A move out west and a semester abroad.

This summer was certainly a memorable one. It started out strong by visiting Chicago and Atlanta and attending a three-day outdoor concert. The most exciting thing this summer has been my move to Bellingham, Washington. My parents both got jobs at Western Washington University, and I decided to help my mom move out early. The drive from Mt. Pleasant, MI (where I've lived the last 9 years of my life) to Washington was long but full of adventures. The highlights include The Badlands and the World's Only Corn Palace in South Dakota, Yellowstone in Wyoming, and white water rafting in Montana. Also, our car only broke down once--fortunately, Montanans are fantastic mechanics.

Since arriving in Bellingham (which is located on the Pacific Ocean, about an hour north of Seattle and an hour south of Vancouver), it has been non-stop fun. There are numerous trails in the area, including one that goes along the coast and up to the top of a mountain. My favorite is one that encircles a gorgeous lake---within walking distance of my house. I have also enjoyed visiting Seattle and Canada, but the most exciting thing I have done this summer has been getting my SCUBA certification. The waters are cold here, but they are also twice as beautiful. I see sea stars, crabs, fish, anemones, and even octopus!

Right now I'm getting ready to study away in Mexico for the semester. There, I will be in a marine conservation program--I will be studying the sea turtle population and talking with the local fishermen. It is Biology program, but there is, of course, an emphasis on Spanish. I'm very excited, although also slightly nervous because I don't know what to expect! The other students seem very nice, and it seems like it will be pretty relaxed. Then, I get to continue my Spanish and Biology studies in Costa Rica for the spring semester. For that program, I will be spending most of my time in the rain forest. I hope to catch a glimpse of Tarzan.

I wish you all the best of luck with your season! I will try to make a trip to OC during winter term.

Go Yeowomen!

Katie