Nome Nuptials

We got back to Nome again! And for what a great reason... the marriage of good friends Liz and Eric. Years ago they were KNOM volunteers and I worked with them--Liz stayed in Nome and Eric eventually moved back. It's a great story and I'm so happy they asked me to be part of their wedding party!

Andy also came up for a few days, but I spent most of my time visiting friends and former workplaces. G2 and G3 spent a hard day's work in Council. Staying with Nikki & Zeb in their new home was just like going home. We went beach glass gathering at East end and nearly tripped over this dead seal in the process! You never know what you'll find gracing the Golden Sands of Nome.

We also went scouting for good looking willows to take down as decoration for the wedding reception.The weather turned so nice for one night that we went back to the beach for a bonfire. This photo was taken with good friends during the Midnight Sun. Note the need for sunglasses!Before I knew it, the wedding arrived. Earlier this year Liz stayed with us one weekend, and that's when she bought her wedding dress. It was so special to be with her when she picked the dress and then to see her "live" it!Then I had to be asked to stop cutting the cake for them! Got a little carried away. :)Another special couple to Congratulate and wish all the best for their lives together.

It was more "normal" to be back in Nome this time than Christmas. A part of me felt like I hadn't moved at all. I'm so happy to keep connected.

*Amy

A Gov's Goodbye

I couldn't help it. I had to go to the Mat-Su Governor's picnic Friday night to see Palin in her home element before quitting on Sunday. Plus, Andy opted to work overtime for it and it was close to home, so why not join the hubbub?Everyone wanted a piece of Palin, so I dove into the crowd for a moment to peak at her and daughter Piper handing out hot dogs and watermelon. The part I liked was all the Commissioners for her Administration serving food for the entire picnic! Oh, do you want a bag of Doritos from the Commissioner of Health and Social Services?

Andy was a security "roamer" and I roamed until I found him all spiffed up.

He looked so official that he said people asked for photos with him! Our almost-new Governor Sean Parnell even shook his hand at the end and thanked him.

Despite the big crowd of Valley residents and a lot of Outsiders (that was amusing enough to watch), the other scenery was quite nice at Wonderland Park.

I was glad to have company for the picking a part of her public comments. During the military program she said what I was waiting to hear as Hometown Queen...this video ends with a short image of Alaska's new Lt. Gov and then Gov.

Just as I stopped recording a man ahead of me shouted , "I want you to be Commander in Chief." People went a little crazy. I just went crazy. :)

*Amy

Talkeetna Moose Droppings

Just some fun summer fair photos from Talkeetna earlier this month. According to the news and Trooper reports, it turned quite crazy and serious sometime after Andy & I left the Festival. It was certainly amusing while we there though. Who wouldn't love a love song performed on the main stage called "Nectarina & Avocado?"You could buy a $6 Turkey leg searing-hot off the grill, or something from this booth:*Amy

When Dad Visits...

...the Weather is very warm. My Dad flew up last minute early July and enjoyed wonderful Alaska weather. We took the opportunity to do some local sightseeing at Hatcher's Pass. Dad just loved the light blue and clear quality of the Little Susitna River.Andy & I liked exploring the old Independence Mine in the beautiful pass. It was my first time seeing it in summer.We also took a touristy stroll around Palmer's Musk Ox farm:

Many land mammals were warmed by the sun that day.

Dad gave gave me a tutorial on taking care of our yard as it's nearly overrun by clover and a cabbage-like weed. We worked on it for the bulk of a day! His yard in MN has always been highly regarded and he said this year it's the thickest yet. That's saying a lot for a yard you're usually too afraid to step on for fear of messing it up! Did I inherit the lawn gene? We'll see, but though my father has left, the water sprinkler is spraying...

*Amy

Shuttering

Out of AK, briefly

One week I was walking in the Denali National Park, and the next week I was hitting the pavement of downtown San Francisco. What a fun and varied summer it's been so far!

I had the awesome opportunity to attend the National Conference on Volunteering and Service. It was the largest gathering of its kind--ever. Of course I soaked in the inspiration & youth-specific workshops (for my job), but the General Assembly and some other events were mind-bogglingly cool! (and getting time with fellow AmeriCorps alums or coordinators.)

How often do you see Matthew McConaughey (far left) hanging around to speak on volunteering?

What are the chances of hearing California Governor Arnold S. speak some "key" phrases?! (and be noteworthy during the un-recorded portion of his message?)

Not often do you go from the splendor of AK summer to a vibrant skyline, above, as seen from my hotel window.

How often do you get swiped by Secret Service? Our keynote speaker was First Lady Michelle Obama! It's difficult to describe how thrilling that was..."I'm with my people, " she said.

Other guests at the conference included Maria Shriver, Arianna Huffington, Shaka Khan, Nancy Pelosi (below), and even an exclusive from Bon Jovi!

What a totally cool reason to leave AK during the summer, and during a busy month.

2009 is the Obama Administration's Summer of Service, concluding on 9/11. This is the time for all of us to make contributions where we live--big or small!

Oh, and not to brag but this is very cool too...I sat 7 rows behind Sean Penn on the flight from San Fran to Anchorage. Seems he was going camping with his teenage son, given the tent sack, sleeping pads and backpack he pulled out of the airport baggage claim. It looked like I was the only one to recognize him, or care to watch his every move!

*Amy

Happy Belated 4th of July...

...from Andy, me & my Dad, Joe!

It was a 42-hour turn-around from getting Dad's ticket to AK from MN and his arrival! It's great to have him here this week during the warm weather. As you can see, Andy and Dad took part in traditional 4th of July activities...yard games and cool beverages!

Hope you enjoyed your holiday celebrations this weekend!

*Amy