A Day at the Coast

Hiking, napping on the beach, squishing sand between my toes, and an intense round of botchy ball were some of the fun I had with friends, John and Erin, on Saturday. As part of my transition process, spending time with important people and going to important places are part of saying good-bye, so John, Erin, and I spent the day at the coast enjoying 80 degrees on a gorgeous day.

We hiked Saddle Mountain, where on this clear day we saw Mt. Rainier, Mt. St. Helens, Mt. Adams, Mt. Hood, and the Pacific Ocean. It was a satisfying end to the steep slope and great workout.
After our great hike, we took a nap in the sun (lathered in sunscreen) and relaxed to the salty sea air and sound of crashing waves.
We ended the day roasting hot dogs as the sun set. The best part, however, was just spending time with good friends.
Thanks for an amazing day John and Erin. We'll do it again in Kenya in April! I'll plan the next date. :)

California

My family west coast tour ended this week with "sisters week" in southern California. Bethany, Emily, and I enjoyed the sun, shopping, and girl talk. The most exciting part was seeing Emily's growing baby bump. Little Eli is due in November.

These pictures show what we spent our time doing. It was a really rough week! :)

Thank you Bethany and Emily for a great weekend. I love you very much, and I'll see you next summer (Eli too!).

Sold My Car!

I sold my car today! One more thing checked off my list. One more step closer to Kenya. And no more gas to pay for!

Idaho

In an attempt to see as many family and friends as possible before I move to Nairobi, I was in Idaho this week. I stayed with my grandpa for several days. We visited and went out to get chicken wings for Father's Day (Grandpa's choice). Here's Grandpa Grimes and me.
I also visited with my dear college roommate, Teddi Jo, and her growing family. We went on our annual shopping outing, took daily walks, and spent lots of time talking, talking, talking.
The best part of my visit with Teddi was meeting the newest Bledsoe. Colt is a cutie, and I thoroughly enjoyed seeing DR and Teddi being awesome parents. Colt spent his time bouncing, drooling, and smiling with me. It was strange to think that the next time I see him he'll be running all over the place. Who knows... He may have a little brother or sister by then!
Thank you Grandpa, DR, Teddi, and Colt for a great visit. We'll do it again next year!

Alaska

Before heading off to the bustling city of Nairobi, I'm taking time to enjoy my family. Last week was spent in Alaska where I went fishing with the moms, clam digging with Grandma and Grandpa, and loads of other fun with siblings, my niece and nephew, and old friends. I watched 11:30 pm sunsets and saw many moose, eagles, and halibut. Thank you, family, for making my time with you a blessing! I love you!

This slideshow of my visit to Alaska is dedicated to Marla. I know how much you want to be there babe. I thought of you lots. I'm praying your turn in AK comes soon!