Happy New Year!

Happy New Year from Barrow, Alaska!

This is only a small portion of the fireworks! The fireworks lasted for an hour. The whole town came out to Simmonds Hill, which is where the July 4th Games are held. There was about 5 trucks full of fireworks parked on the beach. The trucks set their fireworks off and it was amazing. Fireworks were going off everywhere. 

And I finally got to see some aurora borealis! There was one line of it above the ocean before the fireworks started. I am so happy that I got to see them at the beginning of the New Year! 

It has been an amazing time living in Barrow! 

I do have to say something about the weather. Tonight was the first time that I did not wear proper clothing. We sat in the truck for most of the fireworks, but we got out several times. I made sure that the girls were bundled up nice and warm. I did not bring my balacava. Think of it as a ski mask. I got out of the truck and stayed too long in the wind. I was very cold and nervous about it. My body was warm, but my nose hurt. The moment it hurt, I went back to the truck. I took my gloves off and put them on my cheeks. Abi took her gloves off in the truck and put them on my nose. We both put warm breath on the area. My nose quickly warmed up and there are no signs of frost bite. It was scary but it was a stupid mistake on my part. Mistakes like this can kill you up here. I've learned my lesson and will fully gear up next time. 

And this is how cold it was during the fireworks. I have lots photos and videos, but they are on Emily's phone. I'll post them eventually. Sorry! 

Have a Happy New Year!