Rain, rain go away!

So, this is what I woke up to this morning:



Maybe rain isn't so bad. Considering that in a couple of weeks, it will all turn to snow. It's already getting uncomfortably chilly up here in the big AK. I finally broke down and bought some warm boots yesterday. Think black Uggs with a slightly lower price tag. But, they were half off, and only $40.00. I needed some warm shoes in the worst way. All I have is slip on tennis shoes and sandals. Not too smart on the packing for Alaska, huh? I don't know how I forgot all my Chucks and Fluevogs. I think they got lost in the madness of trying to frantically pack to get to my father-in-law's funeral.

I had so much fun shopping yesterday. I am almost completely finished with Christmas shopping. I had to get out while I had the money, and before all of the crazy PFD shoppers are out next week. In case you don't know...PFD=Permanent Fund Dividend. In short, residents of Alaska get paid every year for just living here. And, this year, the checks are almost $1700 per person. Inevitably, once the checks go out, every store in town is packed with people just looking to blow all their windfall. And, the stores are inevitably completely picked over. So, Bryan's bonus came at the perfect time. Now, I don't have to go out and combat shop with all of the craziness.

I got some really cool stuffs for my nieces and nephew. Yes, I am THAT aunt. These kids are at the age that they can get the really COOL toys. Picture chemistry sets and messy art projects. But, my sister-in-law needn't worry...I tried to stay away from the messy stuff. I'd tell you what I got, but V reads this ocassionally, and I don't want to spoil Christmas for her.

I'm so proud. All I bought for myself was that pair of boots, and I set aside money for First Friday, sushi with Tina and a haircut. The rest of it was spent on Christmas, and stuffed in an account for my new car. Well, I did buy one thing for myself, but it was only $5:



Ever since I heard of it, I wanted to learn the Japanese craft of amigurumi. And, I thought I'd try my hand at these patterns. If I can actually do them, they will make some cute swap gifts! I'll keep you posted with my progress!

Well, Bryan takes his entrance exam for flight school tomorrow morning. Please send good vibes his way to pass. I'm insanely nervous for him. I'll be glad when the test is over, and we know if he got accepted to helicopter pilot school or not.