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Sunday, February 9, 2014

Countdown to...?

For the last four years this time has marked a special occasion in my heart, I have been approximately one month away from flying to Nome, Alaska. This year, I am not counting the days until a spring break trip to Nome.


As I sit on my couch, with snow on the ground outside and coffee in my hand, I remember all the wonderful memories that have occurred those four awesome weeks in Nome. The first time I stepped foot in Nome with my Dad right next to me. Meeting so many wonderful people, whose friendships I cherish to this day. It was the first of many times I have been asked when I am moving to Alaska. From that first trip, I knew Alaska was going to change my life and I couldn’t wait to return. I had no idea how much it would change my life, or how many times I would return over the next few years. 

Year two was my first attempt at trying to lead a team, and dealing with canceled flights. I took two amazing girls from my home church back my first year of college and again met so many new and amazing friends. I knew then that I would have the opportunity to spend my summer serving in the state I had grown to love and that I would continue to love more and more. I met people from Texas A&M who are some of my closest friends. And with the help of an awesome friend who took charge, everyone got home safely.

Year three was the time I felt a true and genuine connection to the people, community and volunteers in Nome. I worked in the Iditarod headquarters with the people who run the race. I heard stories from the trail while being in charge of making sure everyone that had to be at the finish line was there when a musher crossed. I was able to allow Cheryl and Candy the opportunity to leave the concession stand for a little while. 

Last year was the year when I was able to go beyond the boundaries of Nome. I traveled to a village to help put on a basketball show for the community. I grew even closer to the people I have worked with for four years. I had the blessing of helping provide locals with items that are not available in Nome. Figuring out how to cook and freeze crawfish was certainly an experience I will never forget. 


Each year brought a new and unique experience to my time serving. Each year I returned built on the previous years, pulling me more and more to a state I love so much. Who knows what the future holds, but I know my past. It has changed and shaped me in ways I never imagined. To all of those who I have worked with over the last few years, keep up the good work. I will miss you all terribly, but I know there is a reason I cannot be there this year. 

Here are a few pictures from all my Nome Spring Break trips. 

Year 1



Year 2 





Year 3 




   


Year 4