Our new adventure- Jeff's arrival in Bethel

And so our life on the tundra began. As, I flew into Bethel the high winds (35mph) tossed the 737 around like a toy. The wing outside my window dipped so low I thought that it would smash against the ground. It was definitely the craziest and scariest landing I have ever been involved in. All those aboard from Bethel said that it was a routine landing, so I guess I will have to take their word for it.

We disembarked off a ramp outside.  As soon as I left the door of the aircraft, I got a taste of Bethel weather as the wind gusts blasted me in the face as if to say welcome to Alaska, you’re not in Oregon anymore! The sun was out in full force though so I took that as my welcome gift.

I was met at the airport by a fellow YKHC LPN. She is from Alabama as was evidenced by her southern hospitality. While she was giving me a tour around town and the hospital where I will work, I found out that the YKHC is a melting pot of Americans from the lower 48.  I was also greeted with smiles and words of welcome from both the staff of the YKHC and the people that I am honored to get the opportunity to care for.

My first visit to the grocer her in town was eye opening but not a shock. All my old vices are expensive up here. I guess that is God’s way of telling my it is time to be healthier and get away from the junk food that I ate way too much of anyways. Oh, and there is a Subway here but you won’t find a five dollar food long on the menu. You’re looking at a bargain deal eight dollar foot long!

My temporary and humble abode is true Alaska I was told.  Which, as it turns out, is pretty accurate. My décor consists of two large sets of moose antlers, horns from a ram, and paintings of Alaska wildlife too numerous to count.  It is comfortable though and has all the amenities one would want here on the tundra, thank goodness.

That about sums up my beginning of this new life adventure that I have embarked on.  I am counting down the days until my beautiful wife Laura joins me here in the tundra. Upon her arrival, this will then officially become my new home.