Buckland

Flying on a Black hawk helicopter.

If anyone ever gets the opportunity, DO NOT turn it down.

I reported to the National Guard Hanger around 9:30 a.m. and was told to grab some ear plugs and head downstairs to be briefed. There were five civilians and three National Guardsmen. We took off in the Western Alaska darkness around 10:15 am. I sat in a seat facing backwards, alone with side windows.

We flew north east to the village of Buckland, where the forecast predicted at least -25 F, not including any sort of wind chill.

We watched the sun rise over the snow covered tundra and on into the mountains. Coming close to peaks and summits, gazing at the blowing snow swirling on the ground below.

As we grew closer to our destination, I actually saw some trees. Simple pleasures, especially when you do not see any for months at a time.

We landed just after the sun had come up- approximately around 12:30. We were greeted by villagers on snowmachines, 4-wheelers, and a truck looking to give us a lift to the elementary/middle/high school. Getting my backpack on and securing my gloves a National Guardsmen opens the door and screams 'Its 45 below be ready.' It seemed that everyone went into preparation mode for the arctic temperatures. I zipped up my jacket, secured my scarf and hoped that my clothes would suffice.

I stepped off the helicopter, took a breath and my glasses fogged up and in turn froze. So, I am standing there, blind and wandering into a bed of a truck that I hope is headed to the elementary school- but I see that Santa is also piling on so I feel secure.

We drive through a row of houses and approach a beautiful school that I learned was just built seven years earlier.

We unloaded the truck and headed inside. Looking around I see kids, teachers, and administrators barking orders and kids obeying everything coming out of the adults mouthes. I was impressed, they seemed to be running a tight ship and I did not want to step out of line.

We were set up in the Library, the elves went to work and Santa got ready. I had my KNOM duties to do so I got the Marantz recorder ready and acquainted myself with my surroundings. Mostly defrosting my glasses.

The students filed in one class at a time by grade. We learned that an elder had passed away and the funeral was during the scheduled time- so we had an hour to see between 150 and 175 students, take a picture with the Jolly Old Man and hand them their gift. Glorious.

They brought students in one class at a time and the children stood tolerantly for their turn, I have never seen kids so well behaved.

One student was making sarcastic comments and passing out jokes. I was behind him and he turns around and said 'What is this? A recorder?' I told him it was and he faced me and said- 'Wait, I don't know you.' I told him what I was doing and he felt the recorder and commented on how big it was and questioned my attendance. His name was Jeremiah. A boy behind him poked him and froze and without missing a beat Jeremiah just said the boys name and said to stop, he knows that poke.

Jeremiah is blind, and told me that he may not see the computer screen but he can be brutal with computers- I believe him.

The students as well behaved as they were, did show excitement when they received their gift, no one, not even a baby cried when they sat on Santa's lap. Amazing.

We did get everyone happily through.

The entourage gathered everything up in the library and tried to figure a ride back to the chopper. In 45 below, walking did not sound to pleasant. A teenager walked in and her mother, the principal, asked 'Did you try to start the truck this morning' and she simply stated that it would not even turn over. That is what happens in 45 below, if something was not already on, it is too late.

A man was walking through and said his truck was on and he could drop us off. Walking outside I tried not to repeat my previous mistake, and made a hole for air through my knotted scarf, it worked for a minute.

We landed in Buckland around 12:40 and suddenly at 1:40 pm we are headed back to the Back hawk. Talk about a quick trip!

We loaded up and this time- I faced forward.

The trip back was exciting, it was like we were on a roller coaster or in a movie. At times the pilots decided to have a little fun. We would circle and sometime maneuver to see caribou herds or a frozen creek bed.

We dove to the ground, spin around and flew over some amazing Alaskan wilderness.

I made it home safely, and exhausted. A trip needed, I would do it agian in a heartbeat.

Blackhawks and Operation Santa Claus

Tuesday I went on a Blackhawk helicopter to deliver presents to good little kids in the village of Buckland, Alaska. I went with Santa, his elves, and the National Guard.

**When I finish the Christmas play for broadcast on KNOM and everything I will post a more in depth description of my fabulous experience.**

It was phenomenal.

Former Marine talks about coming home

Former Marine talks about coming home
Video sent by TNLvideos

Daniel Lee was interviewed about the challenges of returning to civilian life after coming home from the war.

Nome Holidays

Permafrost does not allow trees to grow around this area- so Nome flies in Christmas trees, it is a luxury needless to say.
Without trees to absorb nature's winds, the wind is free to rip through anything in it's path. They got up to 50 mph a few night ago. My roommate Jacob woke me up around 3 a.m. and the things on his wall where shaking. I have never really been in winds that powerful that they shook things inside a house. The forecast consists of 'snow and blowing snow'--- fabulous.
Our house is decorated for Christmas! We are picking up a Christmas tree tomorrow, so we are getting a live tree!
Things I have learned with the mild introduction to winter so far:
- Windburn hurts.
- When you have been inside all day you do not care it is -3 F, you still want to walk.
- 10:30 am and 10:30 pm look the same
- Parties are necessary for social interaction
- Reading can make one a hermit
- Small communities have more activities then I can count

Nome has Safety Patrol, consisting of citizens that patrol Front Street in Nome during the weekends that people receive their Personal Fund Dividend checks and other various holidays and celebrations. Some villages are dry- no alcohol whatsoever. Thus, some fly here to have a little fun. The purpose is to make sure people are not falling off the seawall into the Bering Sea, freezing to death and even just to make sure the police are called if there seems to be altercation. Like a hyped neighborhood watch. I patrolled this past weekend from midnight to 1:30 am. It is a nice experience to help out in the community. I keep reiterating this but it is true, Nome is a small community and they take pride in what they have, people watch out for each other.

I have just finished 'Rome Sweet Home' by Dr. and Mrs. Scott Hahn. Great book, Dr. Hahn and his wife, Kimberly, wrote about their venture from the Presbyterian church into the Catholic Faith. Pretty insightful.

Life in the Bush

The snow is disappearing, it is November, instead of snow we have been experiencing rain, and today hurricane force winds. With daily rain comes ice at night, creating nice slick paths for ATVs and pedestrians heading to work in the darkness at 8:30 a.m.

The main street in Nome is called Front Street, fitting since it is right there on the front of the Bering Sea. I can see from my office window some of the lights that are strung in zig zag fashion across the street. Starting at the Library and headed down to the Post office, so basically a block. Little town little pleasures, quaint.

To give perspective on life in the Bush... heating options, typically people use gallons and gallons of heating oil to keep cozy and alive during the winter. Also, snow machines, careful- not snow mobiles, are a key travel component between villages and vital tools for hunting. Furthermore, airline tickets are strikingly expensive even from Nome to Anchorage.

I was hoping to get out to a village this weekend to cover a volleyball tournament, however it is just not possible at this time. The production department does not have the elasticity to have me gone a Thursday-Saturday, roughly. However, I would not have been able to get out today anyway, with the rain freezing on runways all carriers that I would have used to get out there would have been canceled. Perhaps I am just too clairvoyant.

KNOM does a yearly Christmas play every year written by a former volunteer. Several of the past plays have won awards, and I am going to be editing this years production. I should be receiving this year's play any time now.

I have been spending some time with the local Parish Priest in Nome, and attending Mass. It is interesting to how it is celebrated and the Biblical basis of every tradition presented. I sit thinking about the parallels between Protestant practices and the Catholic tradition. After all, that is where Protestant traditions are generated from. Funny, some Protestants think their fathers created most of the traditions... and Catholics feel that they do not even know the Bible like Protestants, I find that interesting because Mass is scripture, despite what some people think.

Nome is a special town and I feel privileged to be apart.

Happy Holidays everyone!

You are all in my prayers,

Kristina

Dear Lower 48 Pal,

I look out my office windows and I can see the Bering sea and the mountains covered in snow, which right now are turning pink from the 5 p.m. setting sun. It is weird, the darkness. Really can calm someone down, or depress them.

It is getting darker earlier and earlier everyday. It is hard to mentally prepare for the fact that by the time I am off work the sun is setting, and I can feel a difference. Honestly it is a little scary to feel so complacent. I am making myself stay active. For instance I am trying to go work out at least 3 times a week, practice sign language and French. However, social activities I hear increase with the winter because more people gather to prevent cabin fever. I can really see why that interaction is so important.
I can also see why KNOM is so important for people in many villages. We are a connection, a beacon, something steady and supportive. Wow, maybe I should listen in more! No, I do listen to many programs we air. In fact I am enjoying learning all about the Saints as well as the Sacraments, two spot series that the Inspirational Director David Dodman produces. I just love learning about all denominations and faiths. I love being a nerd!

I have taken a liking to C.S. Lewis. I have had his books before but for some reason now I just cannot get enough and my roommates are aware of my current addiction. They hear about it almost on a nightly basis. I have steamed through Mere Christianity as well as The Great Divorce. I recommend these books for anyone with any level of faith.

I am learning to play racquetball, yes, I am working through my uncoordinated skills and trying to hit a small ball with a little racket in a little room. I could feel the walls closing in last time- or maybe that was because I was running into them.

I did another Sounding Board this week. Sounding Board is a caller driven show where KNOM staff and volunteers take turns researching a issue or topic and host a show about it for an hour once a week. This was my week and I chose Obesity in Western Alaska. The first 30 minutes were dry with no callers. Fortunately, people ended up calling in the second half and giving their take on the issue, maybe better next time. I need to come up with another topic... I am up again in a month. Any ideas?

I might be headed to Golovin in about 2 weeks to cover a volleyball tournament. Pray for that, I think it would be a slamming good time!.... I know I am lame. It is confining to think that I have not ventured out of the city of Nome for over 2 months. Makes me feel disconnected to the world.

How have you been? I have been rude and have not even asked. I a sorry! Your support and prayers keep me chugging along on late nights.

I do miss the lower 48, but KNOM is such an amazing place, and the staff is phenomenal. They have everyone's best interest at heart. They stand by their staff and volunteers, really helps when we are all so far from home.

Stay well and know you are in my prayers. Have a GLORIOUS day and enjoy the trees and the Sun... Since I do not see much of either here.

Yours,

Kristina

Firestarters, Blinking Lights, and T-Shirt Weather

It seems that children everywhere have decided that playing with matches and lighters is the new the national pastime. Now Nome is no exception.

The wildfires in Southern California started by a ten year old, and last year in Hooper Bay, Alaska some village children were playing with fire and ended up burning half the village down. These situations are so incredibly devastating for all involved. The fires will just hare through cities and villages devouring everything in their path. Where is Smokey the Bear?

In Nome there was one victim. There was a fire that broke out this past Tuesday morning and three men were inside. One did not make it out. This apparently was caused by children playing with a lighter in the garage.

The children will more than likely not be prosecuted, and I am not saying that they should be. They do not necessarily understand how their actions can result in mass destruction and even death. That is not something taught between dodge ball and addition.

When the fire broke out power to most, if not all of Nome, was cut off so the firefighters would not have to encounter live wires on top of the out of control blaze. It took crews a few hours to douse the flames, and even when it was out to the eye, hot spots continued so it was watched and baby sat, much like those kids should have been with the lighter. Children cannot be watched every moment, but something should be done, implement a program, have the parents attend a fire safety instruction course, something.

I suppose I am a little optimistic. I hope people prove me wrong.

It was not the first time (and most certainly not the last) the electricity in Nome has disappeared. This is a common occurrence, and will increase with winter swiftly approaching. I have come to live with the blinking clocks around me. We have a few clocks around the house that run off battery so we have backups in case our main alarms fail. At first I would run around resetting my life, as it should be with steady lights with the correct time- or maybe a little fast so I could arrive to work in a timely fashion. However, that is no longer the case. I know where to look for the correct or at least approximate time. So I sleep in a room with a steady blink of 12 midnight, I could not stand that when I was in the Lower 48.

Crazy what you can become acclimated to in life. Just take it as it comes, I can thank my God for that. He is the one that keeps me chugging up here 102 miles south of the Arctic Circle.

The daily temperatures are between the mid-twenties and low thirties now. Last week we had a day where it reached 36 and my response was 'Man it warmed up, I do not need a jacket to run home'. Life is funny that way.

T-shirt weather? For the locals and natives, always.

Arctic Walk, Food 'Sales'

Yesterday there was a Komen Breast Cancer walk in Nome. I really am getting a dose of this life style.
It was snowing, under 30 degrees, the wind was blowing and most of the road was ice. BUT, off we went on our mile walk around town to raise money for breast cancer research and awareness.
The weather is highly unpredictable. Nomites tell me that it snowed earlier this year and they were not sure what to think about. That worries me. Locals do not even know how to take the weather, what is this Texan supposed to think? The amazing thing though is that I am more than warm enough, I have everything I seem to need thus far. I might need to invest in some boots but we will see once a donated pair reaches me from a generous individual in Texas.
The sun does not rise until well past 10 a.m. now. It makes the mornings hard to judge. I cannot distinguish between 3 a.m. and 8:45 a.m. I have to be at work by 8 and that makes it difficult since I am blind without my glasses and cannot see the clock, can we say ignorance is bliss?

I live with four other individuals and we all have a set food budget. We have a joint account so we share just about EVERYTHING when it comes to food. That is not the problem. The problem is we are slaves to the sales. I just wanted to enlighten you on our food shopping process, and is it ever an excursion.

We have two grocery stores in Nome. Yes, two. One is A/C and the other is Hanson's. There are sales every week and the adds come out on Wednesdays and Thursdays. We sift through the adds circling things that we need to buy, or want since it is on sale. Here are some 'sale' prices:

Milk: 2 gallons for $11

Avocados: 2 for $4

Canned Black Beans: $1.89

Dish Washer detergent: $25 for a bucket

12 pack of Pepsi: $6.99

Face wash: $6-$8

Bread: 2 loaves for $7

Just a little look into our 'sale' price world.

Yaktrax, The Office, Ice Rink

Well, as I previously stated in blog below I have found an incredible piece of equipment! They are called Yaktrax, and they are amazing for walking on freezing ice and snow. Google it, you will not be disappointed.
We are losing about 6-7 minutes of sunlight a day, so the sun does not rise until 10:15 a.m or so and it sets around 8 p.m. Also, the temperatures are dropping.
As I see the mercury drop I do ask myself how prepared I am. I just pray, that is about all I can do. I am taking the advice of people around me and it seems that my gear looks ok for now and layers is the real secret. Let nothing be exposed when we start to get to 0 and below.

That is odd to hear eh? When it gets below 0. Wow. What did I sign up for?

On a positive note, I am loving my job. It is a challenge every day. I am always busy and feelings that there is something new to work on. Perfect.

This past Sunday we watched the TV show 'The Office'. Amazing, I am not sure how I did not get more into that show before now! Well, it works out since we watch a season in one sitting. I know, I lead a hard life up here! I hang out with friends, enjoy television shows without commercials, and eat whale skin and blubber. You should visit.

We have a ice rink less then one block from the house. Really, I can see it from my window about 30 yards away. They have city league teams for ice hockey, I just want to learn to ice skate again. My roommate Jacob said he had never really been. How does that work? We have an ice rink in San Antonio, Texas. He is from Washington state, well I suppose snow is more of his forte.

Weather, Passing Time

Well the current debate is 'Will the snow stick?' Well local Nomites say yes... we shall see. I know you are excited, and I will keep you posted.

There are days when the temperatures rise above freezing and the snow begins to melt. However, the mercury drops in the evening when the sun starts to set, and now that is during the seven o'clock evening hour, so the melting snow turns to ice. Awesome for walking let alone running.
I am succeeding in this department, despite very little prior ice experience. This is due to a simple piece of equipment, called Trax. I simply place it on the bottom of my boots and it wraps around sides and the bottom has metal coils that help me walk in the ice and snow. Pretty handy and worth every penny.

KNOM has a Christmas play that airs every year and a former KNOM volunteer who is a creative writing professor writes it every year. This half hour program is edited by the production director. Yes, that would be me. So I will be working long hours on this begining in late November in order to have it done on time. The past plays have won awards and it is used in the submission for the Radio Station of the Year Award,which KNOM has won 13 of the past 15 years. No pressure.

Despite these things I am still enjoying everything in Nome. I have picked knitting back up again and I am trying to learn Hebrew. If I think that I am going to dig deep into scripture, I need to learn at least a little of the language it was written in.

My roommates and I do not watch too much television, however, netflix envelopes litter the coffee table as well as our time. So, if you have a movie recommendation please feel free to pass it on, we would be delighted.

Driving outside of Nome at the point is not an option, so I am probably here til the break up of the ice occurs in the spring and the roads are maintained once again. Cabin fever anyone?

Snow! Snow! Snow!

Well, as you might have guessed, we now have snow! This south Texan is obviously not as used to this as the local Nomites. So, I have been working and looking out the window in reassurance that the white stuff is still covering the dusty roads of Nome.
I work on the second floor of KNOM and I have a nothing short of a fantastic view of the snowy peaks. The original 'snow' last week is called 'termination dust' which indicates that summer is now behind us, the long days and temperate weather is gone and winter is on the verge.
Right now it is about 24 degrees. What am I wearing? how am I keeping warm? Well, that is the funny thing. If you would have asked me what the temperature was, I probably would have guessed around 32 or so. Nope. I walk outside in a cotton button up, jeans, slip on shoes and a thermal vest. I really can see how people say that you adjust. Also, it helps to have the people around you not freaking out that it is below freezing.
The snow might melt in the next few days but rest assure that I have not seen the last of this white powder.

I am in the process of editing an hour long show called Music Detour, and if you want to know more about that you can look on the entry titled 'New Assignments'. This week I am doing a salute to royalty. I have B.B. King, Elvis (the king of Rock 'n Roll) as well as Sammy Kershaw... He has a song titles 'Queen of my Double Wide Trailer' and I could not resist.
My roommates and I take turns cooking throughout the week, however, our skills seem to be limited to enchiladas, homemade burritos, chili, and corn tortillas. Needless to say we are seeing that finding new recipes can be a daunting task since there are some things that we cannot get in Nome. Or, the ingredients are available, but we are on a nice tight food budget.
In case you are reading this and have some simple recipes that 4 twenty somethings can follow please FELL FREE to email them to me! I promise we would appreciate that. I guess I am not doing too bad if my only complaint is that we are getting sick of the food we are making. I know, I lead a hard life.

As always thanks for the prayers and support, I not only appreciate it, but I could not be here without it!

Do not forget PICTURES can be seen by going to www.laura-davis.com or www.flickr.com/photos/david-dodman

My roomies are far better photographers than I!

Village Trip- Teller, Alaska

This past weekend I had the pleasure of attending my first cultural and dance festival in Teller, Alaska. Only a day trip, a fellow volunteer Jacob and I took off around 9:30 am and headed north in the 'highway' 71 miles, on a road not completely paved or even maintained past October 1st. I realize this might be a foreign concept to some readers in the Lower 48, but most roads outside of town are not maintained past specific dates since the weather tears them apart and the area is so desolate. It would be a constant struggle. So, The villages we are able to reach by car in the spring, summer, and fall are not accessible in the winter months.

The festival began on Friday with dancers from Savoonga, Brevig Mission, Anchorage, Teller, Shismereff and a few others. However we did not arrive until Saturday in the early afternoon.

As Jacob and I drove the 71 miles away from the 'big city' of Nome we were greeted with blue skies, fall colors draped over the tundra and two herds of Caribou. Now, 71 miles is not far, but on a dirt road full of pot holes and with eyes on the lookout for wildlife traveling can add a significant amount of extra time. That, and I am not really used to these Alaskan 'highways'.

Upon our arrival we found the school, which was not too difficult since the village consists of beach, and two streets. Pictures will never do justice to the beauty and majesty that Alaska provides. I have never seen anything that compares.
The elementary school was buzzing with women running food back in forth in preparation to feed their out of town guests. Jacob and I walked around trying to take everything in and trying to absorb the atmosphere.

Walking down the single hall of the school I could see the murals an artist I know who worked so intently on some time before. James Adcox, you should check his stuff out, really, he is amazing.

Going all the way down the hall we reached the back door, a cool breeze with water hit my face and I stool in amazement at the surrounding mountains and water that stood before me. Remembering that I was there working- I wondered how I got this job in the first place.

We were invited to lunch in the cafeteria with the dancers and drummers, festival coordinators and volunteers. Food is always a welcoming surprise when you are in a new place. So, I dipped the ladle into the white mixture with meat floating around, snatched some fried bread and sat down. As the introductions and conversation subsided the woman next to me looked at me and said 'Oh, you are eating reindeer tongue.' My thoughts? Well, I cannot stop now. I was wondering why it was a little chewy.

I told Jacob, and he wanted to try it- so we retreated back to the kitchen and scooped up a clean bowl and spoon for him to experience. I have been eating so many new things- always keeps me on my toes, looking out for one more experience while I am here.

We ventured to find the beading workshop and after a few minutes watching me stick myself with a sewing needle and drop colored beads all over the floor Jacob went to watch the Eskimo games in the gym down the hall. Funny thing was that the Nome newspaper the 'Nome Nugget' showed up, and I am in this weeks issue, beading with the ladies in Teller, and I look lost like I always do in situations when arts and crafts are involved.

After I finished my project triumphantly I found Jacob and we ventured back outside to walk around the village.

We had some downtime until the dancing and drumming was scheduled to begin at 7:30 pm.

Eskimo drumming and dancing are something to relaly see. I suggest if you do not have the option to venture up here to the Great Land you should venture online and find some videos. There was a dance done by the Savoonga performers called 'Rock n Roll' and the woman danced like 'white women' do for rock and roll songs. I have to admit, the accuracy was impeccable. Entertaining to say the least.

Between interviewing the coordinators and recording some of the drummers and dancers for air on KNOM Jacob and I could sit and take in the dancing. To watch these various groups gather together and entertain one another through drumming and dancing is powerful. I do not know what they are singing but you can still feel the passion and heritage that is being passed. The children mock the adults and seem to naturally feel the movements.

Since each group seems to play about one hour Jacob and I only really saw Savoonga and Brevig Mission. After all, we had a 2 1/2 to 3 hour drive ahead of us.

We had a full and powerful day. A great way to really understand who I am here to serve in Western Alaska. I am thankful that KNOM enthusiastically sends out the volunteers to see and understand who we are here to serve and support. I look forward to future village trips- although I am still working on writing my news stories, not exactly something that comes easy for me. I am working on it, always challenging. KNOM, I feel as if that is their motto. They expect nothing less than your 100% best efforts. Not a bad way to be introduced into the working world.

I would like to say thank you to everyone for their support and prayers. Sometimes it is hard being here- away from Borders, coffee shops and friends, but it gets easier day by day. The community at the house is amazing, and we are all getting along so well. Thanks to my packages, the house now has Scatagories-Bible Edition- that should make for an interesting Saturday night in winter weekends to come!

Stay safe and I am praying for all of you as well. Feel free to send me a letter, give me a call, or better yet- plan a trip up here!

PS- IT SNOWED TODAY! FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE I HAVE BEEN HERE!

A Venture to the Tundra

With out fourth volunteer for the 2007-2008 KNOM year we decided to venture out onto the tundra. Even though this area is not known for their endless trees due to the permafrost do not be fooled that we would not experince the colors of fall. The tundra turns astonishing colors of red, orange and yellow- and I hear this is the best time to pick cranberries. A former KNOMer Liz, has lived here for three years and apprently after the first real freeze the black berries are the best. I had in fact tasted them before the freeze and she is right, the first time not so good, but tonight I actually enjoyed them.
I work on Saturdays- all day. I record/read the weather, hotlines, and news and DJ a good portion of the morning and afternoon. Also, after KNOM hotlines I host the 'Saturday Music Request Show' and you guessed it, I take requests. While KNOM has strict guidelines on what get airtime we try to play what people call and ask to hear. When KNOM decides not to play a song it could be sending messages consisting of: promiscuity, glorifying alcohol or drugs, or even suicide. And if you listen to the lyrics- some songs are ridiculous. Talented, but ridiculous.
So this Saturday I had some requests for some 80s rock band as well as Cross Canadian Ragweed and they were not in our computer system or on CD, but they were on record. Yes, that is right, I was able to play with a turn table! Get excited.
For some reason the past few days I have been excessively hyper. I think it is because of the rain we have had lately. However, I have learned that you get to a point where you stop carrying and just go walk regardless of current precipitation levels.
Today Jacob, David, Laura, Dan (who works at the National Weather Service), and former KNOMer Liz, all went on the Teller 'highway' (nothing like I-10 in Texas or 85 in NC) and drove far enough out of town to take a small hike up the side of a small mountain and look over the town of Nome and into the Bering Sea. The wind was strong- but we took advantage of it and Jacob put up his jackets like wings and I followed in suit and I promise I almost could almost stop supporting myself and rely on the wind to keep me up. Phenomenal. I need a kite.
During my Saturday work schedule I have a three hour break from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. which is nice I must say. So, the house deceided to go see the Bourne Ultimatum. Which was absolutely amazing... go see it, now!

I am also now in contact with my Mom's 1st grade class- they call me and ask me questions about Alaska and living in Nome. They thought it was shocking that we did not have a Wal Mart. Awesome.
The weather is getting cooler and windy. Yes, windy. The past two nights the electricity has gone out. Go figure- and I have remained on time for things. Knock on wood. I need to buy a clock that takes a battery- so I can be sure to make it to work.
We are losing about 5-6 minutes of daylight a day and let me tell you it is weird that the sun does not rise til past 9 a.m. This is my life so far.

Looking to be a promising year.

Bread!

This past Sunday the 16th a former KNOM volunteer that still lives in Nome came over to the house and educated me in the fine art of bread and jam making. It was amazing! Needless to say I had a GREAT time and I throughly enjoyed learning what all goes into making homemade bread and jam. Also, the bread just tastes so much better! I mean who knew? It does take a few hours but it was worth it, while we waited at various times for the four loaves to rise I learned how to make peach spice jam. I know I am going to be little miss suzie homemaker...


yeah, right.

I am also LEARNING how to play the guitar. Right now I am learning off of my church's extra one so I only really get to practice 2 times a week. Thanks to a friend at the weather service here in Nome I am learning to play 'Smelly Cat'... if you know the show FRIENDS you know what I am talking about. It is a grand old time.

New Assignment

Well I officially have taken over a hour long show titled 'Music Detour'. Basically, I take a look down the 'musical road less traveled' if you will. My first one was on Texas singers and songwriters. So I only did the best. Check out the line up:
Guy Clark
Selena
Buddy Holly
Willie Nelson
ZZ Top
Destiny's Child

Yes, that is right. Only the best representation for Western Alaska! The next one is going to be done for broadcast next Friday the 28th. My topic? I am heading to the Foothills. The place that I miss deeply, the Blue Ridge Mountains. My genre is going to be 'Bluegrass of the Blue Ridge' and I am excited.
I really learned to appreciate bluegrass in North Carolina- so I felt the need to spread the love.
We have a full house now. Our final volunteer, Jacob, arrived this morning. He will be a News Reporter here at KNOM.
If you are interested in checking out the things we are doing do nto forget to check out the website: www.knom.org
Over the next few months we should be getting a internet face lift so visit often!

Fall Time!

Well as the locals are informing me fall is here! This means nothing but windy weather. We still have not had our real first frost that I am aware of. However, I am rather enjoying the gray sky and the wind. It reminds me of the NC foothills and mountains. Not a bad thing, just the fact that it is cool, breezy and relaxing!
I was driving an elder home from church yesterday and we drove past a TREE. Granted, it was a small tree. But she said 'Yes, fall is here.' All the leaves had changed- something I really miss. There is nothing like a fall drive along the parkway.

A few weeks ago I was on the radio talking about how I enjoyed comic books and their movie counterparts, which are NEVER as good but they try. A few minutes later a man was ringing the radio stations door bell and a man was standing there with some old comic books to loan me to read. How sweet was that? I mean Nome is all like that for the most part.

MOON!

Well I know it is very basic but tonight I saw the moon. Big deal for you, but for this kid in Nome this is the first time in two months and I was surprised- I have seen it on television and everything but I forgot how great our God and his phenomenal creation really is.
I ventured out to Safety Roadhouse tonight with the other volunteers and other people in the Nome community to attend a going away party. The skies where beautiful. This place is gorgeous and I am sorry for not taking a camera but my roommates both have websites that they periodically update... so be patient. They are the photographers so I will supply you with the written aspect of life while they will appeal to the visual senses.
Sound good?

www.laura-davis.com

or

http://www.flickr.com/photos/david-dodman/page21/

Berry Picking/Darkness

Last Sunday I went berry picking with a woman from church. If you haven't gone to a place in complete silence to take food directly from the earth you should try it. Talk about elementary. Besides the fact that the berries where everywhere covering the hills of the tundra, the sky was gorgeous. We could hear someone coming from miles away.
I really hadn't picked berries like that before. We where out there for hours I picked a gallon of blueberries and cranberries. They are great in pound cake by the way.
Recently we have been teased with more amazing weather.
It has been clear, sunny and warm.
Apparently a sign that summer is over is when the Fireweed flower reaches the top of the plant. You can see that most no longer have flowers- which is a sign that fall is right around the corner.
I cannot wait... the tundra is supposed to be covered with all sorts of fall colors like when leaves change. I do miss trees.
I saw stars for the first time in almost 2 months! It is so odd. Just when I was really getting used to the sunlight, going fishing at 10 pm and berry picking til late the darkness has started to creep upon us.
However, seeing the darkness on one side of the sky with stars, and light on the other I am starting to feel the need for night. I know that sounds weird but I forgot how awesome nighttime can be for you. How relaxing and rejuvenating it is.
Isn't that odd how we can forget how great something is when it is gone. something so simple, like darkness.
The good thing is that the mosquitoes are not too bad with the warm breeze.

KNOM's many activites

There are many amazing aspects of KNOM. That is why it is hard for me to display to you everything at once. If you are in the lower 48 it might be hard to decipher how life would be without phones, running water, or electricity. We reach so many areas like that and it is important for us to stay awake on issues and current events around Alaska. I however, have all of those things so it is sometimes hard to really imagine that still...
On a lighter note, one of the programming ideas we all take part in are the KNOM Crew Picks. This is where I might take a song and talk about it a little. Perhaps a little history or just a personal reflection. I have done Simon and Garfunkel's 'Sounds of Silence' and 'Free' by Shawn McDonald. The great thing is that we are not required to stay in any particular genre, so I can pluck music from anywhere I desire- as long as it is appropriate of course.
To my Lower 48 supporters, remember, feel free to email me and ask any questions. I have already received some interesting ones, so I do not think many will bother me.

Elim, Alaska-First Village Trip!

I had the opportunity to go on my first village trip to Elim, Alaska with the News Director Paul Korchin.
We left Nome in the morning August 7th and flew on one of those small planes that holds about ten people.

We went to Elim to attend a village meeting on Uranium mining. There is a Canadian based mining company doing exploratory research on the area, and a Navajo Indian was present to talk about the effects of mining close to his village in New Mexico. His people have seen the negative repercussions from mining that has not been taken care of. People have tumors and other various cancer illnesses. Unfortunately since it has also gotten into the water system and the ground plants their animals also have the toxic substances in their body- infecting all aspects of the food chain.
It was extremely interesting to see how the villagers are responding to this sensitive topic.
I was only there for the day so Paul and I went to the beach area and it was a gorgeous day. The area looked like Washington state coastline.


I really enjoyed going on this village trip. It is neat to walk to different offices in Elim and hear KNOM playing. It helps to realize why we do what we do.
Also, an island called Little Diomede is completely out of phone service right now and the only way for people to communicate is through KNOM's hotlines- which is also pretty neat...

KNOM-Award Winning Station

KNOM won the Gabriel award from Catholic Broadcasting for Station of the Year!
I feel so privileged to be apart of an award winning station!
This makes 15 total and 12 consecutive years winning this prestigious award.

Health Insurance

In Western Alaska there are remote villages and areas that do not have local health aides. In turn people have to travel to distance villages or towns for treatment and care. When it comes to health care why is this such an issue.
From my experience in Nome, Alaska so far it seems that people are punished for living in remote villages away from stress and the hustle and bustle of city life. Let me tell you, it is a whole different life up here. I have stress yes, but it does not have such a push of urgency as it does in the Lower 48. It really is magnificent.
There are people that live off the land and work hard to have food for winter months. In order to do this people live far from any place that has adequate hospitals and other various health services. Sure people come through town for visits but that is the extent of it all.
So, why are these people being punished?
Health Care is a major concern and a huge reason we as Americans have a nation that cannot afford decent health coverage is because we grow deeper and deeper in debt.
Due to the lack of funds to pay hospital bills because Johnny broke his leg and a few ribs hunting and had to be helicoptered into Anchorage the family is now out $16,000. Something is wrong with this picture. Johnny's parent's cannot afford this. So, the hospital is never paid and then cannot afford more doctors, and the doctors and nurses that are 'cut' are the traveling ones that could help Johnny in his home village.
This vicious cycle continues. Health Care Reform is a must. There is no doubt.

What can we do about this?

I know there is Denali Kid Care for people who qualify... but what about those that don't?
Also, there is a chance the funding will be pulled. What then?

Nome is Home

I really feel that I have now settled into Nome, Alaska. I am starting to see familiar faces on the street and on the way to the post office.
We are getting ready to say goodbye to a key part of the Nome community, Jesse Zink. He will be venturing to South Africa in missions and our prayers follow him to the clinic that he will be serving.
Nome has some wonderful opportunities for involvement. If church is not your forte then there are things like the Arts Council, helping out at the schools, Choir in the holiday months, hiking in the midnight sun, community activities coming out of every corner. I already can see how it would be difficult not to become involved in some way, shape, or form at some point. I think that people would have to avoid situations completely in order to avoid getting involved or even asked.

Jessefest / Family Fun Night in Nome

A night of awesomeness!

One of the volunteers that has been here for 2 years is getting ready to depart the Gold Rush City. Jesse Zink will be moving on in his life of service to Mthatha, South Africa to work in a clinic through the Episcopal. In turn, the city of Nome has really been impacted by this person, so they threw a Family Fun Night with games, free food and drinks, as well as Native Eskimo Game competitions and a dance competition.
I did arrive late since I was at a 'stamp party' making cards for a local church.
Upon arrival I was able to participate in the suitcase race where you run and put all the clothes on in the suitcase, run back to your line, clap three times, and then the next person puts on all the clothes and has to run back and put all the clothes back. It did take forever, but it was hilarous to see a grown man wear a onesie nighty and other various items.
There was also a person returning from Eskimo games that placed very highly I am sure in the womans high kick.
So she demonstrated and we all got in line. You jump off both feet, kick the ball with one foot and have to land on the foot you kicked with showing balance. I have to admit my cheerleading skills came into play here. I did win a knife for willing in the women's category! I am a kicking champion!Pictures are coming I promise!
Last but not least there was a DANCE COMPETITION. I am not about to sit out for that.
There where 4 songs to qualify for the final round, I won the round with the Electric Slide... I know, I am awesome.
So the LAST dance was a 'freestyle', uuuhh ohhh... I had no idea what to do. Then it came on... Grease. Any female that has been to sleepovers knows this music.
So, what is a girl to do? Break out the dance that everyone MADE you learn for hours at slumber parties.
In the end of 'Summer Lovin'' Jesse and I collaborated, and I was, yes, Olivia Newton John.
We, won! First prize? Split $100 in dollar coins. Yes, I am not only a Eskimo high kick winner for the Nome Family Fun Night/JesseFest but a dance champion.... only in Nome can I win a dance contest.
I owe it all to passion, yes kids. Dream and you too one day will win a dance contest.
Follow your dreams....

Culture Shock?

I do not know if I was just mentally prepared or what but I have not had a hard time adjusting to the cultures up here. More often then not I do find myself with people from the Lower 48. However, my church is the exact opposite.
With a pastor originally from Korea and a 99% of the congregation native I have found myself the minority when it comes to worship. I am learning that in many cultures there are many ways to praise our Father, as I knew before but had not really experinced first hand. I knew there where traditional and contemporary services, but seeing people dance in dedication to Jesus was a very enlightening experience. There was a woman who sang Kumbya (I cannot spell). To most people in the Lower 48 this would make their eyes roll. Wait, this woman got out of her seat during the service and wanted to sing it.
She began in English then went into Yu'pik, she cried while she sang and told the congregation that she was crying out much like the slaves had, for mercy for her people. Asking God to have mercy on them. She has it, why can't that be shared?

So that, really got me... it was not culture shock... but spiritual shock.
It does worry me when people are not as open minded when it comes to alternative views and means of worship. For that woman at that moment, let me into her spiritual connection with the father. In her language in her way. Why is that not ok?
Some people do not accept worshiping in alternate languages that once might have worshiped another God or multiple Gods. I have news for you...
People lost in the desert spoke a language that is holy... and some worshiped idols while they lost faith in God. Does that make it an 'unclean language'?
People make assumptions about others and their culture solely based on their own experiences. Open your world, stale air can really get you down.
Give yourself a spiritual shock, visit a culture different then your own, you may find something about yourself that you never new before.

Weather Update

For about a week the temperature was getting about 70 degrees every day and the sun was shinning and was daunting for those of us that had to work the next day, inside of course.
It was not too bad since the post office and all amenities are all within walking distance so it makes pleasant errand runs during my lunch break.
I can tell the difference between the evening sun and the sunlight before the summer solstice. Life is getting easier when it comes to sleep since it is getting a little darker. I am sure the overcast clouds help as well.
I have found a church here in Nome- Nome Presbyterian USA and the Rev. is from Korea where my older brother is headed off to soon to teach English. My parents have me here in Alaska and my older brother in Korea... I guess they do not have to worry about breaks and fridge raids! My little brother is a sophomore in college so he gets the house to himself. That and really neat places to visit.
I have passed some great time reading up here. I have steamed through Courage and Calling, First Person Plural and now I am in Mere Christianity and Crossing Cultures.
One small fact: If people are unable to sleep with the midnight sun they put foil over their windows- this prevents any light from coming in. Yes it can be depressing and dark but just open your hall door and the light shines right on in.
Also, one of my roommates just left after his year of service and is headed back to Philly and will be greatly missed. He is a great music director and I wish him the best of luck.

Remember when you entered the door...

I am going to rant a little because I can.
I am despised when people believe that they alone in their church can bring others to Christ.
When people are excited about their church the experience is that much more special and touching to them. They open themselves to the Holy Spirit and share their experiences and therefore grow not only with themselves but with others in Christ.
So thank you to a friend’s posted poem I can use the analogy that, some no longer ‘stand by the door.’
I beg you to remember how you felt before God came into your life. I mean when you completely gave up and succumbed to his infinite wisdom and love.
How it felt to never understand how people gave up complete control and let God run their lives or remember the church and it’s place in your life, toxic or wonderfully supportive. There was an effect on your faith and hope in God.
However, some people do take pride in their church and I think that is a good thing- to an extent. When people feel that their single church is capable of transforming the world alone- and only them, we run in a major wall in the Christian community.

Proverbs 11:2
“Pride leads to disgrace, but with humility comes wisdom.” (NLT)
“When pride comes, then comes disgrace, but with the humble comes wisdom.” (ESV)

These are only two translations I understand but what this small verse boils down to shows volumes. The pride we have in our youth programs and our Bible studies means nothing if we are not doing so with humility- not turning others away just because one is Baptist and the other is Nazarene. Feeling that we cannot speak of our Savior because there are different beliefs.
What are you afraid of?
Challenging one another and sharing beliefs not only enhances fellowship and a better understanding of the LORD but is one of the best things you can do for yourself. As humans on earth we where made for community, to hold one another accountable, to seek the Kingdom of the LORD with each other. We cannot do this alone.
So why are our churches feeling that they can do it all, alone?

I attended Charlotte One in Charlotte, NC and was moved that over a dozen churches from various denominations gather together Tuesday nights at 7:30 for fellowship. They do so humbly to share in Christ’s fellowship with others.
We all believe in the same thing.
One son conceived by the Holy Spirit.
Born of the Virgin Mary.
Died for us, for our sins, and can never die again. (Romans 6:1-11)
One father that loves us regardless of our past, present, and sinful future.

So what is stopping us from humbling ourselves? We do not have it correct all the time so we need to let the Christian community in. If your church where to fall- would there be another to help pick it up?
We are here to support and feed another. To clothed the bare and to help the sick.
I am reminded again of the quote ‘Churches are not hotels for the staints- but rathers hospitals for the sinners.’
When did we stop feeding the hungry souls the food that they needed?
My food is different from yours. I feed in another way, and love me for it. Love me for the fact that I must discuss and interact to understand. And you, you can learn form merely watching and understanding. Others see elders and loved ones and feel passion and accept Christ. Others have a rough road ahead and must experience more tragedy and pain to realize.
Understand God made all of us.

We are ONE church in Christ together, and if we take away our pride and stand by the door together, maybe, just maybe, more would see the beauty of the kingdom.

Biblical Inspiration:
Romans 6
Romans 12
Proverbs 11
Proverbs 18:12

Good people are guided by their honesty; trecherous people are destroyed by their dishonesty.

Proverbs 11:3

If you did not believe in Global warming come up to Alaska.
I was unsure about many things involving the planet warming up.
The permafrost in many places in Alaska is melting. There are entire villages that are needing to be relocated. Talk to people that are directly affected.

For more information on this issue visit my roommate's blog who is the News Reporter for KNOM.

nomeak.blogspot.com

Midnight Sun/ City Claustrophobia

The midnight sun is beginning to have an impact on my sleep. My body sees how nice and amazing it is outside and my brain tells me that midnight is already late enough to be heading to bed with a full day of work ahead. The ability to go on a walk at midnight is so freeing.
I was thinking about how odd it would be already to go driving on a highway, walk in a mall, or sit at a busy restaurant. With the gorgeous tundra to my left and the open sea to my right this place makes you feel like you are cannot be contained. No wonder people fall in love with the 'Last Frontier.'
Everything just goes on into endless beauty.
There are no city buildings blocking a landscape or a highway preventing you from seeing the open land.
This is a whole different place entirely.
If anyone is interested in coming to visit me feel free to email me. Remember though, there are sometimes when people cannot really travel in, and sometimes are better than others for prices. I would imagine the Iditarod is probably not the cheapest time to visit Nome...

Nome Life/HOTLINES

I am getting into the groove of daily Nome life. Taking walks on the beach at night, since it is light outside, and in general exploring the town itself.
There is problem with alcohol in this area and it is apparent at night on the seawall. Many people here suffer through severe hardships, and I am reminded why KNOM has the mission that it does.
It remains to be important to serve the communities in western Alaska. The demographic here is like none other. There are people that do not speak English so that does make communication difficult sometimes. I have to remember that when I am broadcasting so I do not talk to fast... as you can imagine I am trying!
KNOM has something called HOTLINES everyday at 12:15 pm and 5:15 pm. This is a way to communicate with people in areas that may not have a phone or even electricity. Maybe people are out hunting or fishing and are 100 miles from a phone. People can call KNOM and send a message to someone and we will broadcast it over the airwaves.
This is important in this area since many do not have means of communication any other way. Sure there is mail, but that is no quick venture.
If you have seen Northern Exposure, you know what I am talking about.
We will have people call telling their loved ones that grandma is in the hospital and to call as soon as they are able. Connecting people, this job is awesome.
Village hotlines. All they have to do is call.

Warming Up!

It has really warmed up since yesterday! Today the tempurature is 69! That is so refreshing to me, being from south Texas of course.
I just might so swimming since it is almost 30 degrees warmer then when I participated in the Polar Bear Swim two weeks ago.
I have completed offcial training at KNOM, but I have not learned everthing! There is just too much to take in.
Production is a blast though, I am loving having all of this creative freedom.
I create 30 to 90 second spots about everything from cocaine to 'how to become a pilot'. Alas, an attention deficit person's dream... If I get bored, I just switch subjects. There is so much to do and learn.
The culture up here is an interesting experince.
Tomorrow is the 4th of July! :)
There is a parade and games downtown. I wish I had stilts for the stilt walking race... :)
I think I would break something... and you all know that is the truth! My middle name is not Grace for nothing!

Midnight Hike

I just returned from hiking, and when we left the mountain it was 11... at night. The land here is gorgeous and to have this opportunity to see this land is amazing.
I went with the other KNOM volunteers and some people in the community, I could not believe my eyes half the time. The scenery was something off a digital image of a postcard. Alaska is a land of so much beauty in not only the native cultures but also the background.
The long days are great for outside activity, but that does hurt for work in the morning!
The downside is that since I only have 2 pairs of pants right now, I wore my jeans hiking and they definitely ripped in an inappropriate place... so it is khakis until I can make it to the thrift shop in the area that is open for only one hour a week, Thursday cannot come soon enough!
On my day off yesterday I also ventured to east beach where I looked for sea glass.

Yes, I am in a wonderful place meeting amazing people, and gaining Christian fellowship with each passing day. I am feeling more blessed then ever. I still appreciate the prayers with all of my en devours, and know that everyone back in the lower 48 and currently some in Europe are always in mine.

Salsa Weekend

This past weekend the Nome Arts Council brought in a 9 member salsa band that played and taught salsa all weekend. I danced Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights to some amazing music, and I got to use some of my south Texas dance skills! This weekend was amazing!
Saturday was the Polar Bear Plunge where people gather on Nome's East beach and jump into the Bering Sea! You had to be soaked from head to toe to receive an Achievement Certificate, yes I received one... of course! It was 40 degrees outside and I am staying ignorant to how cold the water was. In that case ignorance is bliss.

So far in Nome, Alaska I have experinced:

Mucktuck - a delicacy of whale fat... it was not too bad
The Bering Sea- awww freezing my body in another body of water! My legacy continues...
The Midnight Sun- It is light when I wake up, light when I go to work, light when I eat dinner, light when I go to bed, light when I sleep... you get the picture.
Salsa Dancing in Nome... crazy.
SQUARE DANCING lessons in Nome, I cannot escape.

my first few days...

I have begun observing and looking over all of my manuals and requirements of me while I am a staff member of KNOM. Everything is looking to be quite a challenge, but a welcoming one. I am excited to learn and begin in the production duties, creating spots, conducting interviews and ect.
I found out that the news reporter is not the only one that will fly to outlying villages to do interviews. I will have opportunities to venture out into western Alaska to cover festivals or various cultural events. With these adventures I am told that you normally take a change of clothes, the equipment, food and a sleeping bag. This is all due to the fact that you will spend the night there or even get stuck. You typically will be sleeping on a school classroom floor and possibly without a shower available. This is going to be quite an adventure.
With the various awards the station has received in the past I have rather large shoes to fill. I am most definitely not treated just as a volunteer, I am to be a professional, which is intimidating but this is why I chose this program. The opportunities for adventure and growth are endless. I only have to be willing to seek them all out.

Just another day.

Today so far is amazing. All my room mates have gone out of their way to make me feel welcome and show me around Nome. Today I attended a methodist Church here in Nome with a volunteer Jesse, who is going to Africa in August. Everyone was genuinely friendly. There were 30 missionaries there beginning their two weeks stay working at the church.

I did the doxology in an Inuit dialect and they also sang a song too. Talk about being immersed in a new culture. This is exciting, I thrive ofF these new experiences.

I also got a tour of the station, so I got to see all the production rooms and the on-air facilities. KNOM's equipment is rather impressive for a non-profit station. They have up to date software as well. There are many stations that I have been to that have had programs and equipment so outdated that it does hinder their delivery. I am anxious to learn the new programs.

I am so excited to see what the LORD has in store for me. This is AMAZING!

The voyage to Nome

My flight from Seattle to Anchorage started off on the wrong foot. At first they told me that I was unable to check in because the flight was coming up as canceled (good thing I was there at 5:30 a.m. so I had other options). In turn, I was placed on a flight an hour later. When I arrived at my new flight’s gate -there it was flight 93 to Anchorage- the one that was canceled. Go figure, story of my life. On top of that my bags were not able to be checked in and I left them in the mercy of the airline staff.
I sat next to this guy names Jose. He is a worker on a crab boat in the Alaskan waters. Interesting man that is for sure. I believe that it takes a certain person to have the abilities to work on a job that dangerous and that physically demanding. Courageous. He says that he is next getting his chef license to cook in New York City. Talk about a random life, he hates the boats but is doing one more year because the pay is good and it is only for two or three months. My prayers go out to him since he says his last boat had nothing but Japanese people and they told him that they did not like Latinos. So, they broke his locker and stole his things. Well, he is giving it another go, persistence I suppose.
I would like to say thank you again to all of the people that have made this mission possible. From jackets, scarves, gloves, boots or hand warmers. The things that you all have given me have been a tremendous help. Thank you for your generosity; it most certainly does not go unnoticed. I now feel very prepared for what I am about to experience, well as prepared as a south Texan can be 100 miles away from the Arctic Circle.  This girl is in for a whole new world of cold.
Can anyone say culture shock? I am ready for that to set in any time now…

I am here!

I have arrived! In one piece with ALL of my luggage. That is phenomenal! I hope that everyone is well and I appreciate all of the prayers and support the past few months before I arrived.

I flew over the Arctic Circle.

awesome.

I will get back when I have not been up for 20 hours.

tuesday: Seattle... friday: Nome

Here I am Monday night. I am packing last minute items and scrambling trying to make sure I have certain items, and of course they are no where to be found... thus my life.
I am however ecstatic that the LORD has given me this opportunity.

I would like to thank everyone that has helped and supported me through this process. Everyone in my life has been supportive and gracious as I venture to Nome. For that, I am eternally thankful. Without this fellowship support adventures like mine would be much more trying and difficult. Knowing I have people praying for me lifts me up to do my best in Nome.

Anyone interested in emailing me during my time can do so by means of Kristinaeproctor@yahoo.com

I do have internet access up there 100 miles from the arctic circle so no worries, my social networking addictions, as well as your own, will be met.

I am praying for everyone back in the lower 48 and beyond. Praying that God will shine through all of you for the good of the world.

God speed to all.

Well, here goes nothing!

two weeks

Here I am with two weeks until I depart for Seattle where I will be visiting my child friend Megan for a few days followed by a flight the 15th for Nome, Alaska. I have been keeping track of the weather and it seems rather pleasant on the peninsula, with temperatures in the low fifties for highs and high thirties for the low. Talk about a major climate change! San Antonio will get down to the thirties if it is the 'dead' of winter. Hickory, NC did get cooler but not by much.
I am not stressing about heading up there, I know that the LORD will provide. I have faith in Him that I will arrive safely.
This is a fantastic oppurtunity that I am incredibly blessed to experience! I realized that I am going to get the oppurtunity to cover the Iditarod dog sled race .
When I had my last internship at a radio station in Lenoir, NC I helped cover the local elections. I throughly enjoyed this task of being around the constant updates and twists races made. Needless to say it was exciting.
With this political season the already controversial things are sure to get even more interesting!

Here I go with two weeks left around everything that I am used to.
Glorious Father God, thank you for this adventure!

Courage and Calling

I recently was privileged to take part in Rockbridge, an InverVarsity Christian Fellowship retreat where worship and fellowship are, no doubt, in abundance. I not only was able to experience worship in languages such as Hebrew, French, Spanish, and Mandarin allowing me to expand my worship experiences into other cultures through their words and beats but I also met various fellow college students and recent graduates in my small group track of 'Life After College'.

This track gave us a place to discuss the future situations we as graduates are about to face. The topics consisted of tithing, parental relationships, work ethics, budgets, and so much more. Our track leaders also had panel time where we could freely ask questions. The topics and time of prayer we had together allowed me to realize that everyone does battle the same issues.

One main topic that people struggled with was the 'need' and 'call'. There are places in the world that are undoubtedly in need of people and support. However, if you go somewhere in need and do not feel a call from the LORD to go there, then you could be hindering not only your own call but someone else's that feels the call to be where you are now.

One book that I picked up from IV Press is called

COURAGE AND CALLING.

This book discusses the need for everyone to listen to their specific calling from the LORD because that is a gift from GOD. Therefore, sacred.
Sometimes things in life can get confused and fuzzy. This book allows us to explore the Biblical need to listen and follow our purpose and reason GOD put us here on Earth.
One important aspect that we all have to come to terms with, our spiritual gifts. These are not things that we wish that we had or talents that our parents push us to have, they are GIFTS from the LORD above. To ignore them would be ignoring what GOD has put us here for.
You have to be true to yourself. Do not listen to society, they tell us that to do it all alone. We are never alone.
Take a good look at yourself and remember this quote:

The place God calls you to is the place where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet. - FREDERICK BUECHNER

Even when you have the calling and you are certain, it will still not be easy. You are not alone.

As I ventured home after Rockbridge I reflected back on all I learned and had never felt more compelled to go to Alaska, let me tell you it was a wonderful feeling.
Go after your calling-it will not be easy but you will be fulfilled in more ways then you know.
Not everyone is called to missions. Some are called to make money or to help so others can serve. Take those gifts to glorify the LORD. Do not feel lower then anyone because you are not an African missionary or a banker in New York. God will bless you with gifts that will help you glorify his plan for you here on earth. He will put dreams and passions in your heart. Do not ignore them, let them thrive.


http://www.intervarsity.org/

Preparation

I am in the process of graduating from college, leaving the security and the safety net that I have become accustomed to and love. Challenges have always been something that have driven me and I know that the LORD uses that for his will, which is exciting.
He has instilled that feeling in me and I thank him for it everyday.

This new adventure that also brings me to a place that makes leave my family, friends and fellowship, I am leaving my home. However by leaving I am going with GOD. Where he is, is home.

Am I scared? Of course. But with faith and complete trust in the LORD I know that I am doing the right thing. Who else would move to the Arctic tundra? GOD does speak, and if you listen hard enough you can hear and feel him there pushing you along. No matter how you feel about who and what you are leaving behind, he is there.

I came to here hoping to find a place. I didn't. I found friends, fellowship and a family. For the first time I found home.

So why am I leaving you ask? I know the love, and the fellowship the LORD has blessed me with. So, it is time to for me to give it to another.
I need to show the friendship and fellowship to others that do not know him.

We are not apart, I am with you and you are with me. You are a shining light in me, and I in you, and together we will light up the world. We will never leave each other, prayer and praising the LORD will hold us together eternally, and we will never be apart.
That is why I must leave, to venture on with faith in the LORD above. So we can be together forever, shining on the world.

Radio Fellowship

I am PROUD to announce that I will be joining KNOM in Nome, Alaska. I will be there for one year working for the Alaskan Radio Mission in production. Nome will defiantly be a learning experience. The Christian walk is leading me into some odd territories.

I think that it all comes down to listening to where the LORD is leading you. In my case... Nome, Alaska? Really?

This blog will follow my experiences in Nome with everything from the fellowship to the adjustment of snow! This south Texas girl is going to have some real learning to do!