August 24: there's a rock in my boots.

Say it like Woody says it. I've seen Toy Story too many times and I don't even live with this kid. Anyways, today he didn't want to do much at the playground other than fill his boots with rocks and dump them out.  

August 23: termination point

I loved today. Four totally random people from four completely different places moved to Kodiak within the last four-five months, knowing nearly nobody. Somehow we all connected (I met Kayla and Alanna on the same hiking trip, and Kinsey is a fellow teacher). This hike was a blast. I loved laughing, geocaching, sharing stories, and having great discussions with these women. I feel very fortunate to have found them!  

Ps- the wind today was amazing. I can't stop laughing every time I see this picture. 

August 22: worst navigation ever

Alanna and I had an hour or so, and we decided to find a trail that was a little less popular. Even with a clear trail map (including step by step directions) and a compass, we couldn't even find this trailhead. We ended up going for a nice drive instead. When I was in Chicago, and all the streets ran on a grid, and the body of water was in one direction only, I was awesome at navigating. Here, I am always feeling lost. 

August 21: decompressing, part 2

Yep, after day 2 of teacher inservice I needed another walk. Which brought me to Abercrombie. And this view.  I am sure you are all getting sick of picture after picture of mountainous island. Newsflash: that's what we have here. And in a week I guarentee all my pictures will be school related. And who knows what you'll get in the dead of winter. So I would just hush up and take this :)

August 20, 2015: decompressing

I had my first official day of new teacher inservice.  Lots of helpful information, but I always come away feeling a little overwhelmed.  This district is going to be awesome to work for and I am really excited! But after hours in a room with lots of new people, this introvert needed a nice, long walk to clear her head and relax :)

I chose boyscout beach. The trail there is wooded and mossy. It was just what I needed to refuel and be ready for tomorrow! 

August 19, 2015: Lake on Old Woman

Today I met up with another teacher who is new to Kodiak. We hiked up Old Woman this morning.  This lake is set off to the side. It was tempting to hop down and swim! 

This evening I went to my first book club. I loved it. I was really satisfied today. Beautiful weather, new people, good conversation.  

August 18, 2015: bathroom... Check!

My shower was fixed today and my bathroom cabinet installed! No more getting ready in the car!! It was a happy moment :).