Proud

 I just left the potlatch, which was emotional even for me, so I can't imagine how Josh must be feeling.  After we all ate, the elders spoke (in Yupik, and then someone translated the gist of it) and thanked the teachers for being there and for doing all they do.

 It felt good, as the wife of a teacher whose heart is in his classroom, to hear my husband and his devoted co-workers be thanked for their tireless effort in educating Marshall's youth.

 I am so proud of Josh.

I am proud that he moved here by himself in August,

and that when I left him at the airport so many months ago,

he had a smile on his face, and his excitement was palpable.

 I am proud that he got along so well with his roommate,

who became a very close friend;

and that he found a place among the staff here.

 I am proud that he endured the transition of us coming to join him

and am grateful that he has had nothing but positive things to say about us being here.

And lastly, I am proud that he survived his first year teaching.

That he was able {finally} to provide for our family the way he always imagined.

I love you babe.

You make me so proud.

Crazy proud.