Never a dull moment in the village. Today the construction workers that were digging ditches to lay new wires hit the water pipe... This means that half of the village has no water. Thank goodness I took a shower this morning. I am in that part of the village has none. This means everything is coming from the 5 gallon bottles. Going to the bathroom means.. no flushing. We are hoping that is back and running tomorrow!
I have learned quickly that some of the cultural or Alaskan ways that we are not accustom to are:
---Practically everyone drives an ATV ....Yes, even the kindergartners have ones that smaller. Never thought you would hear the Kindergarten teacher say, "Everyone have a great evening and drive safely!"
---It is normal for kids to stay up late because the sun is out... this is a great idea when it is summer... not so great when they have to get up early and come to school. We have a ton of sleepy kids.
---When you go shopping, most people's concern is how is it going to fit in my car... Alaskan people are concerned with how much is this going to cost me to get it home? Will it be ok on a plane or do I have to put it on the barge?
---When it comes to fruits and vegetables, I have been beyond blessed to have them readily available living in California. That is not so much the case here in Alaska. What I wouldn't give to go through a salad bar right now... or have a huge salad!
---In most states if you live in the outskirts, you can (typically) jump in your car and make it to the big city without an issue. Here in Alaska if you live in the outskirts, or a village, you have to hope and pray that flying weather is good enough to get picked up and hope that it isn't too bumpy of a ride and that you can make it back... Schedules and ability to shop, do business, or travel depend on if you can fly or not. This blows my mind.
Something I am learning: Everyday life that I am use to is much different here. I am getting use to the norms here in Alaska more and more everyday!
Everyone still buckled in?? On to the next adventure.
These pictures were taken from right outside my room. Looking out over the beach.
