Christmas 2015: At Home with the Harringtons

Following a lovely brunch the morning of Christmas Eve at sweet little Abode 212, Mike and Melissa began the task of loading up the Subaru with gifts, pajamas, a few sweet treats and eventually themselves and their mutt. With Worland only an hour away, Christmas with the Harrington's is an easy, quick trip. Mike and Melissa arrived on Bluebell Lane just in time to crack open some beers and mingle with family members in preparation for a full series of Christmas Eve traditions.

Yearly, the Harrington's Christmas Eve table is set with a Seafood Casserole (prepped just as Grandma Carolynn had done for years) and, depending on who's cooking and who's coming, a pot of Oyster Stew can be found on the stovetop. Bread, veggies, fruit salad and desserts round out the meal which always preludes the Christmas Eve Service at the United Methodist Church. Filled with the once-a-year meal, steeped in tradition and holiday memories a plenty, the Harrington family makes their Christmas Eve trek to the United Methodist Church for the lighting of advent candles, gospel readngs and the infamous candle-lit singing of Silent Night.

Following this series of advent and Christmas-Eve traditions, expectations and joys, Mike and Melissa along with siblings, in-laws and parents return to Bluebell Lane for the making of much merriment and joy. Traditionally, the crew returns home, begrudgingly yet willingly agrees to take a family photo, knowing that they'll be in no hurry to dress in the morning to. take the beloved photo prior to the Christmas meal the following day. Thus, Christmas 2015 was no different, following the service, family members agreed that although they'd love to be wearing their pajamas, they'd rather take the family photo right away rather than attempting to wake up and get ready early enough to take the photo Christmas morning. So the crew piled around the tree, grabbed their pups and smiled long enough to capture a couple of photos before throwing on the pajamas and hunkering down for some gift unwrapping.

Being an all adult and dog Christmas experience, the unveiling of gifts took on a leisurely pace as each person opened one gift with all eyes on them awaiting joyful expressions, laughter and heartfelt thanks. While the Harrington clan is not all too eager to spend thousands and encourage the commercialization of the holiday, they are eager to give useful, thoughtful, fun gifts. One particular highlight included a smattering of outdoor backpacking themed gifts (including a pack for the brother-in-law who has yet to experience a good ol' Harrington backpacking trip) which promise to be used in the summer of 2016 for a family excursion into the wild. With the giving of gifts and the planning of excursions going late into the night, the crew soon found themselves brushing their teeth and making their way to bed.

As has been a Tom Harrington family tradition for ages, Christmas morning was not just a time for stockings but more notably the sharing of eggs, sausage and Grandma Carolyn's Apricot Coffee Cake with a beloved family friend; Heidi. Heidi is a sweet friend of the Harrington's who yearly makes Christmas breakfast with the Harrington's a priority. She arrives on time, every time. She excuses the fact that most of the Harrington's are still in their pajamas and have yet to finish their first cups of coffee. She says hello to all who are joining her, including the dogs. She gracefully allows the Harrington (and Dawson) men to carry or wheel her and her wheelchair into the basement family room. She politely accepts the meal, a glass of juice and a variety of gifts from the Harrington clan. She kindly offers a gift for the Harrington's, typically addressed to Patty, yet meaningful for the family as a whole. Heidi's experience of the holiday is a bit different than the full set of seasonal traditions as experienced by the Harrington's and most Americans. Yet, each and every Christmas morning Heidi reminds us all that love is the central element to the holidays and a life being well lived.

Following the breakfast tradition that ties family to generations past through food and the character of loving others as though they are family, the day continued by hitting the road toward Cody. Mike and Melissa had a quick stop over in Burlington to frost a few dozen mini eggnog cupcakes and grab some beer before heading on to John and Susan's for the family meal. Upon arrival on Sunshine Lane, the guests and hosts alike enjoyed festive cocktails, cold beers and all the most tasty appetizers while the scent of prime rib filled the air. The big meal was followed by take-away bingo, a family tradition that yields many guests walking away with something another deemed ridiculous, BUT everyone leaves with a gift and lots of laughter fresh from their bellies.

Wanting to soak up as much time as possible with parents, sisters and brother-in-law, Mike and Melissa returned to Worland for a night of games and snacking, opting to wake-up early in the morning in order to get the ovens on and a weekend's worth of work in at The Burlington Place before heading on to their next family engagements in Sturgis, South Dakota.

Wherever and whenever the holidays are celebrated, Mike and Melissa find themselves filled with immense gratitude and contentness at having been given these people to celebrate with and these traditions to carry out year, after year.

 

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Work Perks: Hitting the Slopes of Sleeping Giant

Since graduating college with a double major in both International Studies and Spanish, Melissa has found herself with at least one foot in the world of education. Stateside, she's served as a paraprofessional in three different schools and while living in South Korea she served as resident Native English Speaker in three different Korean Elementary schools. These positions have all held their various perks and moments of pure joy, always revolving around the students and gaining added favor with a variety of "work perks".

 

This past Monday, January 25th, Melissa and Mike both enjoyed the perks of being connected to Burlington Schools AND of owning their own business complete with a respectful clientele that understands M&M need/deserve the occassional break. So it was, the couple, along wtih middle school and high school staff and students found themselves enjoying a day of skiing, snowboarding and outdoor enjoyment at Sleeping Giant Ski Areat just outside of Yellowstone National Park. This, all in thanks to a school that values offering students opportunities outside of textbooks and tests AND a small community that's will to chip in and ensure the day is available not only to students but to community members at large.

The day saw Mike Harrington busting out his snowboard after about an 8 year hiatus. As should be expected from the man- the myth- the legend, he took to his snowboard as if it'd only been on hiatus for 8 months. After a quick reacquaintance with his board, he was shredding his way down the mountain, impressing numerous students who were convinced his skill set was fairly well limited to pizza-builder extraordinaire. By the close of the day, Mike had made just over 20 runs, for a total of 73 minutes, 12 miles and a top speed of 36 mph - feats he deemed were just a bit more exciting, active and enjoyable than lounging around at The Burlington Place building the weekly trivia.

Melissa opted to don a pair of skis for the first time since middle school, remembering how miserable she felt after her first and only time snowboarding about 10 years ago as a college student. She sat in on student lessons, learned a few things that made skiing a bit more pleasant than it was 17 years ago, pizza-wedged her way down the bunny slope, made it up the chair lift with her hubs once and then mostly enjoyed lounging around, drinking a bit of coffee and taking in the lovely winter scenery. She also had the added joy of running into Mike's aunt and uncle Cowger who were touring with a friend of theirs who was visiting from Maine - talk about the joys of Wyoming being one expansive small town!

Students and other teachers all enjoyed the day similarly to fit their own personal interests. Many students conquered the mountain on skis and snowboards, whereas a slew of 6th grade and middle school students received lessons and tried their hand (and legs, minds, muscles, core, etc) at winters pleasurable sports for the first time ever. A handful of students made their way down a few sledding runs while still others enjoyed games of Apples to Apples, Connect Four, coloring and chatting in the ski lodge. Overall, Monday, January 25th was among a special handful of Mondays that does not impart a case-of-the-Mondays to the workers and attendess of Burlington Schools.

As an additional perk to getting out and closing up shop, the duo made plans to enjoy dinner with a couple teacher friends and their spouses at Pat O'hara Brewing in Cody, Wyoming before returning home to soak in the hot-tub and rejoice at having experienced a bonus day off without having to travel far and wide for a holiday or wedding.

Somedays, work feels like just another day of engaging in the same ol' daily grind with a few small joys but nothing necessarily brag-worthy...somedays however, you can really get your brag and love that you are in a position to enjoy some fairly major "work perks".

Cheers to you and yours and here's to hoping you have some work perks to look forward to!

 

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Will Trade: Pizza for Donuts

 

Since thier first fall here in Burlington, Melissa has heard rumors of mythical, magical donuts prepared by a particular, deep-rooted, Burlington family. These home-made, legendary, donuts are most commonly available on All Hallows Eve. However, for the Harrington's, being well over trick-or-treating age, without any children in their care AND having to manage a bar...there have been few opportunities to seek out these highly acclaimed morsels.

This year, the third Halloween of Mike and Melissa being present in Burlington passed with only a small teaser. Melissa begged and pleaded with numerous high school students who had stopped at The Burlington Place for their fill of candy, and eventually the Harrington's were recipients to one (only ONE!) of these sweet treats.

However, the youngest son of the ever-famed donut making family, assured Melissa at school the following week, that these home-made donuts should only be eaten fresh. This particular conversation lead to Melissa striking a deal that the next event which warranted the preparation of donuts, would be the ideal time to hold some fresh donuts aside and deliver promptly to The Burlingotn Place.

So it was, on the evening of Friday, November 13th, a caller rang into The Burlington Place, asked for Mrs. Harrington and claimed to have some fresh donuts available. Payment required? A simple, one topping pizza. Could it be done? You bet your sweet tooth!

Therefore, prior to some kind of crazy, unpredictable pizza rush on Friday the 13th, Mike and Melissa each devoured 3.5 home-made donuts, just the right amount to see them another TBP Friday night. This moment in history also marks a true coming-of-location, the creation of a root, the deepening of belonging, the truth of feeling as if one is truly a member of a long-standing community.

Cheers to donuts that give you roots!

 

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Spring Break 2013: A Lesson in Bourbon

 

While nearly 3 years has passed since touring the Wyoming Whiskey distillery in Kirby, Wyoming; some details remain clear: The crisp, Wyoming, spring air. The dull-glow of copper kettles. The bready-lively smell of the fermentation process. The intimacy of touring a facility as a group of four; long before the onset of tourist season. The balanced scent of oak barrels working their slow-sweet magic on Wyoming's first "legal" whiskey.

The tour and the facilities were truly an extraordinary and impressive experience. For Mike and Melissa, the tour was a perfect fit for their "Burlington-bar-purchase-focused-spring-break". Spring Break 2013 was the week in which Mike and Melissa took their finalized business plan to it's full fruition, looked over a ton of loan papers and made some kind of sense of what it would soon mean to own a small-town, Wyoming bar. Little did they know just how much Wyoming Whiskey would become an aspect of their liqour serving lives, the conversations that would rotate around this product which was so highly anticipated around the entire state.

Unfortunately, it has been painfully clear that Wyoming Whiskey has not won over the hearts of the people for whom Wyoming is home. Released before having had adequate time in a barrel, most Wyomingites first impression was that of paying too much for something too forceful and "green". Owning and more importantly, working a bar, the Harrington's have engaged in numerous conversations regarding this well labeled, poorly executed product. However, they've also had opportunites to try more recent batches and meet with members of the Wyoming Whiskey team - these have resulted in more positive experiences - a better tasting Whiskey (more time in a quality barrel is all it takes!) and down-to-earth sales reps that understand the value of ALL Wyoming beer, wine and liqour establishments.

Taking time to reflect back on this tour has provided a moment of grateful appreciation for the way the world works and the way things always come full circle, even the smallest of things.

 

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Dreaming about Burlington: The Harrington's Next Big Thing

It all started mid-November. With a phone call:
A proclamation. A bar for sale. In the Big Horn Basin. Fair price. Just thought you'd like to know.

Google and Mike's own knowledge of the basin soon revealed that Burlington was a town of 300 people, primarily LDS (Latter-Day Saints/Mormon). But owning a bar. Could be worth it.

Mike and Melissa mulled it over, without too much direction. However things progressed and continue to do so, and here is the timeline of important events:

Mid-November 2012: The fateful call from Tom Harrington making the couple aware of the possibility.

Thanksgiving 2012: Offhanded remark to Harland and Brenda that the couple was considering, to some degree this new opportunity but really had no idea. Followed by enthusiasm and support from the Allen's claiming the success of others who had taken on similar opportunities and suggesting pizza as the food to be lovingly prepared and served. 

December 2nd, 2012: A trip to Burlington, Wyoming to enter and view the Burlington Bar, to begin thinking through the true potential and desire. To view Burlington as a potential home, a place to settle and a place to pursue a dream.

December 2012: Research and dreaming. Thinking and talking. Discovering and learning.

December 27th, 2012: The preparation of a proposal to purchase the Burlington Bar in 90 days, after receiving financing.

December 28th, 2012: Offer accepted.

January 2013: Planning and developing. Working on a business plan. Acquiring LLC (limited liability corporation) status. Mastering pizza, dreaming up recipes and names. Requesting help from friends and their expertise of graphic design.

Early February 2013: Polish the business plan, begin conversations with loan officer, health inspector, town of Burlington employees, etc.

Eve of February 19, 2013: Submit business plan to loan representative, wait with fingers-crossed.

Month of March 2013: Waiting. Praying. Pizza-making. Home-brewing. Emails with loan officers, parents, insurance agents, realtors, etc.

Spring Break 2013: Inventory products left at the bar, show it off to friends and family, create bank accounts, choose paint colors, start opening up about future plans.

March 22, 2013: Close on the bar. Keys and business in hand.

Riggs Family Weekend: Basketball and Sledding

While stopping off at Shadow's Pub and Grill was indeed enjoyable, the primary purpose of making their way over the hill was in fact to spend quality time with the Rigg clan - at least the Cheyenne, Loveland, Erie cousins (and their offspring as well as mom/aunt/grandma) part of the clan. This group of Riggs (which is the maiden name of Mike's mother, for any curious readers), met in Cheyenne to watch some little tyke basketball featuring a little Rigg followed by a High School basketball game being reffed by a slightly older, taller Rigg.

Basketball games aside, the weekend continued with eating, drinking, playing games, chatting and more basketball (Cowboys vs. Air Force). In the course of the first day, multiple games and levels of basketball were watched, rounds of beer, glasses of wine and slices of pizza were consumed - overall, a very fantastic way to spend a Saturday.

The following day, the crew reconvened and met up at Happy Jack for some sledding and of course more eating and drinking. It was, after all, a family gathering. The combination of beautiful weather, a Coleman grill to heat up delicious Elk Chili and a most loving and enjoyable group of people, the day was nothing but pleasant.

Consistently, these moments of being with lovely friends and/or family have been the moments that the Harrington duo relishes and rejoices in. Were it not for having such a lovely bunch of comrades to have returned to the transition from Korea to the USA would have been that much more difficult. However, being as it is, lovely family and lovely places have played a strong role in getting the couple to a point where they are stating to once again, feel at ease in America the Beautiful.

Brewery Tour: Shadow's Pub and Grill of Cheyenne, Wyoming

Whenever the Harrington duo finds themselves heading out in any direction which may provide a micro-brewery pit stop, you can be sure the couple will stop in for a sampler at the least. (Two years in the land of watered-down-$&!@-beer will do that do a being).

Anyway, en route to a family weekend in Cheyenne, the couple, plus sister Katie, opted to stop in at one of Cheyenne's breweries to sample the fare and get a taste for what the state of Wyoming currently has on tap. Shadow's Pub and Grill of Cheyenne, Wyoming has been a host to a micro-brewery, a non-host and again a host. The Pub and Grill, which is housed in the old Train Depot, was also host to various guests of the Harrington Wedding Reception seeing as how the couple enjoyed their first dance as Man and Woman in the neighboring reception hall, also located at the Train Depot.

Alas, the beer. Within the sampler, the Harringtons enjoyed sipping on: Big Boy Amber, Big D's Pale Ale, Crow Creek Ale, possible Boxcar Stout (or another Stout) and another which currently cannot be remembered. True to form, Melissa was all about the dark beers and gladly waited for the other two sippers to take their taste and leave the rest for her to finish off. Both the Big Boy and Big D's sat well with the other two Harringtons and before long the sampler was finished and the trio was making their way to a youth basketball game and weekend filled with family fun and adventures!

Brewery Tour: Clear Creek Brewing of Buffalo Wyoming

It should go without saying that the Harringtons loved food and traveling in South Korea. Yet, as we recently stated here at THT, the couple is thrilled to be back in a land where going out to dinner sometimes includes incredible BBQ and Bread Pudding. Additionally, the amount of joy the couple has experienced in being able to track down fine craft beers...that joy is also quite immense.

Following their holiday celebrations in Worland, the couple hit the road and made their way through Ten Sleep Canyon en route to Deadwood, South Dakota where the next leg of their holiday celebrations would take place. However, having a desire to re-enter the world of craft brews and perhaps gain some insight to the business potential of such an operation, the couple was eager to get through the canyon and stop off at Wyoming's newest brewery, opened in September of 2012, Clear Creek Brewing Company in Buffalo, Wyoming.

Fine Dining in Laramie: Boomer's BBQ

While the Harringtons enjoyed (and now dearly miss) dining in Daejeon, there are more than a few fine dining establishments in Laramie, Wyoming and, honestly in the USA in general. Among the highlights of returning to the states, eating is one of them with drinking fine beer being another.

A few months back, the man won everything! Football tickets (twice!), Dracula tickets and coupons for Boomer's BBQ, a restaurant which was not in Laramie the last time the Harringtons called the town home.

Excited to go out for dinner and a drink, the Harringtons set out with their coupons on a chilly night, as they all are from October to May in Laramie, and sat down for a meal which would wow them!

Since the coupons promised a free sandwich and side, the Harringtons were bold and glutinous in their ordering: Wind River Brewery Pale Ales to drink, Artichoke Dip to begin the meal, a Pulled Pork Sandwich each, one with Potato Salad and one with Baked Beans. Sandwiches come, as Boomer's describes them, Naked. Diners are then given a 6-pack of in-house prepared BBQ sauce which includes nothing but deliciousness in the form of: Original, Bourbon, Habanero Heat, Alabama White, South Carolina Mustard and Carolina Vinegar.

Following a pulled pork sandwich, that throughout the meal served to host to all six sauces, the Harringtons decided it was absolutely necessary to try the Bread Pudding which features a home-made Koltiska sauce (Koltiska being a Wyoming-made liqueur) which was truly out of the world and continues to have Melissa ending the day with a strong and insatiable desire to down another plate (or pan) full of the perfect end to a meal.

So, should you come through Laramie or find yourself living here as some folks do, you should make it a habit to stop in Boomer's BBQ and enjoy a meal that is simple, yet out-of-this world!

Our "First" Second-time Around 519 Guest: Harris

Just a few days after their 5-year wedding anniversary and barely a week after having returned to the USA, the Harringtons were thrilled to welcome their first guest into 519. Even more thrilling was that this guest was in fact a good-friend-turned-family-who-also-just-returned-from-the-land-of-kimchi...which means, the couple was able to wade through re-entry/reverse culture shock with someone who was on the exact same page. It was an incredible blessing to share the homeland, aka, the Kingdom, with this dear friend and to know that the bonds and friendships created half a world away were not created in vain.

The visit began with dinner out at the Library followed by a couple of growlers following the crew home for a rowdy game of Nerts with a Harrington sister before settling in for a night of rest and deep sleep. Since the Harrington duo was already employed, they made their way to work each morning while guest, Harris took his time walking, exploring, getting lost and reconnecting to sweet Lady Annyeong.

Wanting Harris to understand the fullness and beauty of Wyoming life, the Harringtons were sure to escort their east-coast friend out to the Snowies where the crew enjoyed some hiking and gallivanting below the majestic and looming Medicine Bow Peak. Alone on the trail, the crew took in the fall colors, cool-to-frigid breeze and the unadulterated beauty of the Mountain West.

Upon Arrival: Burgers, Driving and Getting to Work

Twelve hours in air on one of the world's top airlines did little to ease the ache in the Harringtons hearts. However, disembarking the aircraft to be reunited with their pup, who easily made it through customs as well as a sister and within an hour or so good friends from their first Korean year did help to bring peace and joy to this time of transition.

More traumatized than the human sort, Lady Annyeong was not too thrilled that she was required to stay in her kennel while the Harrington duo chatted it up with immigration officials stating that: Yes, indeed, the furry creature within the crate had been properly vaccinated. Yes, you may see her papers. Yes, we do in fact have some food for her. Two days worth to be exact. Do you care to see her or the food? Oh...no, well, okay. Thanks.

And just like that, the Harringtons exited customs to find Katie and Ashlee awaiting them. Lady Annyeong was quickly set free from her imprisonment and allowed to run and experience a new land for the first time, unfortunately for her the new 'land' was the parking lot of LAX. Fortunately, better exploration lay ahead for the sweet three-legged mutt.

From the airport, the crew made their way to Ashlee's house where Katie gathered her belongings and said her own farewell. Shortly thereafter, the Harrington trio and Lady Annyeong made their way to Kolt and Holly's place where they would spend their first American day in more than a year. The Harrington duo found comfort in knowing that just a year ago, Kolt and Holly had said fare-thee-well to the land of kimchi and remained connected to that time and place much as the Harringtons knew they always would be.

Five Years Ago: Rehearsal's and Vows

Five years ago, the Harrington's woke up on the morning of September 7th after having enjoyed and rehearsed the 'Big Day' the night before.

Throughout the summer of 2007, the couple spent a bit of time planning, addressing and anticipating the 'Big Day' as much as was possible in between guiding campers on hikes, mountain bike rides, horse-back rides, challenge course activities and numerous other outdoor wilderness camp activities which took place at HR Camp where Mike and Melissa successfully worked together two summers in a row.

So, when the evening of September 6th finally rolled around, the couple was overjoyed to be surrounded by friends and family and to walk through the motions of the following day. However, better than rehearsing the wedding was gathering at the home of Mike's godparents/aunt and uncle, Rick and Cassie's home in Cheyenne, WY to enjoy pulled pork and all the fixins' in the company of cherished friends and impressive couples exemplifying successful and loving marriages. As the meal came to an end, the couple split ways and went with their respective wedding party to enjoy unwrapping lingerie, pedicures, riding buffalo statues in skivvies and throwing back a brew or two (we'll let you guess which 'M' took part in each of the aforementioned activities).

The following morning brought with it an indescribable anticipation as the couple worked to prepare the reception hall (or, have their wedding party prepare the reception hall and run other errands) and eventually entered the hours of preparing themselves physically, emotionally and mentally for the milestone which was quickly closing in on them.

In atypical bride fashion, Melissa was shocked to finally realize that her $50 Patagonia dress didn't fit perfectly and could use a few stitches to adjust the shoulder straps. Fortunately, bridesmaids Mindy and Luella were ready and willing to tackle the problem and within minutes Melissa was slipping into a dress she still wears to this day. Dressed and made-up the wedding party and attendees began making their way out on Happy Jack Road where the Harrington's had received permission from the National Forest Service to gather and wed on the eve of September 7th among the aspen and boulders and under a blue sky just before dusk.

A few pre-wedding photos, prayers and deep breaths later the mothers had been seated, the wedding party had made their way down the aisle, barefoot and simply dressed and a single guitar plucked out 'Be Thou My Vision'. With every one in their places, it was time for the bride to make her entrance, escorted by her father and eyes fixed on the one she would commit her life to in a matter of moments.

The ceremony progressed with the groom's father officiating the ceremony and the bride's father performing 'God Bless the Broken Road' by Rascall Flatts and the couple exchanging vows, rings and their first kiss all within a thirty minute window.

Officially a man and his wife, the couple remained at Happy Jack to capture some moments before heading toward the Cheyenne Train Depot where they would enjoy a rockin' good time with music, eats, more friends, brews and a ridiculously decorated car which would hall them to Estes Park for a week-long honeymoon in the Rocky Mountains.

And today, the Harrington's reflect on what living this life together has looked like during the past 5 years and enter the coming years of marriage with eagerness and confidence, hopeful for even more joy, love, adventures and shared dreams coming to fruition.

Vacation at Home: Laramie, WY and Denver, CO August 18-22

The Harrington's final days in the US were spent primarily in Laramie soaking up memories and good-eats with the Harrington sisters and ton of friends. Upon arriving from Sturgis, SD the couple were thrilled to enter 519 and find the dearly beloved Herrboldt's, Blomberg's and Steinkens. Friday brought with it a necessity to tackle some errands such as fingerprints and the receiving a new title in hopes that Navajo Durango (the Subaru) can find new owners in Colorado. The highlight of the day however was heading on over to the Cooley's place for their infamous Fish Tacos and even more infamous company enjoyed alongside the Herrboldt's and topped off with a glass of Red Ass Rhubarb wine out of South Dakota.

Saturday brought a slow, easy start and was quickly highlighted by an event where the Harrington's were honored to see a number of dearly beloved friends from their time in Laramie. No photos were taken, but images of dearly beloved friends gathered within the walls of 519 chatting and living life fill the hearts and memories of the Harrington's. Among these images, a few stand out, in particular one which involved a can of unsuspecting silkworm chrysalis and a crew of equally unsuspecting tongues which took on the challenge and passed with flying colors! (However, only one friend, who will remain unnamed [yeah right], enjoyed them enough to consider creating a silkworm stirfry -- oh Lisa ^.^).

The weekend carried on with a number of oppurtunities to catch up with their Laramie community when the Harrington's made their way to Emmaus Road Community church. Following the service, the couple went downtown to enjoy lunch at Coal Creek Coffee Co. with the Harrington sisters and for Melissa to meet up with the talented and enjoyable Becca Skinner before loading up the Herrboldt's Subaru and heading down to Ft. Collins.

Saying their final farewell to Laramie and ultimately Wyoming, the Harrington's were soon in Ft. Collins sitting down to enjoy a delicious Ethiopian meal with the Herrboldt's, Atwood's, Luella and Ryan. As was common at this juncture of their vacation the couple then said a tearful good-bye to the Herrboldt's before heading over to the Atwood's place for a roaring good time and game of Redneck Life (highly recommened and a desired item by the Man Harrington -- hint, hint to gift givers to the Harrington's ;)).

Monday, August 22 was the Harrington's final day in the United States and was filled with little more than eating, lounging, grocery shopping, re-packing and more eating. Fortunately, Melissa's sister Luella is no stranger to the kitchen and the boyfriend Ryan is no stranger to the grill, so it was, the last meal the Harrington's enjoyed in the US was: steak, mashed potatoes, fried okra and cheese stuffed, bacon-wrapped figs - you ought to be jealous.

With one last set of tears the Harrington's bid farewell to family, wide-open spaces, clear air, poor job oppurtunities, obesity and the whole gamut of America and headed to the land of Kimchi where they are joyfully residing for at least one more year.

Vacation at Home: Ten Sleep, WY August 14

Prior to dating, Mike and Melissa with the majority of HR Camp Summer Staff of 2006, made their way to infamous Nowoodstock Bluegrass Festival of Ten Sleep, WY. Mike and his family were well familiar with the event at the time, but little did anyone foresee that this moment would set a pattern for years to come that would be shared with many but rarely lacking Mike and Melissa. From 2006 – 2009, the couple faithfully made the trek to Ten Sleep where they crashed at the Harrington family cabin when there were no longer performances to enjoy. In 2010 the couple was unable to attend as their World Tour led them to San Francisco in preparation for teaching in South Korea. So, in 2011, when it became clear that a return to Nowoodstock was possible and not only would Jalan Crossland be performing, but additionally Dan Walker, the couple did all they could to once again enjoy this summertime tradition. So with good company, chilled beers, Indian tacos, cool grass and warm sunshine; the couple settled in for an afternoon of delightful sounds and memories, before crashing at the beloved Ten Sleep cabin.

Vacation at Home: Laramie and Rawlins, WY August 8-11 (Melissa)

While Mike tromped through the Big Horn Mountains, Melissa took care of some important business (shopping, homework and maintaining friendships) in the Laramie area. Monday was highlighted by a morning at Turtle Rock coffee shop drinking a London Fog and chomping down a white chocolate and raspberry scone while attacking a bit of the MAED. The continued in a peaceful fashion, walking downtown to receive fresh veggies, enjoyed grilled antelope a good beer and even better conversation with SaraJane and Mark underneath the wide open skies of Wyoming.

Tuesday morning came quickly and was fortunately began with a Thai coffee in hand while riding shotgun with yet another dear friend Stephanie. With Nash buckled in the back, Melissa and Stephanie made their way to Rawlins, WY to see expectant mother and beloved friend, Cailin. Conversation between all three women flowed easily and naturally. The day made room for a perfect deli sandwich, sunny play date at the park and warm hugs. Upon returning to Laramie, Melissa was overjoyed to see the entire Herrboldt family enjoying dinner with the Coulter family and her joy continued when all warmly welcomed her to the dinner table.

Wednesday was a major day of errand running: from NU2U for thrift finds, to the Herb House for spices and Safeway for dried beans and barley. Wednesday ended with a sweet dinner date near the train tracks with the beloved SaraJane. Dinner was take-out from Anong’s Thai which featured chicken pad Thai, Thai tea and coconut cake, quite possibly the best meal one could enjoy on a Wednesday summer evening.

Thursday morning brought a failed attempt at accomplishing work on her master’s and a long trek solo to Worland, WY but resulted in the reunion of man and wife, wife and in-laws and the sharing of stories, all worth the wait and hours in a car.

Vacation at Home: Big Horn Mountains August 8 - 11 (Mike)

After the weekend with his in-laws, Mike made his way to his family home in Worland, WY for one night before making his way into the wilderness. With his father, sisters and a local pastor, Mike packed into the Big Horn Mountains. For four days he and his family enjoyed glorious sunrises and sunsets, stunning mountain views, fly-fishing, catching the elusive golden trout, cold rains and nights and most importantly one another’s company.

And if the above photos don't convince you why the Harrington's are head-over-heels in love with Wyoming, perhaps nothing will.

Vacation at Home: Cheyenne and Torrington, WY August 6-7

With a slight amount of pressure and eyelash batting, Melissa convinced Mike that the morning of the sixth should begin at Ross for an opportunity at cheap, new clothes. Like a trooper, Mike agreed and the couple stocked up on shorts, dresses and other clothing items they decided were necessary. From Ross the two made their way to Melissa’s Aunt Kim’s home where she was being gifted roll after roll of toilet paper in honor of South Korea. The family (Mike, Melissa, Brenda, Harland, Luella, Ryan, Kathleen, Dennis, Larry, Linda, Jameson, Rob, Kim and Macradee) would enjoy chatting, drinking, eating and the appearance of two ‘famous’ Rodeo Clowns.

Following an enjoyable afternoon with the whole family the Harland and Brenda Allen family made their way to Torrington to reconnect with Papa and Grandma (Dennis and Kathleen) for pizza and a rolling good game of ‘What if?’

                                                 

Perhaps the highlight of the weekend trip was returning to grandma and papa’s home for a healthy dose of biscuits and gravy, one of Melissa’s deepest cravings since living in the land of kimchi. Filled to the brim and having enjoyed continued conversation with the grandparents, the Harland and Brenda family eventually made their way down the highway to return to Laramie for a separation of paths.

Vacation at Home: Laramie, WY August 4-5

Back from Wheatland and a day with the sisters, Melissa and Mike reunited at 519 Clark to enjoy Laramie life as they always knew it. Entertained by Mihretu and offered deep conversation and joyful laughter by SaraJane the couple and good friend Mark settled in for a couple hours of remembering the ‘good ole’ days’. Aside from reminiscing, Mike set Mihretu and Mark to work on his mop-top and was relieved to finally have a cut that will keep him for overheating in the hot, humid days currently rampant in South Korea.

The night of the fourth was ushered in by a game of volleyball at Undine Park for Mark, Mike and the Harrington sisters while SaraJane, Mihretu and Melissa prepared some pizzas to deliver. With pizza in hand, the girls and Mihretu made their way to Undine just to discover volleyball was over and only two hungry bellies remained, fortunately the bellies of Mark and Mike are content with eating and they met the challenge joyfully. The night continued forth with walks in the rain, un-upholstering an ottoman, drinking some brews at the Library, 519 and the Ranger.

When morning came, the four M’s (Mihretu, Mark, Mike and Melissa) joined SaraJane for pancakes and yogurt (all based on the request of the littlest M). The morning continued forth with gopher hole making, car racing and a number of other entertaining activities spurred on by little M. All this was in anticipation of another arrival that of Fern the beautiful and kind mother of Mark. Upon Fern’s arrival Mark coyly convinced her that lunch at Sweet Melissa’s (the finest vegetarian restaurant in Wyoming) was in order. As no one can argue against Sweet Melissa’s, the whole crew made their way down town and enjoyed a very fine meal before seeing Mark off to spend time with his family.

The day continued forth in the way only a day with good friends can: conversation and silence, working on various projects within each other’s presence, etc. As the afternoon came to an end Mike and Melissa made their way to McAllister’s before heading to the Harrington sister’s household for a night of games and chit-chat, the perfect way to round out a perfect, Laramie day.

Vacation at Home: Laramie and Wheatland, WY August 3-4

After the lovely day or so with Ryan and Luella and all other Denver area family and friends, the Harrington’s were given a ride to Laramie, WY where they surprised SaraJane and Mihretu before heading off in separate directions. Mike stayed at 519 Clark kickin’ around with little M for a while prior to watching his sisters conquer the softball field and joining them for a long night of movies and who knows what other shenanigans.

As for Melissa, she packed up that sweet, long awaited hug from SaraJane and entered the loving embraces of Erin, Annalise and Hannah, the women who make up 519 Thread Place, the one thing that brings constant beauty to the not-always-beautiful-world of Facebook. These three women, alongside Melissa have maintained a Facebook thread since February of 2008, sharing deeply, honestly, angrily, joyfully and humorously regardless of distance. So it was, on August 3, 2011 these four women were able to come together at a time when each was in need of something slightly different yet something that could only be gained by enjoying community with one another.

The foursome enjoyed such Wheatland treasures as Tera Grano Italian Cream Sodas and Calzones, shopping at Pamida, Arby’s curly fries and soda, Tiara’s and Toddlers, sleeping at Motel 6, drive thru coffee and donuts enjoyed at Wheatland’s best little park. Conversations were deep, easy, rejuvenating, revealing and absolutely perfect. The hugs extended beyond the conversations and spoke volumes of the love and respect these women have grown for one another. And to think, it all started on a mountain, years ago...

Celebrating a Life in Clear Blue Skies

About a month ago, the Harrington's received news that a beloved man, Mike's grandfather, had passed away. Mike Harrington made the heartfelt decision to return to Wyoming for the funeral services and spend a couple of days with his loved ones. He spent his time being loved on by family and friends, celebrating an honorable life and capturing pieces of the people and land that the couple so affectionately call home.

Ladies and gentleman, enjoy a quick glimpse of a few faces and places the Harrington's love and miss and are counting down days until their next visit (which, at the time of posting is 41 days!!!)