Nick adds to his Resume

Yes, my friends, Nick has now added "line judge" to his long and distinguished list of jobs, some of which include "fish guy" at Safeway, "personal trainer," "produce clerk," "fiberglass repairman," "automotive parts pro," and "lube and oil technician" (whatever that means). Volleyball season has started at the school, and thus, Nick's emerging career as a line judge is just getting started. Two teams flew in last week and they played volleyball until nearly 11:00 p.m.!! Stebbins played really well--and it was a blast to see all the people out to watch them play. (Although they may have just been out to see how long Nick's beard has grown).

Below is a rare shot of the line judge in action. Notice the confident way that his arms are thrown up, and the authority in which he makes the call. Sure, it is a time out--but practice makes perfect.

MORE FUN IN THE SNOW (AND SUN)!

For more fun in the snow, we decided to take a ride over to the hill above North Beach. That is where the true creative process began--Yes, it was SNOWMAN BUILDING time. The perfect packing snow combined with exhilerating exercise. Could it get better? Well, fortunately, the answer is yes. Look below to see the events unfold.

First you build it.......

Then you work as hard as possible to destroy it.......

The snow disappeared very quickly. The sun came out and there isn't a spot of ice anywhere. Ahh, well--there will be plenty of time for that :) Miss you all masses!

EXACTLY 32 DEGREES

Apparently, it usually snows before October here, and true to the word of just about anyone you talk to--hours before the clock struck midnight on September 30th, the first snow drops fell from the sky. It was gorgeous! Nick had to miss it because he was at a science conference in Fairbanks. However, a few of us decided to take a ride and look at the view from higher ground. Let's just say that I am happy that I put that cold weather gear order in! I woke up the next day, and it had been snowing ALL night. There was at least 8-10 inches on the ground. Nick was supposed to fly in from Fairbanks in the afternoon, but no planes were able to land in the morning due to poor visibility. Luckily, the sun came out and his flight was able to make it in. I had some snowballs waiting to greet him from the plane (which he very much appreciated). Then we took a ride. Below are some of the pictures from playing in the snow.

The town of Stebbins, covered in snow:
More gorgeous pictures of the sun on the snow. Thank goodness the ocean hasn't frozen yet...

Pseudo snowball fight. I fugured he owed me one for getting him right off the plane.

Nick, plotting his revenge. Can you see the wheels turning?