First Time in Over a Month

I don't even know where to start. I have been on break since Dec. 10th. I had a good end to the semester. I stuck around Chicago to work a little and came home on Dec. 20th (my el pass expired the 19th) for my cousin Ben's 3rd birthday party. I was also blessed to be home for my friend and brother Caleb Zobrist's God story and baptism in Congerville that weekend.

Had a wonderful Christmas and looking forward to another Christmas on Saturday on my dad's side. For New Years I will be going to visit a friend (we are surprising her so I can't tell you where I am going).

I am in Central Illinois for a few more days. Heading back to Chicago on Sunday. My family will be taking me back home. My dad is very excited about going up to shop at Ikea, or at least eat there.

I have been enjoying catching up with friends and spending quality time with my family. I will be posting more soon, sorry this is so brief, but just wanted to let you all know I am still alive and well.

Looking to start up another semester on Jan 12th ish. I have a full semester ahead of me but I am looking forward to it. I will still be working with Brian and Nick and Interpreting. I may also have the opportunity to add another family to my babysitting (just around 4 hours per week)

HAPPY LAST DAY OF 2008! CRAZINESS.

Catch'up Time

well... highlights. I got to babysit again on Nov 9th. Cutest kids ever and so sweet.



Keara and Connor.

Nothin too much in school. I enjoy it. I love babysitting and tutoring. I can't wait to come home. I get to head back to central Illinois on Tuesday afternoon. I get to drive home. One of my friends let me take their car while they are in Mexico. I miss driving. I picked it up yesterday and loved just driving and listening to my music.


Last weekend was so fun. Amy Klotzle came in on Friday morning. We babysat and walked around a few streets (more north). Saturday morning got ready to host people. I had to borrow pancake syrup and lots of bedding from Joe and Mike "down under" (the apt. under us). Fun times.

We also saw a Parade outside our window. We first thought it was Obama then a communist march... then we finally went to investigate and found it was an awareness of a genocide that had happened in Ukraine in 1932. Never know what you will see on these streets.



Natalie, Tommy, Neal, Scott, Troy, Traci, and David came around 1:00. Johnny flew in around 4:00. We chilled and went to Emilio's Tapas Bar. A wonderful Spanish restaurant.

Had a big sleep over here. Sunday after church Traci and I went out to Michigan Ave. and the Magnificent Mile.

This week at the apt. Always fun times. Monday night was documentary night. Watched a film about Chinese 3rd graders voting. It was interesting. Thursday borrowed a car and bought a vacuum and bathroom de'cor. We are cool.

Amy Hohulin came to visit Wed. night. It has been great to have her around. She is here for a meeting but I get to see her in the evenings.

Today I am looking forward to Megan Kieser, Claire, and David Wuth coming to the city and then going to a musical at Timothy Christian School "Pirates of Pansan".

A weekend Post

Yesterday was good. I had an emergency Sign language assignment at an ER, it went well. Went to my next sign language assignment and found that they had actually meant to ask for a Spanish Interpreter. Oops. Not much help there.

Came home and visited "the neighbors" (well mainly Joe). Saw someone I knew in the Red Line El station. (that was very exciting, I know people in Chicago!)

Babysat Brain in the evening and then today...

Headed out to Woodfield. I started my journey at 9:00 A.m. after the 66 Chicago bus, Blue line to Jefferson Park, Shuttled to Harlem (because they are working on the El), finish the Blue line to Rosemont (one stop before O'hare) and Pace bus 606 to the mall I met Marcy and Katie at 10:45. I actually saw them pull into the Parking lot.



On the way to the mall I met a lady from China. She told me about her experiences with the Olympics and other things in life. On the way back I met a couple here on business from New Zealand and another lady who moved here from India in 1984. I love people, especially when they have accents.

It was good to see Marcy and Katie. I love my friends. And seeing them. When I was waiting for the Pace bus to go back to the City I saw a lady with 2 children and they were from Roanoke. Crazy small world. I know.

I started waiting for the bus at 3:15 and didn't get home til 6:15 (Not always a fan of public transportation). I guess I get what I pay for!

I am still Alive.

Well everything went smoothly Tuesday. Obama is actually still at his home here in Chicago. The people I babysit for, the dad, was guarding Obama's house on Tuesday night.

Lots I haven't blogged, but nothing really big. Last weekend I enjoyed the weekend in Chicago. Enjoyed the beautiful weather. We had a cook out on Sunday night. Us girls played 2-hand touch football. Fun times. 3 on 3. Derek would have been proud of the knowledge I displayed :). Julie Herold had the punting down with her boots! Met some good friends from Eureka that were up for the weekend. Malea Cautro, a lovely 11 year old friend of mine.

went to Mark Miller's concert last Thursday night! That was good stuff. Joe and Rachel came with me. What can I say, I have some good friends. Also last Thursday a group came up to the City Kali, Gabi, Kayla, Amy, Zach, Nate. So good to spend the day with them



This week... test, babysat, did some interpreting appointments, went to a Fondue party, helped make the colors for Andrea to paint Vango's stary night on a pumpkin, played powder puff football, wrote a paper, got our Carpets shampooed (by land lord) and cleaned our fans (4 blades, not 5), Gave Blood. And decided life would be way more fun if I didn't have a memory. So my friend, Joe challenged me to write a book about that. (I wasn't really serious)

So that is a good little start.

Here is a picture of the little boy, Brian, I babysit for.

So much. So little time

I had a GREAT weekend. We raised the roof at my house in Roanoke. Beautiful weather.



Before we got started

Enjoyed Bible study Thursday night and friends. Friday got the house a little cleaner. Then in the evening I was able to have supper with some friends (Bob and Charlene Schumacher and Heather). After supper I went with some of my family to Derek's last football game.



(Check out number 73!)

It was a lot of fun. Totally missed the rain but it was still cold. Saturday lots of good food and lots of good work accomplished. Thank you everyone who came to help! And no one got hurt, Good times.



After the day was finished we had all the plywood sheets on.



Us girls also cut the chicken's feathers so they can't fly over the fence along with making lots of good food.

Sunday, went to Roanoke church. Enjoyed a relaxing afternoon. Ryan gave me a ride back into Chicago and fortunately dropped me off at my apt. (I would not have made it on the el). Got caught up with the room mate. Had a tea party and that's it.

Today was awfully windy. Babysat Brain and went to Class.

My dream come true.

So today my aunt called. She had to leave a message and told me to call her back she had exciting news.

SHE HAS 2 FREE TICKETS TO SEE WICKED THE MUSICAL. I am so excited. It was interesting because no more than an hour earlier I had told myself that I just couldn't afford it and I would just have to come to grips that I wouldn't ever get to see it here in Chicago. BUT... NO. I get to January 10th. I am super excited! I have wanted to see this musical for years and it is leaving Chicago in January (a few weeks later I guess).

I sliced my finger open today while cleaning the mirror. Yes. Random. but it keeps breaking open. Stupid cuts.

Today I set my alarm for 8:30 instead of 7:30 so I missed the first 45 minutes of class but I didn't miss much and the other hour and 45 was well worth it.

Rachel made me an amazing pizza thing for supper tonight! It was so good. That is the end of my day.

I GET TO GO HOME TOMORROW. Leaving on the train around 1:45. I know it seems like I always go home but I never get tired of it. And this weekend we have a "barn raising" on Saturday. Please pray for nice weather and all are welcome, if you are around.

I love the Clow Family!!!

What a day. Started with Philosophy of Law. It was an interesting day. Full of theories and laws. A lot of thought provoking information but my mind was on the rest of my day.

Kathy called this morning to let me know they would be meeting me at the Planetarium at 12:00. The kids didn't know I was going to be there. When they got off the bus I was already there and was right outside the museum. John and Kathy pointed me out and it was attack of the Clow children. OH... I have missed those 4. They all gave me big hugs and Evan showed me his proud possession. He had the Metra schedule. Rebekah helped me to hold on to my ticket. Let me tell you, you can not out-love the Clow kids.



We enjoyed the museum.



Some quotables:

Evan (a little over 5) and I were walking and I asked him what that was (it was a tiny earth). He said a planet. I asked him which one. He said, "This one!" emphatically.

After we were finished at the Planetarium we headed outside. It was raining with not a cloud insight. We found the Rainbow and Abigail asked how a rainbow is formed. I told her to ask her mom. (Kathy is teaching the children on the road and I thought this would be a good chance to teach her about the sun and rain colliding.) So Kathy asked her, "Why do you think it is there". She replied, "Because we obeyed". She may not know her science; but what a better way of showing God's beauty. Thanks Abi.



Along the way to the "bean" and the city, Evan, Josiah, Bekah, and Abigail picked me my first bouquet of wild flowers (dandelions).



It was such an encouraging day to get out and really enjoy the city. I need to cut this short though. Babysitting this evening from 7-10. See ya.

Just Chilling.

Well. I am ready for Rachel to get back. She went home this weekend from Thursday til tomorrow. Although I am going home Thursday til Sunday this coming week. This week should be a little more relaxing. Today I babysat with Brian. He was very good. Nothin' too special. Although, this kids has the most love able laugh!!

Yesterday was a very encouraging day. Spent the day at church. Ron Messner was there and had the morning service. very convicting and encouraging. Talked about being honest with God and people and also giving our worries and concerns to God emphasis on Luke 12:34. There were a few people from Roanoke, which is always nice.

After church I went with Boyd and Lois to Potluck at Randy and Heather Knapp's. I enjoyed that opportunity to get to know more people from Chicago better. And of course a wonderful supper!

Tomorrow I am hoping to get together with the Clow's. Last July I was blessed to spend the month with them! I miss them a lot and can't wait to see them. then I will finish up the day with babysitting Brian from 7-10 p.m. and catching up with Rachel!

Still enjoying this weather.

Enjoying a Lazy Saturday.

Yesterday, I found out the man that was giving the IV and the patient I was working for were both Christians. It was interesting to see the procedures go so smoothly. We all thanked God for that. The patient usually has to get stuck many times due to her lack of veins, but one stick and she was good to go. (That was my morning job).

Then I came back home and slept until 9:15 p.m. and headed off to interpret for a third shift employee. It went so well. I was just starting to get into the slappy phase when the shift ended. Praise the Lord I didn't fall asleep, but a few times I could tell my signing was a little lazy due to tiredness. My shift was 10:00 p.m.-6:30 a.m.

Then slept in until 11:00 and my body is ready to finish the day. Tonight I am babysitting 7-11 p.m.. Tomorrow I am going to go to Chicago church with Boyd and Lois and then potluck after church.

The rest of today involves homework. That's it...

I need a secretary

Today was Fine. I am very interested to see how I do tomorrow though.

Frustrating people: Monday one of my teachers assigned a book to buy and read by next class. Well I forgot until yesterday. So I stopped by the downtown bookstore and talked to a man about it. He claimed they didn't have it. Well I knew they should but thought it was only at the Lake Shore campus. So I called there and they said they had it. I asked if they could get it downtown. no, not without doubling the price of the book due to shipping?! what?!... shuttle buses go back and forth at least 50 times a day. Anyway so I went up there today. Only to see the same guy that I had talked to at the downtown campus. He informed me he found the same book at the downtown campus a few minutes after I left. GRRRR. oh well... at least I have the book now.

Tomorrow. Craziness. I have 4 interpreting assignments. So tonight I am looking up directions. I realized it will take 2 hours to get to one of them (due to public transportation). I only have an hour, by the time I get there it will be over. This is not good!! I have no idea what will happen. I e-mailed the coordinator.

I also signed up to work from 10:00 p.m. til 6:30 a.m. That will be interesting. I don't know how to prepare my body for tomorrow. Poor body.

Please pray I will be calm and not anxious about the day. Please pray I will enjoy the day and enjoy every breath remembering it is truly a gift from God. Please pray I can have the energy tomorrow night/Saturday morning. Thank you all.

P.S. Chicago church is having an invite-some-friends weekend Nov 1st and Nov 2nd. If anyone is interested or free that weekend. I would love a friend or 2. e-mail me please, heshere247@hotmail.com.

now to do a little catchin' up.

I went home last weekend. Had a good weekend. I got to go to ISU Biblestudy on Thursday night. It was so good to see everyone. My Grandma did meet me at the station with wonderful food!

Friday... OH! Beautiful day! I got to pick up a few of my friends from the Peoria Airport. Abby, Bethy, and Lauren. We went up to Grandview Drive and saw the beautiful tree.



We ate at Steak 'n Shake. Bethany's first time. It went well. Then went and visited Natalie at her place and then we joined David W. and Megan P. and her room mate at Avantis. Always good.

Then headed back to Peoria. I dropped off the girls and headed back up to Grandview for some thinking time. It was so beautiful. Then joined some friends once again at Avantis (but now it was Peoria's :) ).

Saturday I got to visit with my cousins and their babies. CRAZY. I know.



They are so precious.

well... Joe came up to visit. We talked about the doom of the world and much more...And now I am tired and going to bed. The end.

This is from Thursday I just never got it posted.

I will get you more up to date maybe Wednesday. I have a busy day tomorrow.

class
interpreting
tutoring
babysitting
midterm studying still. (ONE MORE)
oh yeah and a paper (just need a few more tweeks.

No posting tomorrow... Sorry.

Thursday:

On the train again. Thanks to David and Traci, I can type my papers, write blogs, or do anything on the computer. It has been very very appreciated.

Yesterday. It was a good day. I got to babysit Brain (9:30-4:00), tutored Nickolas (4:45-6:15), went to class (7:00-9:30). I even had enough time to get to the different locations. Although on the way to Nick's, I realized I forgot my map. It did take about double the time, but I was still there right at 4:45. Also for class I was about 5 minutes late, but the teacher hadn't started..

WHY DO PEOPLE SMOKE. In my night class, there was this guy that I sat by. He smelled when I sat down then at break he smoked and it reeked! Yuck... I literally did not breathe out of my nose for about 45 minutes then I put my hand up to block the smell after the 45 minutes. But I did learn about some interesting court trials in class. :)

Today I had my midterm for Philosophy. Ahhh.... it was one essay question. It took me a good 40 + minutes to even read the whole thing and try to understand it. But I feel I gave a complete answer and referenced a few of the different theories we discussed in class.

After class I headed out for my first sign-language interpreting assignment. It will be good to have a few of those under my belt. Due to the strict confidentiality code I can't post much about it. But this one went really well. I will be doing another one on Tuesday! Fun times, I really enjoy my signing skills. Although they have a long way to improve!

And now. I am on my way to Pontiac. My grandma will pick me up. She is going to drop me off at ISU and then I will catch a ride with Sara to Roanoke and start a busy weekend. Should be fun though. Good thing Grandma is bringing me food 'cause I am hungry.

My 2 study days were very ... productive.

I'm on my way back to Chicago. I am on the South Shore Line. I spent the last 2 days as a part of the Virkler clan. Here are my hospitable hosts for the last 2 days...



I headed out there Monday morning. After making the friendship bread til 2:00 in the morning, I was slightly tired. I took the two hour train ride as an opportunity to take a nap. Natalie and Portia picked me up from the South Bend airport around 12:00 and we were off. We spend a good part of the afternoon catching up and enjoying Portia. She is so sweet. One year of life but so excited about every breath.



When Nathan got home, we ate some great supper and headed to the pet smart. It was time for Portia to get her first pet. They invested in a beautiful beta fish. Named: Fish. I know baby names are always so creative.

After Portia went to bed we enjoyed a good game of Poker and we all went to bed happy. Natalie was a little happier than Nathan and I due to the game ending with her winning :). Good job Natalie.

Today I slept in. Then in the afternoon, after Portia's nap, we headed out to see the sights of South Bend. I really enjoyed seeing and walking the Notre Dame campus. It is beautiful, especially in the fall. I saw some awesome architecture amongst other sights. Then headed to head-site where Nathan works. Got a mini tour and then got to hang with Portia during Nathan and Natalie's Chiropractor appointments. Then supper. Then train home.

Also today I found out I got a 20 hour/week nanny job. Oh-dear. So here is my schedule. 15 hours of school. 20 hours of 1 nanny job. 2-4 hours of a tutoring job. 4 hours of volunteer tutoring. And at least 4 hours of interpreting/ week. How many hours are in a week (– Sunday), again? I think something is going to have to go. We shall see though.

Beautiful Wiener Roast Weather.

Today was a beautiful Sunday. After about 2:30ish.

Enjoyed Chicago church today. I really appreciate getting to know the people there. They are so welcoming and kind to me. I really do enjoying going to Chicago church! I got to meet a bunch of new people. I need to check out the church book and see how many people I know now after 2 Sundays.

After church I went with Keri Stoller, Julie Eisenmann, and Andrea Luthi to join the rest of the church at the nursing home to sing to residents. I miss my Eureka residents. I'll have to try and get over there next time I go home. After we sang we headed to Keri's to change for a bon-fire/cookout at Brad & Cindy Eisenmann's.

For the bon-fire we were encouraged to bring a gift of 30 items for Ben Funk's 30th birthday. Well I didn't know who he was so I wasn't going to bring anything but then we got this great idea to take him 30 pieces of toilet paper. We even wrote him a birthday poem on it (Andrea added some great marker stamps to jazz it up). lol. If only he knew how much that describes me... (toilet paper and poems. What more does a person need in life).

The night was a wonderful time full of food, frisbee, and friends.

I just took about an hour break from Blogging. Me and Rachel made up some friendship bread. Joe bought us some stuff we were lacking and now it is baking. Tomorrow I get to go to see Natalie, Portia, and Nathan. I am excited. Night.

Lazy Saturday

Well let's see. I really enjoyed my night with the Plattner's last night. We went to RJ Grunts. on Wells (I think). Aaron got their "Famous RJ Chilli" and has now decided he wants to try chili in all the different restaurants. Bekah got some good quasadillas that she shared and I got a pineapple, coconut, raspberry shake. It was deeelish.

Today involved just a relaxing morning. Grabbed my homework and worked on that while watching the Illini vs. Michigan game. (you should all go watch the highlights. It was a good game. Illini hadn't won a game at Michigan's home "Big Bowl" since 1999 so it was about time. Juice was on fire.)

Then came back and got to meet Eric Zimmerman (he came over to Aaron and Bekah's for supper also). Bekah made an amazing calzone thing. so good and chips and salsa
(from Eric) with refried beans. Then some apples (cut perfectly by Aaron) and carrots to be healthy. I brought over some crystal light raspberry lemonade.

GOD"S TIMING STORY: so I was shooting to get over to Bekah and Aaron's at about 6:00. Well low and behold I was running late. As I was just coming up to the El Brown Line station I saw the el towards Kimball (my train) leaving. I missed it by seconds (remember Mandy Steffen when we missed the Metra by seconds. that was bad news cause it didn't come again for an hour.) Anyway... so there I was impatiently waiting for the next el. I texted Bekah to let her know I was going to be late and just relaxed as I had a few minutes. Then a girl from outside the platform asked me "how do I get in?" I showed her where but she didn't have a card with her. I was able to let her use my "guest car" <-- because I have a school one but if I ever need to take someone with me I have an extra. and then she paid me the $2. It worked out perfect and I know it helped her day go a little smoother. And when I got over for supper, they were not all waiting for me. I was still able to help with supper and such.

After supper we just chilled and all worked on a little homework/studying. (stupid Philosophy of Law.)

Life is getting busier.

Yesterday I tutored with Nicolas another 2 hours then I got to babysit for a different family while they went to the Cubs game. It was sad. But the debate was good. Sara Palin did very well. speaking of which. I just got my absentee ballot in the mail today. Babysitting was wonderful though. The younger son was in bed by the time the parents left and then Kaera went right to bed after calling my mom (it was her birthday), taking a few pictures, and reading some Halloween stories. She is 4, blonde and so precious. I probably won't get to babysit them much though.

I got to ride in the taxi last night for the first time. The driver was very nice and I enjoyed his music selection.

Today... I just had a bunch of little things. I met with Jayme (Nicolas's mom) and got a little more information about tutoring and picking him up from school. Then around 12:30 I headed for another babysitting interview. This would be a 2 year old. The parents are really sweet but they said they are still interviewing others and will be in touch by next Tuesday ish. That would be a good amount of hours if I get that position.

Then I came back home and did a little exercising. Rachel (my room mate) said the guy below us asked his roommate (joe) if we jump rope. lol. I guess my walking exercise is a little loud.

Then went and got a drug screening for volunteer tutoring. Next to CAIRS (Chicago Area Interpreting Relay Service) and dropped off my application. THEY ALREADY GAVE ME 3 DIFFERENT ASSIGNMENTS!! I have to get to practicing more.

ooo, best part. I got to go out to eat, Chipolte. Just me. I really enjoyed the solitude and the Burrito. I love that place.

Now I am finishing up at home. This weekend I don't get to go home. We will see how that goes. I am looking forward to the weekend. Aaron and Bekah have graciously agreed to let me stay overnight at their house tonight and tomorrow night because Rachel's family is coming into town. I am looking forward to meeting them too. Then Saturday watch some College football with Ryan Graf and maybe get to see Jason and Joy Huber.

Church on Sunday (heading out with Aaron and Bekah) then a bonfire later at Eisenmann's.

Hey there is a clippity-clop (Aka horse drawn carriage.)

that's all for now. Tune in next time to read about...

I got paid!

Today was at least sunny, but cold. Speaking of which my room mate has a bad one :(. She called in sick today. But at least we got to watch lots of Gilmore Girls! "When you out on the run, feeling lost and so cold, all you have to do is caaaalll my name and I will be there on the next train."

I took my first test of the semester. It went ok. 2 essay questions. Not good.

This afternoon I tutored with an 11 year old boy, Nicolas. He was a lot of fun. We studied science and about the earth and moon. Then I road the el with a bunch of cubbies fans and came home.

I can not think of anything more you should know about the city and I. So long. until tomorrow probably.

Lots of Homework

so last night I told myself, well and Rachel and Joe :), I need to be doing my homework. I even had it out. Well I did a little but not enough.

Today was full of homework. It was a beautiful day. It is starting to take on the fall weather. It has that chill in the wind. It was refreshing though. Went to class. Came home and did a little exercising and have been studying (with a few interruptions, thanks Megs :) )since 1:30 ish. I have a paper for tonight. Group project for tomorrow morning, and a Midterm tomorrow night.

I did get a call about Thursday and that is a go. I will be babysitting and I get to take the cab to their house (that will be a new transportational experience). Also I got a call about doing some after school tutoring and I will start doing that in a few weeks on Tuesday and Thursdays from 2:30-4:30 in Albany Park. Albany Park is a very diverse neighborhood and I am looking forward to the experience. Also got a call about an ongoing babysitting job every Wednesday at the least. I am meeting with the family Saturday. Life will start to get a little busier. Maybe :)

Rachel is out getting groceries. liz drove her out so we can get them at a better price. I can't wait for some good food, although I enjoyed my shells and cheese for supper tonight. Thanks Rachel and Liz.

ok. well back to midterm studying and I need to proof read my paper one more time.

Awful Day in Chicago.

very rainy and windy. Bad for the umbrella (if I remember it).

Yesterday was a wonderful wedding. Andy and Tori Schick. I got to sit with my old room mate Liz in the morning. (and afternoon in our "party of 6" David Wuth. Livy Wuth, Mark Roth, Liz, Marcy, and I). Reception was simple and elegant. Mark and Laura took me back up to the Metra Station. Always good to catch up with them.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION: well first I thought I would take the buses back... welp they don't run on Sunday nights. Next I went back and the tracks were all switched for the brown line so the first el I watched go by on the wrong set of tracks. oops. but it was ok. at least the weather was nice.

Got back and Rachel had some people over (Justin and Joe)and that was fun.

Today... nothing really worth blogging about. I went to an orientation for "Youth Outreach Services" I am going to start tutoring I think within the month. And a lady e-mailed me about babysitting Thursday (<-- don't know if that will work because I don't have a car) but... yeah. now more homework. Gearing up for mid-terms soon.

Weekend

I'm tired. So why am I blogging instead of going to bed... I have no idea.

Thursday night was wonderful. I enjoyed going to a friend of Rachel's, Liz's, house. It was for the Office premier.When I left I didn't remember the directions Rachel told me 2 minutes before I left. I walked about 15 minutes the wrong way and then got on the el heading the wrong direction but the doors opened one last time before it started to go so I slipped off and went on the other side. When I got to the other side there was a woman there who had left her phone at a friend's house so I was able to let her borrow my phone. I love it when God's timing is so evident.

I got back into the city and met up with Marcy (about 9:15 p.m.) she let me drive around the city and show her a few different areas. Then parked on the street over night.

Marcy quote of the weekend: 7-11 without gas is like a Starbucks without coffee.

Friday. Breakfast.

GOD STORY: So Marcy had told me the night before that she wanted to grab her money from the car but I told her we could just get it in the morning, well in the morning I just took care of moving her car and I left her money in the car cause I didn't want her to have to pay for anything (the gas is a hefty price alone). Anyway. We found a cute little diner right down the road for breakfast. We had just got our meal when a gentleman came up and told us he had paid for our meals. He proceeded to give God the glory and remark on God's faithfulness in bringing us through times that are not always easy and listening to the spirit's voice. It was so special. God always out gives us but sometimes he is more obvious than others. Thanks Pablo.

After brunch Marcy and I walked to the beach and roller bladed up Lake Michigan's shore line. It was a beautiful day. Then we headed home around 1:00. I got to drive out of the city. Traffic was not bad (can't image a few hours later though). Got home and Landon and I (well really Landon and dad but... ) hosted a Bible study at our house.

Bible study was about Samson. A good point brought up is the fact that he had his eyes poked out. His life was driven by his eyes and satisfying them.

Today I got to go visit some people I haven't seen for a while. (some people were not home so I just got to talk to them on the phone). Grandma and Grandpa Jim. Grandma Dorothy. Alma Wackerle. Jane and Jerry Schumacher. Roy and Norma Hangartner. Ted Schick. and Charlene Schumacher.

this afternoon I helped make mint for my mom's wedding in 2 weeks with my Grandma Marti, and aunt Tina. Tonight a bunch of us girls from Roanoke got together and enjoyed a pizza party and a fun evening at Heather Leman's. Now it is time for bed.

Wedding in Morton, Altadena, and Washington (I will be in Morton). I wonder if there will be an engagements tomorrow?

Good night.

Museum of Science and Industry

2 posts in 2 days. Craziness. I know. Maybe I can keep it shorter.

Today the weather was beautiful. We turned on the air, probably around 80. Started my day in Social Work class. nothing special that I remember. Next um...

I got to go to the Museum of Science and Industry today. It is free the month of September so. I went. When I got there they let me know they were going to have a fire drive. It wasn't until about 3:00 so I walked around for about an hour. I really enjoyed it. There are some fun exhibits, although the farming one has a little too much green for my liking.

Some of my favorite exhibits included: the little doll house, the forward in the future (there are some crazy things people are trying to do out there). The circus eye spy area (but life size I spy), the U-505 submarine was incredible, and on my way out I had to enjoy an interactive shadow screen. If you stand 2 feet away from this screen it has bubbles that my shadow can bounce. I don't understand but it was so fun!!!

Tonight's class was good. We talked a lot about politics (It is American Polotics 101). Freddy Mac and Fanny Mae. It was really interesting. A lot about the economy. I don't know what I think about all of it. Also talked about Mc Cain not wanting to keep the debate on Friday but wanting to go instead to Washington D.C. and help with economy issues?! Anyone know much about this stuff?

Also tomorrow morning my teacher is going to be speaking about Same-sex marriages verses unions. It will be an interesting class. This is in my Philosophy of law class. And to top it all off my teacher wrote the 20 page text on the subject. He feels it is not appropriate that America does not honor same-sex relations equal to marriages.

I have been able to talk to a few friends and got some encouragement about it and I still am not sure exactly what will happen tomorrow.

I am very excited to have Marcy coming tomorrow night!!! She is sticking around until Friday and then she is bringing me home and I have a Bible study at my house and Sunday looking forward to Andy and Tori's wedding.

so much for being a little shorter.

I am blogging from MY computer.

My cousins Traci and David gave me one of their laptops. Thank you guys so much. I love it! Such a blessing.

Well I have class in about an hour but I thought I would take a break and bring you all up to speed :). Sunday was a beautiful wedding. check out Heidi Knapp's blog for pictures. (it is one of my connected blogs on the side). I got to carry a tray of coffee cups (glass mind you) while Elise Pfaffman poured them for me. Good arm exercising.

Sunday afternoon I got to go see my "Grandma" Doris, she is technically by blood not related BUT in heart and otherwise her and my "Grandps" Jim are a wonderful set of Grandparents.

GOD STORY. PRAYER TESTIMONY: About 5 weeks ago today she had a stroke, or something. Grandpa took her straight to the hospital. She was unresponsive for at least 8 days. They were draining blood from her brain the whole time. When I went to Chicago she they had just put the trachea in. At that point she started to get better but slowly no one knew if she would wake up and if she did what kind of damage her brain had endured. Well she came home Saturday after many long weeks in the hospital!!!! I went over to see her and she was walking and knew me and remembered that I had stayed at Boyd and Lois's and asked how that was. It is truly a miracle!

Sunday night I got to go to a Young Group family picnic at Wayne and Julie Leman's (and Heather, Travis, and Ryan's) :). It was so good to see all my friends. I love my home!

Sunday night I went back with David and Traci to Valpo and got into the city and went home and .... it really was good to back.

Last night was so much fun. I GOT TO VACUUM our apt. It had not been vacuumed since we moved in because we were waiting for it to get shampooed and we didn't have a vacuum. I had to borrow one from our great neighbor Joe! Although, I almost got done and it stopped working. I thought I had broke it, which would have been really bad because it was actually Joe's room mate's , not good. But about 30 minutes later it turned on. Last night some friends of Rachel's (now my friends too. I think) came over.

Today was another beautiful day. I got to spend the afternoon with Lois and a lady named Peggy. She is physically handicap but has a wonderful sense of humor and good spirits. We got to watch her and her husband's wedding which was 3 years ago (they are probably about 65 now). It was so precious to see them. It reminded me of the way God uses people in so many different ways.

I CAN DRIVE STICK

so this evening on the way home my brother taught me how to drive stick shift. This is a really big deal. It went well. I really enjoyed it. I could use a little more practice. I only killed it when I was coming into the driveway (my friend Amy E. did the same thing except for it was parking for the Leo sale. lol.). Anyway.

Thursday my mom and her Fiance, Cris, came up to Chicago for a design show thing. They got into the city around 3:00. Earlier I was not feeling very good. My teeth were throbbing. very strange. and I just felt really wiped, so for a while I just went to the park and took a nap and a good book, Waking the Dead. I also got to talk to some good friends. Suzy K and Amy K (they are sister's in law)!!! I miss them. then went back to Central IL with mom and Cris

With mom and Cris we went to the Lake Shore and walked. I can't wait to take my roller blades out to the lake sometime. It was perfect weather Thursday! Thursday night I got to spend the night with my cousin Christi at my Grandma Marti's house.

Friday: I had called Polly to get together sometime while I was home, she mentioned that she was going to a concert Friday night (Art Music Justice with Derek Webb, Sandra Macracken-Webb, Charlie Peacock, Brandon Heath, and Sara Groves). I was praying about what to do and was really torn...

GOD STORY: So I still don't have any source of income. I told myself that I would enjoy extra luxuries i.e. going to concerts, eating out by myself, museums... when I get a job. I wanted to think about going to the Art Music Justice concert with Polly and company... but I didn't want to spend God's money on that. I prayed God would show me what to do and when I got home Friday morning He did. I had an e-mail that I had been accepted to take notes for pay in one of my classes! God is so faithful. TRUST HIM.

Friday I also was able to enjoy tearing out some lava rocks in our landscaping at home with my dad while my brother was running a skidster (Yeah, my family is cool).

Last night's concert was good. And of course the 2 1/2 road trip was memorable. :) always fun. I spent the night at "the crossings" (Polly's apt).

This morning my lovely friend Nat came over to go walking BUT I forgot to put my phone on ring so I didn't hear it and I didn't hear the door bell (nor did anyone else in the house) but my persistent friend found a way to get in and wake me up and we enjoyed a much needed walk.

10:30 my cousin David W. picked me up and we were off to my Grandma Marti's house for lunch with my family (about 10 of us). We get to her house and there is no one there. A few food items but no food. I knew something was not right so I called her on her cell phone. Grandma picked up and told me she was on her way home from the hospital. SCARY! She had been cutting up watermelon earlier and sliced her finger to the bone, even chipped it, so they stitched her up at the hospital but they aren't sure if it will heal or not, Please PRAY for her swift healing. We still had lunch and stuff though and she was doing pretty good when I left.

Today brought a wonderful supper with my family, I made some bread, Landon worked on some beef dear jerky, Claire got home from a volleyball tournament, we watched the clubs vs. cards game and looked for Caleb and David in the stands but didn't see them :( and that was definitely not in order of the events. lol. oh well.

went to a singing and now I am home with a scrapbook page I need to finish, well start too (it is for the wedding tomorrow, in Washington, IL Katelyn Fehr and Mark Stoller), and finish their wedding card, and GET SOME SLEEP. THE END.

Coming back from a wonderful weekend~

Today...

well first I need to catch you up to today.

Sunday. Seth and Ang's wedding. It was so encouraging. Talked a lot about God's faithfulness and trusting Him. For me personally, it was just what I needed. I haven't had a hard time trusting that God wants me here in Chicago, but I know Satan will come and it is good to have some verses from Psalm 37 ready to defeat him.

GOD STORY: I wanted to be at supper with my family around 6:00 on Sunday, but I was signed up to work 2nd shift at the reception and I thought that might be cutting it close. So I went to church and didn't find anyone (Megan said she would though, if I couldn't find anyone to switch), went to the reception and needed to find Livvy to switch with. I hadn't seen her all day so I just went out to see if I could find her in the line, nope. About 15 minutes later I went back to the kitchen and Jackie (Livvy's mom) asked me if I knew of anyone who wanted to switch to 2nd shift because Livvy was on her way here from Cissna but was going to be late.

[well I still didn't leave til 4:30 (I could have worked 2nd shift.)]. We had a wonderful birthday (it was for Landon's birthday) supper.

Monday Erica S. brought me back to Chicago and I was able to spend the morning with my Grandma and mom. Monday night Rachel made supper and we spent the evening playing card games (I taught her to play Kings-in-the-corner, speed, super speed -Traci, and rummy (refreshed)).

Tuesday... enjoyed sweeping the floor and listening to Sarah Palin's acceptance speech finally. Then my aunt Donita came up to visit me. She picked me up and we went for sushi, visited the Lincoln Park Zoo, and ate at Ed Debevic's. Then some "friends" (<-- they are actually Rachel's but now they are mine :) ) came over. Joe (our neighbor), Mariam, Weston, and Chelsea. We pretty much just talked and laughed for about an hour. That is what I love to do, so it was a great ending to a BEAUTIFUL day.

Today... nothing much. except I got my library card. WAHOO!!! I haven't had one for a really long time, now I can "borrow" free museum passes (I think limit is 2 per card).

I am now "listening" to Mc Cain's acceptance speech and (ok I am boring) making super tonight. Spaghetti, salad, lime jello, and bread. Come on over 5:15! All are welcome

My Weekend +

oh my. so much to catch up on. I will try to make it brief. First cause I have homework and 2nd cause I am sure you guys can only handle so much of my life :).

Friday was good. Finished a lot of homework in the morning. It was a gloomy day but to terribly rainy yet. to save 90 cents I road the bus and el out to where the science and industry museum is to catch the South shore Line to Dune Park where Traci picked me up. (I found out at the station before I got on that the museum is free the month of September during the week, so I am sure you will be reading about that adventure sometime.) Then headed to Purdue with Traci and David. So good to be with them. It was good to be in Purdue again. I enjoyed singing and worshipping together. It really is an encouragement and gives me a renewed sense of energy. On the way, I felt it was going in vain, that there were so many other things I could having been doing that had more physical helpfulness, but I realized I needed the encouragement after the weekend. We had the 2nd singing on the parking garage. Went out to IHOP with a small group. It was so good to see so many friends.

Friday I was hoping to go to bed in good time but didn't happen, a little hanging in the hallways had to be done and then I did get a good 4 1/2 hours of sleep. Saturday morning the guys made a wonderful breakfast full of fruit, biscuits and gravy, and ... it was so good. Bible study was challenging. The part that really stuck with me was talking about the woman at the well. She was so excited that Jesus "told her all her sins". It gave me a renewed encouragement to connect with people. It is a glory to God when we invest in other people's lives. Also talked about feeding of the 5,000. The disciples just wanted their needs met but Jesus met all the people's needs and had leftovers for the disciples. So many good points.

Played volleyball in the co-rec center after Bible study for about 3 hours, Hannah Feller let me borrow her shoes otherwise my feet would have not made it. It was a lot of fun and such good exercise. Then headed home with a wonderful car load of girls Leah Gerber, Megan and Emily Kieser. Leah and I talked the whole way home and Megan and Emily took a nap. Then went to my mom's for supper and headed to Megan's from there. Almost had a little accident due to flooding and hydroplaning, but it was OK. All is well that ends well. I was extremely slap happy.

I'm sorry this is too long to keep going. I will fill you in on the wedding and yesterday later. Also looking ahead my aunt Donita is going to join me today. I don't really know what we will be doing, but it will be fun to have company. the end for now.

Faithfully Amazing.

Another beautiful day in the wonderful windy city, Chi-town. Thanks to all those who are leaving comments. I appreciate them. I miss you all and wish I could just see you in person. So keep the comments coming.

Today was another day of Philosophy. A lot of different court cases and focusing on the job of the courts. It was good. I am always so amazed at the Professor's timing. He is faithfully there right on the dot and finishes his lectures exactly at 11:15, and always ends it so tactfully.

The afternoon was full of some homework in the park. I went to a park a few blocks from here. It is beautiful and peaceful with a big fountain and beautiful flowers. I read my social welfare text and answered some questions. The book kinda dampened the park setting but it was good :).

Now the fun part. I got back to my apt. and I had an e-mail from the contact person for my certification results from a sign language test I had taken in May. I have been waiting for a long time for the results. He told me that he tried to send them, but they got returned. I e-mailed him back and asked if I could just pick them up ASAP. So I got to pick them up today at the CAIRS' (Chicago Area Interpreter Referral Service) office. While I was there I talked to the referral agency lady about putting my name on the interpreter list. She said to do it as soon as possible because they are in need of interpreters!!!! So this weekend I will be working on finding my resume' and printing up some business cards and other professional things. I am excited but WAY out of practice and my scoring was not the greatest on the ISAS (the professional test), but it is ok. I can still work. Always room for improvement and I can always take the test again.

Also in one of my classes they mentioned there was an opportunity to get paid for "note taking' and tonight I went to Moody's Thursday Night Praise and Erica picked up an e-mail for babysitting 1 day a week. Isn't God amazing. SO FAITHFUL.

Tonight Erica Sauder came into the city to see me. I really appreciated it. She is such a blast to be with. We went with Joe (my "Moody" neighbor) to get slurpees (and I definitely spilled a box full of baseball-like cards on the floor. then Erica spilled a bunch of lids on the floor) oops. And then went to Thursday night worship and finished off the night just chilling and talking and of course a little politics.

Looking ahead: tomorrow I get to go out on the Train to be picked up and transported to Purdue with my lovely cousins Traci and David. Then head with my precious friend Megan to Illinois to go to my Christ focused friends's wedding Seth and Ang. Then spend some quality time with my unmatchable family and head off on the train Monday morning.

Question of the night: If God was a color, what, in your mind, would it be and why?

my day...

I feel like when I blog my day sounds so much more exciting! So hear we go...

well I got up. went to Social Work class. I don't remember a lot from it. Just that the lady gave us some homework :P (don't worry mom and dad your money is going toward a wonderful education :) ). Then after class Loyola had a complimentary lunch for the students, teachers, and faculty. It was so good! I had a veggie berger, BBQ ribs, watermelon, corn/bean salad, and a diet dr. pepper. <-- blogs are weird, who talks about this kind of boring stuff... welp, you just read about it.

then I came back and worked on looking for a job. After about 2 hours and 5 phone calls, I got nothin'. well I did leave a message with the Chicago Public Schools about sub interpreting. so please pray that God's desires will be the focus of my desires as my funds deplete and I look for a job.

Then I read for my night class tonight (2 hours, and the teacher will never know, gotta love school). It was an interesting book actually. ok the title sounds awful. How Democratic is the American Constitution? It was critiquing the American Constitution. It had some valid points and I was able to understand it. (unlike my Philosophy classes material which I still need to read for tomorrow).

Went to class. Tonight is out at the North shore campus. I always enjoy the ride though. Gives me a chance to read. FYI: I have used the brown (to give blood), red (to go to school and Boyd and Lois's), and blue lines (to get out to Scott, Neal, and Troy's), buses, Metra (Mark and Laura's), and Amtrak (HOME!!!). Anyway class was interesting. I really am not a big fan of the teacher. Then the second half of the class we talked about the election and voting percentages. I am definitely in Chicago. I am surrounded by Palin bashing, and at this point I really don't know how to respond. I would love to hear some points from you. There were a few people in the class that had some supporting thoughts, but mainly not so much. (Same in my Social Work class, except they were ALL negative toward the Republicans).

Also in this American Politics class the teacher brought up the point that Illinois makes it difficult for citizens to vote. It was interesting to hear the different views. In the end, I concluded, It is just that we are lazy, irresponsible, and want to be hand fed everything. Anyway, I was a little heated when I left that class.

On the El/subway I read a little bit of my book, Waking the Dead by John Eldredge. I would highly recommend it. Actually, it is Cori's book. I don't even remember when she let me borrow it, I will get it back to you Cori. Anyway. He was talking about the point of asking yourself and your God "Who am I? What do you think of me? What is my real name?" God wants my honest, he already knows it anyway. It was good to be refocused to my reason for every breathe and that God's glory delights in shining through me when I let Him. So I guess I would just like to end on that note. I encourage you to shine God's glory and remember you are God's (if you have chosen Him) and so beautiful and desired by him.

A Tuesday in the Windy City.

Well today was a completely different day weather wise. It was a beautiful fall temperature. I enjoyed sporting a light jacket, well sweatshirt but the jacket sounded better. There was not a cloud insight. (Yesterday it rained ALL day).

I started out my morning with my Philosophy class. Today we studied the Riggs vs. Palmer. It is a case about a grandson who poisoned his Grandfather to gain his inheritance. It was a trial from 1880 in New York City. The judge ruled that the grandson was not able to claim his inheritance after such offenses. duh. But then, of course, it took about an hour to explain the philosophy behind it. Including the differences between policies, rules, and principles. ok well you are probably so bored by now...

After class I enjoyed the afternoon at the beach. It was perfect. I took my new beach bag, a blanket, and my Bible. God and I had a date. I do have to admit, I did take a nap on the beach. It was about a 20 minute walk. (I was suppose to be looking for a job, just like right now :) )

Then this evening. Rachel came home, got to meet her old room mate Ali, she is sweet, a potential new friend :). Rachel had some more great stories from her day. (she always has the best stories!) Then we headed off to a suburb (I think) for supper. We were invited by the Penley's for supper. They are a couple that Rachel met because the husband, Paul, is a professor at Moody. Christy, his wife, made an amazing supper and we spent the rest of the evening just chatting about everything. Paul, is hilarious and so is Christy and they have a little baby Soran, almost 13 months, beautiful blonde little boy! (Kyle H, I thought of Brodey). so precious.

First Blogging Experience.

So. I always said I would never have a blog and here I am starting one.

I am current a full time student at Loyola University in downtown Chicago. Crazy. I never imagined God would bring me here, but then there have been many experiences God has brought me to and through in my life.

School is going good. I have a lot of classes that are looking at politics and then a class about Philosophy of law. Very different studying compared to my Sign Language at ICC. So far, so good though.

Residency: you should all come up and see me and my great room mate when ever you can. My room mate is Rachel Monfette. She graduated from Moody Bible Institute this past spring and is now working there full time. She is such a blessing. I did not know her very well, (met her maybe twice) but we get along so well (at least for the 4 days we have lived together). I moved all my stuff in yesterday. My dad and all my wonderful siblings and all my stuff (which included our dining room table and 2 chairs) squeezed into a minivan. Claire got to sit in the middle of the captain seats. We tried to make her a comfy seat but apparently it didn't work. After we got everything unloaded we went out to eat. Scott and Neal came up to the city and helped me move in and went out to eat with us. Then Scott headed to New Jersey (hope he made his flight).

Location: Our apartment is very close to Moody on Superior and La Salle. This is also close to school for me. I mainly go to the downtown school which is a 7 minute walk, but do go to the North Shore campus 2 times a week which includes traveling on the red line for about 45 minutes. Our apartment is in a fun little 4 story building with a flower shop on the courner. It is pretty quiet around here except in the nights they are doing construction on the building next to us. It sounds like they are shattering pounds of glass into a dumpster. We don't really know what they are doing, but it is really loud.

Previously: I started out, my first week of school, living with Boyd and Lois Metzger, they are from Chicago church. I had the best time with them. Such an hospitable couple. Lois took me with her nephew, Darin to the Shed Aquarium one day and one day we went to the beach. Then on Thursday, Maggie came into town and we went to a few fun museums, Chicago Cultural Museum, The Art Museum, and a fun little Cafe' for lunch. Friday Julie Herold came into town and we went to a fun little pastry shop and shared a fruit/blueberry tart.

Well I am going to let this be all for now, although I do have some good stories from my travels home this past weekend. I will save them for later though. That's all for now...