Enjoying the Journey!

What an AMAZING trip so far… and I haven’t even made it to my final destination yet!!

Our group had a blast yesterday, during our stop-over in Ottawa.  We did some sightseeing downtown; taking in Parliament Hill, the Rideau Canal and Ottawa Locks, as well as the beautiful Chateau Lauier.  This was my first time visiting the city and I absolutely loved it!

Today has been a whole new adventure… words can’t even describe it.  I made sure to get a window seat for our flight to Iqaluit this morning and I’m SO glad I did!  During the 3 hour flight, I was amazed at how drastically the landscape changed below me.  The trees started to disappear and the snow and ice took over.  There was nothing but a land of white “marshmallows” as far as I could see.   Then, as if out of nowhere, a cluster of buildings appeared and we landed in the “city” of Iqaluit. 

Stepping off the plane was confirmation that I was in a whole new world!  Haha... It was very cold, but sunny and beautiful!  The airport was tiny but bustling with people.  Then some of our group had to part ways.  We sent Mandy & Sarah off to Pond Inlet and Jennifer & I grabbed a cab to the hotel.  This was where I had my first touch of homesickness: when I realized that my cell phone had no service and the internet was down.  However, after a quick chat with my family on the hotel phone, I am feeling much better.  

Everyone we’ve met has been extremely friendly and welcoming!  We’re off to explore the area for the afternoon, then grab a bite to eat.  It will likely be an early night, as we are both exhausted and overwhelmed at this point!  I’m just so thankful for the opportunity to visit the area and really looking forward to meeting everyone in Kimmirut tomorrow! J