Washington and a Coastie Update

So, we did it. We made the big move to Washington. I swear I have heard countless horror stories of how terrible government moves are, but we have moved three times, two of those being from one coast to the other, and have not had a single problem. I think the key is flexibility. You have to understand that it's not in your hands. It is in the government's, and things will get done at their pace, which is painfully slow and inefficient 99.9% of the time. Roll with the punches.
Anyway, we arrived here in Neah Bay on Sunday afternoon after attending church at our new ward in Forks. The house far exceeded our expectations! It is spotless, and has a great fenced in yard. And while it is a bit smaller than our place in Jersey, it is "fully loaded" with a beautiful kitchen, hardwood floors, and two big bedrooms. I am beyond thrilled.
We camped out with our suitcases and air mattress until our stuff arrived on Thursday and have been unpacking since. I have to say, putting your things in storage for five months is genius! All the things I hated before suddenly seem brand new! I had quite a bit of motivation to unpack in the days following the moving trucks arrival, but since I have totally lost steam. My fun new kitchen, our bed, and the TV are all set up, so I'm happy just baking and playing with Mason. Hopefully soon we can get rid of the boxes...
Anyway, Neah Bay is probably the most beautiful place I have ever seen. The town itself is a little sketchy. There isn't a single traffic light. Basically it consists of a small grocery store, two restaurants, a gas station, and the post office. A lot of the houses are run down and poorly kept. But the people are truly some of the nicest people I have ever met. The Coast Guard tries to be involved in the community and the locals really do appreciate the work to Coasties do here. It's really cool.
On Saturday we went for a hike to try and get to know our new area a little bit. We hiked to Cape Flattery, which is the most north western point in the US. It was only a mile, maybe just over, and it was the prettiest place I have ever seen. The hike was great because the trailhead is only 5 minutes away from our house, and most of it has this super cute little wooden walkway since all the rain here makes for tons of mud. Everything was so green and beautiful.
As far as a Coastie Update, Riley now works as a BM3, or Petty Officer 3rd class. Here, like in Jersey, he will be working from a station that is home to three boats. However, now he will be in charge of operating the boat, as well as supervising the entire crew. He will lead them in search and rescue cases, boardings to inspect for proper safety and illegal drugs or weapons, and other things of that nature. You know, Coast Guard stuff or whatever. :)
When we first got our orders, I was terrified. Neah Bay is extremely isolated. The closest real grocery store is just over an hour an a half away. Our ward is an hour. We are faaarrrr away from everything. But the people we are stationed here with are the nicest ever. They have gone out of there way to include us, and help us feel welcome and get to know the area. It's a little family out here in Neah Bay and we LOVE it.
Xoxo