Thanksgiving

We had a surprise (though not entirely unexpected) early snowfall and lots of frost. The driving is nasty, but everything is so beautiful! Hearing geese calling each other I looked up and caught this breathtaking view of a flock soaring through the crisp blue skies.







I'm such a sucker for flowers! Roses in the snow. One of many small perks that exchange student coordinators occasionally get.





Yay for Thanksgiving, and lots of family, and lots of food! Like I need to stuff myself! I have the most wonderful family! 42 of us got together for dinner at the church -- where there was enough tables and room!





We enjoyed many games!










Not only was the snow beautiful, but fun too; sledding, and igloo building being the most favored activities.

Winter came early

I am so happy to have a warm home on cold nights full of people I love!




Two of my favorite people, making beautiful music together (at least to my ears!)




Auntie Julie's funny fluffy shoes!







Winter came early -- before the trees and flowers finished dropping their leaves. Roses look charming in the snow!













Only in America!!! I had meant to give my students an informative tour of the McNary Dam and Navigation Locks, and gave them, additionally, this interesting vignette of overcautious American life. (The ranger giving us the tour said it was to distinguish this can from cans that hold, say, safety helmets, or some other more specific item, but I don't know....)





Whole group of students together finally -- although our little car was stuffed with the addition of the host brother of one of them -- miss our van!!

Keepin' busy

Happy birthday to my dear husband. We finally gave up on the cake. Pudding, pizza, and family -- it just doesn't get any better!










A wind storm blew in a gorgeous sunset!







Enjoyed a mendhi party (aka henna) in celebration of Eid al Adha -- the time of Pilgrimage to Mecca, and celebrated by all Muslims even if they stayed home in honor of the almost sacrifice of Ishmael by Abraham.








Fall! crispy days, gorgeous leaves, a last blast before the quiet grey of winter.

















I enjoy sharing America with my exchange students!

New York

I had a surprising opportunity to visit New York for a few days, to provide moral support to Curry as she headed for her (hopefully) final interview with immigration for her green card.

It wasn't for very long, and my main purpose was to be there for Curry. But still, I saw a few sights. I learned that the Statue of Liberty is NOT on Ellis Island, though it is on Liberty Island which is quite close to Ellis Island. Again, I saw lots and lots of high rises, and too many people and enjoyed different neighborhoods and their foods.























In the end, it appears that Curry was denied her green card. That's so sad for this sweet girl who is a great addition to the citizenship of any country.

Recent photos

Little monsters!!!










On the way back from the SeaTac Airport (see next post), I stopped in Kubota Gardens. I'm a sucker for gardens! And these Japanese vistas are lovely.







Halloween Party hosted by one of my students' families. Watching the pumpkin carving is always fun! I took the opportunity to wear some of my international clothes.







Domestic Goddess I am not. But washing the dishes with Benny's help is a pleasure!











It is true that I gave birth to one of these young men, and am delighted my daughter married another, and Jared is always welcome, but I am not responsible for the strange things they do. Although, I did sew the Alien spaceman outfit....