Random November Pics

On the road to Chitina

Copper River, Chitina

Valdez, Alaska-Taken by Teresa

Pippin Lake on my commute home

Shawna's Thoughts-Adjusting

When we first arrived in Alaska, a seasoned resident told us that Alaska is always trying to kill you. I thought he was talking about the animals and elements, but I believe there is an emotional aspect to that as well.

Although we are blessed to have family here, have met some wonderful people, live in a warm house with electricity and running water via a holding tank which David hauls in from the nearby fire station, adjusting to our new life in Alaska has been neither quick nor easy. I’ve kind of got the hang of going to town once in a while (a four hour drive to Anchorage) for the bulk of our shopping. I make lists of what we need, sort them by the store, and map out our route. So far I’ve been able to handle the weather, however I know winter has yet to truly occur. My car is stocked with a warm coat, snow bibs, boots, ice cleats, blanket and I make sure my cell phone is charged so that if I have trouble during the 40 mile commute, I can get help. I’ve got a plethora of wool socks on hand, a great supply of snuggly throws, and the pantry is stocked with food and lots of tea so my evenings at home are warm and cozy.

A difficult aspect of relocating has been moving into an unfinished house, living out of boxes for months and waiting to pull out the few knickknacks, baubles and windows treatments that make a house seem like a home versus a construction zone. David has done an incredible job on the renovations and has put in countless hours getting the most crucial tasks finished before winter. He’s been able to do some cosmetic touches lately and we are both enjoying the results.

 

I knew that there were going to be challenges at my new school. A counselor’s job is all about problems, if there weren’t any, I’d be out of a job. I was hired to do several tasks that typically don’t fall under the “counselor” category, but that’s the way it usually is in a small district and I have the credentials to tackle the jobs the principal needs me to undertake. I was aware of the demographics of the school and knew that I would be helping kids who have challenging home lives. Hang around any school long enough and you’ll also find kiddos who have significant issues with behavior and it’s my job to assist if I can. What I was not prepared for was the adult factor.

The elementary side of the building does not have space for my office so the Jr./Sr. high principal graciously gave me a spot to work in his end of the building. I am grateful for my space, however I am physically not a part of the elementary, which makes it difficult for the staff to get to know and trust me. Communication is hit and miss and mostly occurs via email which can be one-sided thus creating confusion or miscommunication. I’ve learned this the hard way and it can be a lonely lesson.

Learning to live and work in Alaska has presented its challenges, but the greatest challenge has been dealing with extreme homesickness. There are many times I’ve wanted to call and visit with friends and family, but knew if I did, I would cry and not be able to carry on a conversation. The pain of who and what I’ve left behind has almost consumed me at times and it’s been all I can do to breathe and press on.

I know God called us to come to Alaska. We have story after story of how he blessed us and paved the way for our move, and I have no doubt we are meant to be here. That is what I’ve held onto during this painful period of adjustment. My mom gave me a devotional book right before we left Kansas, and every single time I’ve hit the emotional wall I’ve been comforted by the words in that book and God’s word has sustained me. It’s been spooky, but more times than not, the words address specifically what I’m going through. The fact that Gods knows exactly what I need to hear on a specific day is humbling and although I do not know what the future holds for me, one thing I can be assured of is that the one who called me here will always be by my side and I will not be forsaken.

“I remember my affliction and my wandering, the bitterness and the gall I well remember them, and my soul is downcast within me. Yet this I call to mind and therefore I have hope: Because of the Lords’ great love we are not consumed, for his compassions never fail. They are new every morning; great is your faithfulness.”

Lamentations 3:19-23