEAVY dance staff. I couldn't carry it properly because it was so long ... so "Uncle" Ray took it from me and carried it in the parade. Generally, in past parades, the lead group begins a song that everyone was told we would sing ... and it is sung all the way in. This time ... the lead group (from Yakutat ... in FULLY beaded regalia) sang all sorts of songs ... and all the groups behind them were stunned. What to do? Some of the groups began singing their own songs; and, eventually, so did Kaagwaantaan. We were third in line ... so once we got into Centennial Hall and danced across the stage ... we were done. Yay!
I worked at a health promotion table from 1 - 3 pm trying to get people's opinions on a tobacco cessation campaign that we created ... and it was kind of fun. I think many of you would have liked the artist's market (and I would have taken pictures ... but figured I WOULD get in trouble). They sold seal skins, wooden masks, robes, beaded designs, moccasins, raven's tail bags, pictures, bookmarks, dollies, etc.
Later that evening we performed at Centennial Hall and Uncle Nels asked me to carry the Veteran's staff because I was in the Navy; he also told me that other men would swap out with me if I got tired. So I carried it in ... and it was heavy ... and cumbersome ... and I couldn't figure out how to dance with it. Meanwhile, the man carrying the other staff was told his was heavier and "No, you can't carry her staff." I want you to know, I have it on good authority, his was MUCH lighter. He carried his staff, hopped it here and there, moved it with one arm. I wish you could have seen it ... it was amazing and impressive ... and he had very nice arms! Meanwhile, on my side of the stage, I sweated ... I strained ... I tryed to copy his moves. I rested the staff against my upper thighs ... and it hurt bad. I switched to the other thigh. Finally, a woman's song came ... and I thought I would be relieved ... but I wasn't. I wanted to cry ... but Kaagwaantaan women never faint, cry or throw up in public. So I didn't. I wanted to. When we finished the exit song ... I was exhausted ... I wanted to bawl ... and I carried the HUGE staff back into the dressing room ... put it where it belonged and walked to the car. When I got to the hotel ... I checked ... and I was already developing red marks on my upper thighs from my instrument of torture. My back hurt from the middle of my back all the way to the lower back. My arms and legs were exhausted and sore too! So, we went back to the hotel, got Dominos, (I also took 800 mg of ibuprofen) and watched Stephen King's "Misery." Okay ... I didn't watch the whole thing ... I fell asleep after 9 pm.
The next day I was up at 6 am to be at work at 8 am - 10 am; and, yes, I had quite the bruises ... but wasn't as sore as I thought I would be. It was quiet, so I rearranged our booth so people could see both displays. Then ... I rushed back to the hotel ... changed into regalia ... and rushed back into town to perform at Marine Park. After that we ate and went shopping at WalMart (where we bought Peter too small of a shirt ... and had to return it). Back to the ANB hall in town to perform ... where we got people on their feet singing with us. We did our regalia change ... the hats with the ear loops ... and did it with style! Our performance got over late because it started 90 minutes later than scheduled -- I think we finished around 10:15 pm. I must say I was delighted when I overheard some woman tell her husband, "There's the woman I said was a good dancer." This was HUGE to me ... 'cause I have less practice than even the kids at dancing ... and have been told I have poor rhythm. Poor Peter was exhausted, thirsty and tired. We stopped by Fred Meyer's and bought water and ran back to the hotel to sleep.
Up again at 5:30 to get ready for the parade which began at 8 am (or the lineup anyway). That's when we wore the white sailor outfits with our RED shoes and red lipstick. That was fun ... and I finally figured out HOW to wear that red so it doesn't crack and fall off! Rosella, sweet pale thing that she is, looked BEAUTIFUL in red lipstick ... and both girls attracted the attention of men everywhere. Oddly ... we got more attention than the people in regalia. Isn't that funny? Okay ... and I think I told you why we wore the sailor uniforms in the last blog. Oh ... and there was this cute, young, REAL, baby sailor who wanted to check out the girls. Unfortunately, he could only move his eyes ... but I think he thought the girls were cuties. Many a men stated, "If I knew that the girls looked like that, I would join the Navy." One young fella told his mom, "Look, sailors, I'll be back!" His Mom told me! :o) It was so cold before the parade began that we crawled into other's regalia to keep warm. Moriah was under Mom's, I was under my niece's (Chatham), and Rosella was under Eiric's. Once we started dancing, we warmed right up. Back to the hotel to change. Back to town to work ... and the kids checked out what was happening in town. Back to the hotel to change and a bite to eat ... then we hiked Glacier trail (which took almost two hours ... and we ran some) ... ran to adopt our new kitty, Meeko (isn't she cute) ... dropped the kids off to see Kung Fu Panda, to the hotel to eat ... and back to Centennial Hall for Grand Exit (which went on until 1:30 am). I really wish you could have seen the regalia. The different groups gathered around each other ... and would play songs and dance in place while waiting to enter the building. I can't describe the different drum sounds to you ... not without audio ... but it was awesome. There were even people who played each others' drums. They'd hit their drum ... then hit the other person's drum ... their drum ... you get the picture. Beyond cool!
We had to be at the ferry terminal the next morning at 6 am ... got home at 1:30 ... and took naps!!!!!
Since then ... we've been enjoying the new baby ... it took a week to name her. She was on the streets, but she has quickly adapted to living with us. The other kitties took a while to adapt. I think Haida would have adopted her quickly ... but she scared him with her hissing when we first got her home. The hissing has stopped ... but she still growls if you try to hold her when she isn't tired ... she prefers to run and play.
I hope that you are all well.
God bless you and keep you,
Nae May 23 Four Lovers'The Four Lovers'
Once upon a time there was a Queen who had four lovers.
She loved the 4th lover the most and adorned him with rich robes and treated him to the finest of delicacies. She gave him nothing but the Best.
She also loved the 3rd lover very much and was always showing him off to neighboring kingdoms. However, she feared that one day he would leave her for another.
She also loved her 2nd lover. He was her confidant and was always kind, considerate and patient with her. Whenever the Queen faced a problem, she could confide in him, and he would help her get through the difficult times.
The Queen's 1st lover was a very loyal partner and had made great contributions in maintaining her wealth and kingdom. However, she did not love the first lover. Although he loved her deeply, she hardly took notice of him.
One day, the Queen fell ill and she knew her time was short. She thought of her luxurious life and wondered, I now have four lovers with me, but when I die, I'll be all alone.
Thus, she asked the 4th lover, 'I loved you the most, endowed you with the finest clothing and showered great care over you. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?'
'No way!' replied the 4th lover, and he walked away without another word.
His answer cut like a sharp knife right into her heart.
The sad Queen then asked the 3rd lover, 'I loved you all my life. Now that I'm dying, will you follow me and keep me company?'
'No!' replied the 3rd lover. 'Life is too good! When you die, I'm going to love someone else!' Her heart sank and turned cold.
She then asked the 2nd lover, 'I have always turned to you for help and you've always been there for me. When I die, will you follow me and keep me company?'
'I'm sorry, I can't help you out this time!' replied the 2nd lover. 'At the very most, I can only walk with you to your grave.' His answer struck her like a bolt of lightning, and the Queen was devastated.
Then a voice called out: 'I'll go with you. I'll follow you no matter where you go.' The Queen looked up, and there was her first lover. He was very skinny as he suffered from malnutrition and neglect.
Greatly grieved, the Queen said, 'I should have taken much better care of you when I had the chance!'
In truth, you have 4 lovers in your life:
Your 4th lover is your body. No matter how much time and effort you lavish in making it look good, it will leave you when you die .....
Your 3rd lover is your possessions, status and wealth. When you die, it will all go to others.
Your 2nd lover is your family and friends. No matter how much they have been there for you, the furthest they can stay by you is up to the Grave.
And your 1st lover is your Soul, often neglected in pursuit of wealth, power and pleasures of the world.
However, your Soul is the only thing that will follow you wherever you go. Cultivate and cherish it now, for it is the only part of you that will follow you to the throne of God and continue with you throughout Eternity.
Thought for the day: Remember, when the world pushes you to your knees, you are in the perfect position to pray.
Being happy doesn't mean everything's perfect. It means you've decided to see beyond the imperfections.
'For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.'
Matthew 6:21 May 15 Old Fashioned and Proud of ItI'm sick again. I wish I could say it is from all the nonsense in the news, but I think my children did a very good job of spreading the "love." Both of my ears have fluid behind them; I have an "ulcer" on my throat (which may or may not be strep), and my lungs sound crusty. When I went to Urgent Care on Monday I was given Erythromyacin oinment for my eyes and Flunisolide for my nose. I was told by the pharmacist to put the pointy part up my nostril, pinch the other side closed, and sniff. Three days later I am MISERABLE. Apparently, you are supposed to bend over squirt the Flunisolide up your nose and then let it run out. It supposedly lowers your immune system, and ... ta-dah!
I read today, online, that both Obama and Clinton have had to apologize for calling women, "Sweetie." I don't believe that I have ever been offended when I was called "Sweetie," "Sweetheart," "Hun," "Lass," or any other term of affection by someone who does or does not know me. I will admit that I used to be annoyed when people would ask if I was "Eskimo" until I figured out that people just didn't know about all of Alaska's indigenous people and they weren't trying to offend me. As I grow older, I have to ask myself, "When someone calls someone else a "term of endearment," are they deliberately trying to put the other person down? Somehow, I think not. I think probably 99.9% of the time it isn't meant as an insult either.
I have also never been offended when a man holds the door (car or building) open for me. I have never been offended when a man offers to help me when I look like I need assistance. Do I think that when they assist me they are telling me that I am not capable of taking care of myself? I don't think so. I think that ther person was raised with manners -- and I like them. I appreciate the fact that they are being kind and considerate.
I find it funny that in a country where more and more people say that they are concerned with other people, we are always taking offense and mad at other people. We are being wronged. Where does it end? Where does the love begin?
Perhaps with the people we live with, our family, our friends, our neighbors, our co-workers, and our communities. Let's try honestly being nice to one person at a time, and try not be offended unless we know for a certainty that we are being wronged. Perhaps then, we can change the world.
God bless you and keep you,
Nae April 22 The All Consuming QuestionA Small Stone
============= A small stone looked up to God and asked God, “What am I here for?” God replied, in one simple sentence, “To be a stepping stone for others who need your help.” ~A MountainWings Original by subscriber Larra Lynn Harr, Age 14, Euless, TX~ Hopefully, that answers the all consuming question of "Why am I here?"
God bless you and keep you,
Nae
April 20 Blessed SunshineThe sun as finally come out! I was beginning to wonder if it would be MAY before we saw the light (pun intended).
It was rainy and snowy all the way up to Thursday, but on Friday the sun decided to bless Sitka. It was very cold in the morning, and chilly by 5 pm -- but the sun was out. As I came over to get Moriah for our lunch time walk there were about thirty (yes, 30!) eagles sitting in the trees on the side of the bridge. By the time I came back from lunch there was only about 15. Unfortunately, I didn't have my camera. When I got off of work, I spotted these teens fishing for herring. Herring traditionally come into the shallow waters to lay their eggs in the beach greens. People will lay tree branches in the water to collect their eggs to eat; they also eat the herring themselves. These youngsters were fishing for their elders, and I'm sure that their was happy, feasting after worrying that there would be little eating this year.Yesterday I got more pictures of sea lions, otters and eagles (and fabulous sunset). This afternoon I head out for more nature photos when the tide heads out. I feel alive and happy. Ahhh, the Lord is good, and there is a time for everything!!!
The Devil Left His Bags May the Lord bless you and keep you, Nae
March 30 Crazy as a Loon or Life As an Easter EggSo, with the new look, came the desire to try new things. I've gone crazy -- at least that is what Moriah is telling everyone. I've tried chicken diablo pizza (which is spicy), barbequed chicken pizza (which was okay) and even a taco pizza (that was okay too). Come to think of it we tried Huervo Rancheros. ACK! That one I didn't love.
I told everyone I was going to dye my hair platinum blonde. Yep, I felt completely within my rights to maim and damage the short stubs of fuzz that dared to call itself hair on my head. What would it possibly matter? After all -- it is only two weeks of slight growth -- and a gal has a right to try on different looks to see whether or not it is a good fit ... right??!?
This afternoon after I got off call from the firehall I went to work. I bought the right stuff to take a dark brunette to platinum blonde. I opened the box in trepidation, wondering to myself if perhaps I should be trying burgandy instead! I consoled myself with the fact that if it went "south" that I could always shave it off and start all over. After all -- sporting little stubs wouldn't be anything new for me. So, I painted my head with the purple dye -- and painted it some more. After I was sure that all of my little stubs were thoroughly soaked, I wrapped my head in Glad Wrap and sat in front of the heater. 90 minutes later (and several checks to make sure that everything was cooking evenly), I went to wash it all out.
Imagine my horror when I stepped out of the shower to discover that my hair and eyebrows were color crayon YELLOW!!!!! AUGH!!!!!!!! I felt like Calvin (from Calvin and Hobbes). Honestly, I looked like a cancer victim because you couldn't see my eyebrows in the dark. I needed to have NOT dyed them that long. AND ... I was a bit swollen from where the dye was sitting and irritating my skin. SIGH! I called Moriah in ... and she shrieked with laughter. Holding her sides laughing. To make matters worse, when I pulled my yellow towel up to my head ... it matched my hair color. I could have died.
SO ... Moriah ... still laughing ... took pictures to prove that her mother is a silly goose. Then she went and purchased BLACK hair dye. Well ... my hair, scalp, and face ate it all up rather quickly!!!! To say the least ... I have black hair now ... but also a partially black face, ears, and neck too!!!! Sigh!!!! I have no pictures of that for you ... 'cause, well, enough is enough!!!!!
For those of you who are curious, the young man had a history of mental illness and hadn't been taking his pills. There are letters that have been submitted to the district attorney basically stating that he was afraid that he would kill himself or kill others and that he felt his family was pushing him over the edge. Will there be an insanity plea? Probably.
Thank you for your continued prayers for the Abbott family and the people of Sitka.
AND ... on a positive note ... we are planning our next adventure! We are going to go on a Mediterranean Cruise in May of 2009. YAY!!!!! I have much to get ready for. Moriah will have a ganglion cyst removed from her right wrist at the end of April. I think, if I can't control the pain, I will have a complete hysterectomy in October. Then ... I'll get fit and trim ... so I fit in with all those Italians!!!! I'm told that they are very interested in blondes, so Moriah and Rosella will be big draws.
I hope that all of you are well.
God bless you and keep you,
Nae :o) March 27 Tragedy UpdateBy Steve Quinn
ASSOCIATED PRESS
7:00 p.m. March 26, 2008
SITKA, Alaska – An 18-year-old Sitka man has been charged with four counts of murder, accused of killing his grandparents and two other people at their home.
District Court Magistrate Bruce Horton ordered Jason Alex Abbott held on $1 million bail during a preliminary hearing. He will be transferred to a state correctional facility in Juneau for security reasons, officials said. Abbott was appointed a public defender. Attorney Jude Pate said he would plan the best defense “to defend my client's constitutional rights.” He declined further comment. The stabbings occurred Tuesday, about 30 hours after Abbott was released on a misdemeanor domestic violence charge stemming from an incident involving his mother at her home, at a separate location from where the killings took place. Abbott – thin, with boyish looks, a shaved head and what appears to be homemade tattoos on both forearms – also faces one count of attempted murder for injuring a fifth person, a woman who is hospitalized is in serious but stable condition, police said. All five people were stabbed multiple times, with wounds on their backs and fronts, including some defensive wounds, said Police Chief Sheldon Schmitt. Some of the victims were identified Wednesday as grandparents and homeowners Alice Abbott, who would have turned 69 on Friday, and her husband, John D. Abbott, 69. Police also said Charles Tate, 37, whose relationship to the Abbott family hasn't been established, was another victim. The identities of both the fourth victim and the survivor have not been released. John Abbott was found dead in a recliner. A victim identified as “E.A.” in court papers was located in the bathroom, face down in blood, as was Tate, who was found in a bedroom. Alice Abbott and the survivor, identified in court papers as “M.R.,” were found outside. Court documents filed Wednesday recounted both police and the survivor's accounts of what happened at the home late Tuesday morning: M.R. woke to the sound of her mother, Alice Abbott, screaming, according to the court documents. M.R. went downstairs to see her mother covered in blood and scrambling from the house. She then saw the defendant come at her with a knife, documents say. The survivor was chased outside by Jason Abbott, according to court papers. He allegedly caught her in the driveway, where she screamed for him to stop as he stabbed her repeatedly until police arrived. Alice Abbott was still alive but staggering before she fell against a police car. She was taken to a hospital, where she later died on the operating table, court documents say. When police confronted Jason Abbott, they had to use a stun gun to subdue him after he put a dagger to his own throat, Schmitt said. Abbott fell when stunned, injuring his eye. Court documents state the Jason Abbott told the emergency room doctor and a Sitka police detective that he stabbed three of the five victims. According to court papers, “The defendant stated that he used his left hand to stab his victims.” “It was a very horrific type of crime with a lot of blood,” Schmitt said. “It was a very chaotic scene. There was a lot of blood in the home and on the street.” The violence occurred on a quiet street in central Sitka, only two blocks from the police station. That proximity may have prevented having more victims, Schmitt said. “The crime was in process when the cops got there, happening right at that time and that's very unusual,” Schmitt said. “If we hadn't got there when we did, we would have had more hurt, if not dead.” On Wednesday, three bodies remained in the house where investigators, including two crime scene specialists dispatched 600 miles from Anchorage, were reviewing the area. Watching investigators from across the street was Marcus Hipp, a 46-year-old fish processor who rented a section of the Abbott's house. Hipp, who said he wasn't home when the stabbing took place, was shocked at the deaths. “The Abbotts were like my grandparents. They took me in and accepted me as part of their family,” he said. “Five people at one time? This doesn't happen in LA that much, unless it's some kind of gangland shooting. This is just a nightmare,” he said before approaching officers to inquire if he could remove his personal items from the home.
Please continue to keep this family and the people who were affected in your prayers. God bless you and keep you, Nae March 25 Good vs EvilTragedy visited Sitka today ... in a manner that I've been aware of only in big cities. I'm still shocked that it happened.
Today should have been a good day. The herring season opened -- which means that money is going to flow back into Sitka. It means that people will soon be eating herring eggs. It means that spring really is around the corner. Sure ... it is snowing -- and has been snowing ... but apparently the herring like that. I'm not sure how they decide that there are enough herring to catch, but there is a method. Then airplanes are sent up to spot where the herring are, the boats go out to set their nets, and tenders wait to pull in the fish. All very exciting. Normally.
It was overshadowed by an 18 year old attacking his family. Three ambulances were dispatched. I had a co-worker drive me to the scene (after I called the firehall to ask if they needed more help). I was called to the side of the fire Chief and Officer Green. There were police officers everywhere, and the house was being swept for more victims. The third ambulance was getting ready to leave with the assailant. The other officers came out, the house was cleared, and I was released to go back to work. Three people were declared dead at the scene. Two were sent code red to the hospital -- and we lost one of them. The assailant was tasered and fell on his knife (which went into his eye).
I'm sick to my stomach. I'm thankful that I didn't see anything more than blood on the ground (outside of the house). Still I wonder -- how could someone who loved that boy not know he was that angry????
When I'm told that people are basically good -- I'll debate the point. I always tell them that we don't need to teach our children to be selfish ... they are good at that. We continue to battle our selfishness into being adults ... even after we accept Christ as our savior.
Tonight I stay in prayer for the people who are related to this family, who loved this family, and who knew this family. I'm also in prayer for the families who lived around this house -- who may feel a lot of emotional repercussions (police, yellow tape, etc). Please pray that God will give Sitka's residents peace and comfort to get through this, and to grow together.
God bless you and keep you,
Nae March 03 CompassionToday I visited my paid friend, and one of the things that I discussed with him was my concern over why I always seemed to want so much more from relationships (family, friends, husband) -- and if I was just too needy or something.
When I talk to you I don't want to know just what is going on in your life, I also want to know how you are feeling about it. I don't want to just talk about how your hobbies are, I want to know what your passions are. I like deep conversations ... and I like silly conversations. I love "what if," conversations because they open a whole new world to explore. I tend to over-empathize with people. I feel hurt when they are hurt. I am angry when they are mistreated. I am thrilled for them when they are happy. I need to check in with you when your world goes topsy-turvy ... and, even if I can't be there in person, I try to reach out via mail, email and the phone to let you know that I care.
Steve says that I am very compassionate -- and it is why I feel so much for the people in my lives. He says that there are a small number of people like me in the world, and that is why I can't find anyone who can be what I am to them (to me). Does that make sense?
The stories on St. Baldricks touch my heart -- and shore up my resolve to be brave (and not cry) when my hair is cut off. These brave young people have shown me a better way to act -- and to not be so silly about something as frivolous as hair.
If you choose to make a donation of behalf of one of these brave individuals (at www.stbaldricks.org) -- thank you for your kindness and generosity! God bless you and keep you, Nae |
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