Just Passing Through, but Full of Adventures

2 Weeks n' counting

2011-09-24T13:19:00.002-05:00

Adjusting here in Leo is going great. I really enjoy the work and the people. I do miss the people I am use to seeing daily and enjoying in Chicago but I look forward to keeping in touch as life is all about changing, adjusting, but staying focused on the Spirit, Son, and Father. I have started a Bible study around Acts which has impressed upon my heart the ability and the beauty of the Holy Spirit that lives within me by no work of my own but by the blood of Jesus Christ!

in other news... Ahhh The marathon is 14 days away! Kind of crazy... well actually REALLY crazy. Today I went out for a 13 miler. (which I ran as a mini marathon event here in Fort Wayne. It was a good way to see a little bit of downtown). Weather was great and I really enjoyed the run. I made a new PR (personal record) which is always a bonus.

It is cool the impact running has had on my life and my discipline. Through running I am supporting an orphanage in India, with your help, known as As Our Own (). I would really love to reach my goal. I am at about the halfway mark with 2 weeks left. Please consider supporting me in this race by donating to As Our Own through

Settling In...

2011-09-16T21:16:00.002-05:00

SO I am moved to Leo, IN. I have changed my driver's license and gotten a license plate on a car (which I haven't owned a car in like 3 years!!)IT'S OFFICIAL. I passed the written driving test and finally got everything to change over the title - thanks to my cousins I didn't breakdown at the driver's place because of a "few bumps".

work... I am loving it. I am working with families in a home based program where I am going out into people's homes and trying to support families and help in reflecting on valuable parenting skills and life skills. I am also working wtih adoption. I have worked with 3 families so far and have loved them so much! Their stories are all so unique; I am looking forward to writing a homestudy in the next few weeks (which is pretty much like a 10 page biography on a family)

socially... I am so blessed. I jumped right into feeling at home here. I enjoy my roommate although haven't seen much of her the past 2 days. I have been babysitting for friends and spending a lot of time with friends and family out here. The challenge is not to crowd the Lord out as Satan would love me to do TOO MUCH (even if it is all good things)

running... it has been great to see how God is using this for His glory. I am feeling the sunlight coming later in the morning but have been able to stay on top of my runs and enjoy the crisp mornings. I have been enjoying running with a few friends here in Leo, Biking with a friend, and running with my cousin's dog :). Even this evening someone asked if I would want to bike with them sometime this coming week. It is interesting to see how exercising can be contagious and I am excited for that.

Visiting the City - I am looking forward to leaving for Chicago tomorrow morning. It is time for the dreaded 20 miler so I am going back to the Lake to run it. I am looking forward to the farmiliar chicago skyline and the fellow runners and bikers on the trail.

speaking of running. Another reminder that I would love it if you want to support me in my run by donating to As Our Own (http://asourown.org/take-action/what-you-can-do/your-team)

And here is the site to donate --->
http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/kaitlyn-isaia/chicago-marathon-2011

Change...

2011-08-10T17:31:00.002-05:00

I look forward to change and newness Indiana will braing, but there is a lot I will miss about this city, about this little flower shop apartment, about my biking to various cafes and different events or work, I will miss the people that have invested in my life and have encouraged so much growth and freedom in my walk with Christ. I will miss the lake to run along, and my running partner. I will miss my local grocery store - Stanleys. My favorite ice cream shop - Margies. My starbucks baristas who can tell me my hair looks fine even after I randomly chop off 10 inches! I will miss my babysitting kids that have poured so many hugs and love into my heart. I will miss the community that has come beside me and has taught me to love and be in community. I will miss the individuals here that have encouraged me to really love God with my whole mind. (not that I won't come see and keep in touch with my Chicago friends it will just be different)

But I look forward to loving the open air, to enjoying the quietness of cornfields again. I look forward to learning how to apply the skills I have learned in school for God's glory. I look forward to learning to run long miles somewhere in Indiana. I look forward to having a car to my name. I look forward to applying the things I have learned spiritually about God and His kingdom in a new location, I look forward to developing new, life-changing friends and growing the ones I already have. I look forward to being used in whatever ways the Lord can dream up. I look forward to visiting the city. I look forward to cheaper or no taxes on various items! I look forward to living with in 5 miles of my cousins!!!

"O taste and see that the LORD is good: blessed is the man [or woman] that trusteth in him" Psalm 34:8

It's blog official...

2011-08-10T17:19:00.004-05:00

HOT OFF THE PRESS... not yet on facebook but "on the blog" :) I am officially moving from the city in the next month. I have been blessed to be joining the case-management office team at Gateway Woods in Ft. Wayne, IN (well technically Leo, IN).

I will be working with the home-based team to begin with and may have the opportunity to be flexible and get to know a few other areas. It will be a great experience and I am sure it will come with it's downs and ups but in the end I know God is good and He won't take me from good to bad. Knowing how much I have enjoyed and grown in this time in the city makes it hard to leave but I believe the Father, Son, and Spirit are constant and will continue to refine me and allow me to love on life in the meantime!

I am leaving the city Sept 1st and start my new job around the 6th. I will be living with a friend from high-school and look forward to getting know her better - nope, still don't have my own room but I don't mind sharing space. :)

The Lord has been taking me on a journey with this decision. It has been coming for a few months. I had another job offer here in Chicago, which would have been an AWESOME experience also, with christian co-workers and living with 2 great friends maybe in Little Italy area. I had both offers during the same time and it was hard to put finality on this decision but I feel the Lord was quietly speaking peace into my desire to work at Gateway. I don't know if it will be forever but it will definitely be a new season.

Training - Please consider joining me

2011-07-21T10:59:00.002-05:00

So life is crazy right now but one thing that is constant is the the Lord and His grace and provision. I am facing taking on the responsibilities of a full time job in the near future and I am sure I will post more about that later.

Mainly I would like to use this post to create awareness around another constant in my life... MARATHON Training. I have chosen to participate in the October Chicago Marathon. Along with that I would like to raise funds and awareness for an organization called As Our Own. You can check them out at asourown.com. My fundraising page is http://www.firstgiving.com/fundraiser/kaitlyn-isaia/chicago-marathon-2011. On there I have more information about how to give and what it is going towards "Operation Schoolbook".

I would like to start raising funds now because I am doing a program (Hal Higgins) and tomorrow I am going out at 5:15am to run my long run for that week. I pray this time is a glory to the Lord and I find encouragement knowing I am running for a greater cause. Please prayerfully consider joining me with prayer, encouragement, or supporting As Our Own.

I will keep you posted on training (I am running with my friend Natalie up here so that is a great help) and also catch you up on other parts of my life soon,

The Lord is good and His mercies are perfect.
Thanks.

Where did May go?...

2011-06-01T15:16:00.002-05:00

Well to Graduation weekends. Good weather, bad weather, and perfect weather. In the month of May I...

(1) started biking the city - I have always wanted to bike in the city and now I have, yesterday I biked up to Montrose Harbor (about 6 miles north or my apt) it was a beautiful day and I enjoyed every minute - except a few times I was scared the wind was going to blow my bike and me over :0) and I also bike to work!!

(2) walked in a Graduation - I didn't walk for my Associates or my Bachelors but did for my Master's. It was a wonderful weekend (- the weather). Both of my grandma's came up for it. I got to ride up with them and we stopped at cracker barrel on the way up - our waitress actually started crying when she heard that both my grandma's were going to be there for my graduation day - which was so special. I also had some good friends willing to sit through the hour and 1/2. It was a fun day full of friends and family.

(3) started to meet with a group of women here in the city on Tuesday nights. It has been wonderful to study the word together and get to know some more christians here in the city. This weekend we are going to an art fair and grilling out on Saturday.

(4) went to a Turkish festival at Daley Plaza which means summer is here and the festivals are coming back in full swing!

(5) started getting serious about running - I start official marathon training next week! My friend Natalie has been getting up with me around 5:45 to get our runs on! I love it once we are out - but I couldn't get up and motivated without her.

(6) Maggie and I have been enjoying this beautiful weather. Last night we went on a walk for a little over an hour - running into a guy trying to get TV reception on the sidewalk - he had a fairly large TV and was using an outlet that is used for Christmas lights in the winter (but it didn't last long soon the security guard had to ask him to move...)

(7) Finished another Science Project with one of the kids at our after school program. Every year it always creeps up on us and this year we tried to get the project moving sooner but sure enough a few days after it was due (TJ was able to get an extension) we were rushing to finish it up. I figured out I am not a science fair teacher... I can help put together but the actual meat of the project - NO THANK YOU :)

(8) discovered a fro-yo (frozen yogurt) place near our apt - so we are done with the cupcakes for the year time for the Frozen yogurt! I'm excited to check out some of the fro-yo places here in the city - possibly bike up to them!

(9) I was going for 10 things but I'm done so ... otherwise just enjoying the city - not sure about what is going to be happening in the next few months. I only have 3 more days with Cameron (this week and next) and a week in Florida visiting my Aunt!! I'm really excited to spend some time with her and on the beach!

Trusting in God's might and power and knowing He will speak but not sure how and when. Until then I continue to learn of His power and love in my life. I pray I can continue to share that no matter where I am.

Wrapping it up...

2011-04-27T15:37:00.002-05:00

So I started this blog about 2 1/2 years ago as I was heading up to Chicago unaware at how this city and the people in it would turn me into a "city girl", by God's grace I was able to enjoy the change although not all my memories are perfect but the majority are and as I am finishing up with my Master's I am strongly thinking of staying in the city...

Yes. I am finishing my "college years" AH!! I have one more presentation tomorrow and a potluck in my second class. I will be walking out of Loyola tomorrow around 2:00 pm never to return as a student... (yep I have one friend doing his doctoral studies and that is enough to scare me away from that idea forever :) )

so the infamous next question... "What are you doing after you graduate" well I will still be nannying with Cameron part time until June 13th after that the sky is the limit. I had an interview last Thursday for a foster care case manager. I left that meeting a little overwhelmed about the idea of working a full-time job. I mentioned to one of my social work friends that I was looking at that position to which they replied, "Once you do foster care casework, you'll feel like you can do anything!!!" I think that was suppose to be an encouragement :) Also in the interview I was asked how I deal with stress to which I replied, "well I don't get stressed much... [but made up a few coping skills like running, socializing, taking a time out]" After he described the work I would be doing and that I would start with hours that might reach up into 60 hours a week and involve people, courts, and other systems unsatisfied with my work, lots of paper work and driving; I realized I may learn a whole new meaning to the phrase "you're stessin me out".

Otherwise the city is killing me with this gloomy weather although good for runs if it isn't raining. oop Cameron's up. Will write more later.

More from the North Pole

2011-02-11T15:55:00.007-06:00

Monday Val went into work for the morning and then enjoyed the Visitor's Center with her friend Maria. A visit to the Fudge pot and some wonderful blueberry fudge.... yum. In the evening Val and Maria went to a meeting and I was able to spend some precious time with my new friend and sister in Christ Cherie. She is a wonderful mother of 2 children, Gabi and William along with a faithful wife of Adam who is currently training in Arizona. It has been an experience to live with these women who have come to love their husbands and be loved as Christ loves the church but then have them taken for months or more than a year a time in the name of America. The sacrifice these women experience is great but to see God's hand and way He strengthens these women is also a testimony to me. It has been a gift to be here with them and get to know their hearts.

Tuesday involved a visit to Santa Clause's house (which happened to be closed but no worries I got a good picture with the BIG guy - biggest Santa Clause in the world - and saw the reign deer :) )

Wednesday we got to introduce Sushi to Maria and Cherie - there was a fun place in Fairbanks. Val enjoyed the rest of our evening just relaxing playing some Monopoly deal, watching Despicable Me (so cute by the way), and making some delightful good (avocado salsa, spinach quiche, and bread pudding with a carmelly sauce :) ). And we got to go on a dog sled ride in Fairbanks! It was so majestic and beautiful! The lady that gave the tour was a blast to talk with. We talked most of the ride. It was a beautiful day and a light snow started as we ventured out on the trails.

Thursday I was able to join Val on post with a Women's ministry to the wives of Army men. It was a great time of prayer, worship, and truth based on Jonah - what a rich illustration of the need to pursue God's direction in our lives. Also enjoyed the infamous Cookie Jar - another cute restaurant in Fairbanks. And finished the evening with some wonderful homemade oil sauce pizza, left over bread pudding - yum - and the movie "Life as We Know It" <-- I would highly recommend this movie - super cute chick flick :)

Signing off for now. 2 more days and then heading back to Chicago where I hope it is warming up!!

Going Dog sledding!!!

2011-02-09T12:58:00.001-06:00

We are going dog sledding this afternoon!!! Can't wait. I will catch you all up when Val is at work tomorrow afternoon - stayed tune for pictures and memories to come...

2 posts in one week!!

2011-02-07T01:09:00.005-06:00

This past week was full of adventures. Monday presented itself with many threats of a storm coming to Chicago. And it did come! 20 inches or so fell within the 24 hours between Tuesday afternoon and Wednesday morning. There also was thunder and lightening in the midst of it all. It was absolutely incredible. I did not go out in it (much to my Grandmother's appreciation - although there were a few times I almost got the spirit to venture to the lake). One of my friends went out to the lake in the blizzard and at one point said the gusts of wind were so great he couldn't move forward. I went out after it settle around 11:00pm. Then on Wednesday Maggie and I ventured out and got some fun pictures.

Thursday was pretty calm. My morning class was cancelled and I geared up to head for Alaska! I left for Alaska on Friday. Left from Chicago around 3:45 pm. Arrived in Seattle 6:10 had a lay over till 9:30. Got into Alaska around 12:45am (which felt like 2:45 central time). Val picked me up! On our way home the Aurora was so incredible. Val said it was the most beautiful display of the lights she has ever seen. As one of my friends said, it is like the sky was dancing. It was an incredible shade of green and at one point we even saw some red and pink and then they would move - wow. how creative Lord!

Saturday we ventured out - found me camera, ID, credit cards, transportation cards which I had dropped in the snow in my excitement of the lights the night before. Praise the Lord we found them all just where I had gotten out of the car. My camera was even in good shape. We then went to the Chowder house for some chowder (salmon) and visited the pipe line. Saw the mountains. Got to hang out with some of Val's friends here.

The days are longer than I expected the sun coming up around 10:00 setting around 5:30 but the sun never gets very high but it is still fairly bright. It makes for beautiful color in the sunsets and sunrises.

Today's super bowl involved about 8 ladies, commenting on the football players hair. watching the "puppy bowl" on animal planet during the half time. 4 of the ladies got out their crochet projects. and not a lot of the game watching, but the food was excellent which is the importance of the superbowl :)

Looking forward to many more adventures here with Val and the Alaska :)

Almost February, I know...

2011-01-31T15:31:00.002-06:00

So how do I catch up from Nov till now???

Started my last semester in School. (Ending on March 14th at 6:30 - Graduation!!!). Kind of crazy to think about.

Loving living here in Chicago - My roommate Maggie and I are getting along just great. She is such a blessing and safe place in my life. Two of my friends recently (well since I last blogged) moved about a mile away (Caleb and Livy Zobrist). I have had some fun times with them - including some crazy x-box game that doesn't have controllers but reads your body movements - visit to Molly's cupcakes. Scarey Halloween movie. and a few trips back and forth from the central illinois. Caleb was looking at moving to Chicago when I first moved up in '08. It didn't work out then but it is incredible to see how God works and has brought them up here now. Livy is a good friend of mine from elementary school and since.

Maggie and I are exploring the city and the States. In December, we were able to visit Phoenix which was a great time for both of us. We got to see all our good friends in that area (Maggie had worked out there for a few months when she was a traveling nurse). We are working on visiting the top 15 cafes in the city and have been enjoying some great brunch places on the weekends.

New years came and went this year - I did go see the fireworks here in Chicago. (although I was not happy they were so late. Really 10:00 pm would have been much better than midnight : ) ). I had a few wonderful girls from central illinois in the area which was such a blessing that weekend (Polly, Lisa, Alyssa, Jenna, and Leah - they stayed in a hotel not my apt).

Bears did not make the Super bowl - big surprise - I really thought they might though this year "welp. There is always next year :)"

My sweet friends Dani and Daniel were here from Texas for the weekend. It was wonderful to get a chance to catch up with them (sometimes I wonder why God connects us with people so wonderful but SO far away :( )

Tomorrow... I am going to be signing up for the marathon here in Chicago! I am going to be partnering with a local church and raising funds for world vision. Check later for a link and you can challenge me in my training and possibly donate yourself. This is an opportunity I have been praying for. Running has been a wonderful opportunity for me in many ways. I have had the chance to run socially which is great. Also have watched my dad start running and been encouraged by his disciple and hope to some day run a 5K with him. Also it is a time for me to spend with the Lord and in the quit of Chicago along the lake or other places in the US (California, Florida, Phoenix, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana all places I have enjoyed runs - not races necessarily). Also this summer running was a part of my ministry with the girls and also I am looking at running with "Back on my Feet" when the weather gets warmer - which is an association which runs with those who find themselves homeless for a season and works on getting them "back on their feet" through job training and awareness. who knew someday running would be such a big part of my life.

well I'll let this be the update for now and try to keep up a little better. Snow storm on the way and then on Friday I head up to the north pole!! For real :) I'm going to see Santa Clause - also going to see my friend Val (whose real address is the north pole a little south of Fairbanks Alaska)

update on the month

2010-10-29T22:32:00.002-05:00

a few of the adventures this past month's journey included...
- my aunt Donita came up to visit - she herself is a social worker and it was great to get a chance to hash over some of the clinical stuff. She went to a few of classes with me which was really fun to share that with her.
- my good friends Natalie, Bethany, and Traci all came in one weekend. It was so much fun. we went to this great ice cream place and just enjoyed each other's company. That weekend was also the Chicago marathon - a few of my good friends ran it - this year it was pretty hard due to the hot weather. Joe brought home some good stories :).
- I had one week that was almost completely free - 2 days off with Cameron and 2 days of school off. I didn't really do much but enjoyed every moment of the relaxing time.
- got together with my good friend Marcy in Geneva a few Tuesday nights (she was up in Dekalb auditing but now is finished! good for her - sad for me)
- ah!!! my Detroit 1/2 marathon :) best run I have run yet! It was perfect weather. Beautiful route - we crossed the bridge into Canada while the sun was rising - I enjoyed it enough I am considering doing the full Chicago Marathon next year... I went out with my cousins David and Traci and got to stay and see briefly my friends Amber, Joel, and Liam!
- last weekend was great. got to spend some time with my friend (not roommate anymore) Rachel - tastee freeze - yum! and Sunday enjoyed spending time catching up with my friend Cori and neighbor Natalie made supper :)

in general - baby is doing better. still only 30 minute naps but I know the Lord won't push me too far so I keep trusting in Him when I get frustrated. I have a run with Natalie next weekend (my mom, uncle, sister, and brother are coming)- hot chocolate 15K. Loving my roommate Maggie - we have so much fun (or at least I think we do) Looking forward to seeing some crazy costumes this weekend in the city. ok time to sleep.

This past weekend!!

2010-10-01T10:14:00.002-05:00

This past weekend was one of my favorite weekends in the city. Full of sweet fellowship and opportunities to explore God's truth, judgement, and ultimately be reminded that His ways are not my ways and I can never understand Him fully (Isaiah 55:8-9) but He does desire a relationship with me and He wants me to Trust Him (Proverbs 3:5-6). Zephaniah 3:17 "The Lord your God is in your mist, a mighty one who will save, he will exalt over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing."

Last weekend I started Friday night with some homework at Starbuck's. Then headed over to a ministry opportunity Moody Grad program was involved with in the city. I more observed different street outreaches. It was a good time for me to reflect on my personal thoughts about spreading the love of Christ and the Truth of salvation. Saturday I spent the morning with ladies from church. We shared blessings from the Lord and how we are to use those blessings for God's glory. Saturday afternoon I had tea in china town with my dear friend Tricia Leman from home who just recently started a TA position in China town. It was so good to catch up, although I hope it doesn't go another 3 years before we do it again :). Saturday evening I got to spend with Rachel (my old roommate). We spent about 3 hours at Ihop. It was so wonderful. Lots of laughs but also again opportunities to sort through hard stuff and come to the conclusion that God is in control and prayer is powerful, NOT A LAST RESORT! Saturday night Joe stopped by and we worked on analyzing some statistic info from the Moody out reach (because they had people work on surveys), that was interesting for once in a while but reminded me I am in the right profession (PEOPLE :) - although I do like numbers and their concreteness)

Sunday my aunt came into town we grabbed lunch at a cute Mexican place and then worked on some homework. Around 7:30 I had tea with my neighbor Natalie - it was nice to have a break (and my roommate was home doing nursing jobs so she can pay rent... Maggie has been home 2 days out of the last 10 days). This week nothing too excited. Good runs with Natalie. Joe joined us Monday. Baby is doing good. I enjoy coming to work. Aunt Donita came back into town Wednesday which was really great to have her around. She just did life with me. Helped me prepare for a presentation I had last night, went to 2 classes with me and went with Joe and I to the after school program. Enjoyed some good eats of course sharing and coupons are the Marti way. :)

This morning the sky was so beautiful. Natalie and I ran a little further than the last few runs so we ran along the lake. It was around 6:00 so the sun was not up but wow the sky was a beautiful deep blue in the north and directly east it was starting with the pinks and orange - oh colors. (not to mention when we started the run we could still see the moon and STARS - I saw Orion this morning).

ok almost done - going home tonight to celebrate my mom's birthday tomorrow and my sister's birthday (which was the 29th) - can't wait. I don't think I have been home since I moved up here. baby awake. no time for proofing hopefully not too many mistakes...

Settling in...

2010-09-24T16:09:00.002-05:00

Here is a typical week in the life of Kaitlyn...

Monday/Wednesday & Friday -
5:45 get up run with Natalie - my neighbor
7:30 (hope to get to my "Baby Cameron") I babysit for a 3-month old baby-boy - if I keep up with this I am sure you will read lots more about him and I will hope to get some pictures posted up here too! :)
5:30 get off work.
7:30 every other Monday night I have Bible Study with some ladies up here we are reading a book together on Gratitude.

Tuesdays
8:30-2:00 class (with a 1/2 hour lunch break between the 2)
4:00 I am still babysitting a few hours to keep up with my "little" B who is Loving school and getting not-so-little anymore.

Thursday
11:30-2:00 class
4:00 ish Project education Plus with Joe- an after school program I have been involved with for about 2 years (he has been there a while longer). Although the last 3 times we really haven't seen many of the kids, but it is good to catch back up with Lynette (she is the one that keeps the place going).
7:00 class till 9:30

weekends - well it is anyone's guess. I have gone out to the suburbs. Gone on a few long runs. had some company. I don't know where my weekends go. Gone out to Leo. Hung out with Rachel and other friends.

Big news in the city?! Every time I go over to little B's it seems like there is a new animal in their park - wild mind you... An alligator was spotted several times near their complex (which is right on the Chicago river) and then this past Tuesday there was a coyote Christina was telling me about. When I was leaving I got to see it, just sitting up on the hill like it owned the place - and apparently the city reported it is not going to intervene... ok, seems a little dangerous to me.

I met a politician Gary Johnson who is considering running on the Republican ballot for Presidential candidate for 2012. I was babysitting for a family who happened to host a breakfast for the man and a few other friends - look at me :). I was "the nanny" but I still felt cool. Seems like a pretty legit platform too. who knows where he will get though.

typical grocery shopping. Go to Trader Joes. (all I want is Greek yogurt). check out all the prices and decide Jewel's was cheaper - only a few blocks- so I go over to Jewel only to find the stuff at Trader Joe's was cheaper - and did you know olive oil at Trader Joe's is cheaper than any at Jewel too! oh the things you learn while grocery shopping. I love it so much but I am not the fastest shopper by any means.

so tonight's to do list:
- get Greek yogurt - which my dad and sister tried but hated because I think they tried it plain it definitely needs fruit...
- stop at Fleet Feet and check out some new running shoes - haven't bought shoes since I started running in like Feb '09 it's probably about time and I need to get them soon so they are broken in by the half in Detroit.
- return some library books
-do homework at Starbucks (last night I went to bed at 10:45 - which was nice but not for getting homework done) and my neighbors Mark and Tek (who took Joe's place) are working so that is always a pleasure!

Life is good. Biggest thing on my mind and heart right now is learning to be a Follower of God in the image of Christ as my first occupation, not social work or the busyness that Chicago offers. I can't get consumed by myself and accomplishing things but desire to be challenged to be His accomplishment! That was really short and condensed but I can't make this too long. I'll try to check in a little bit more now that I may have some nap times to work with here while babysitting (always love putting off homework) :)

I'm still Alive!!! :)

2010-08-27T13:58:00.002-05:00

I could read old posts all day :). It has been about 2 years since I have moved up here to Chicago. It is fun to read about the first few experiences here and see how God has worked in it all. I do enjoy it and this week has been a good starter week.

I saw my diploma last week (it had been sent to Roanoke). So that was cool. I have my BSW (Bachelor of Social Work) from Loyola. Tuesday I start my final year of my Master's program. I am taking 5 classes on Tuesdays (2 classes) and Thursdays (3 classes). I really like my schedule. I just have one evening class and I won't be working evenings anymore.

AHH my job. - glory be to God - for this opportunity! This summer I had left my schedule open to work with my 3 1/2 boy that I have been working for, Brian, since I came to the city, BUT he is going to preschool in the fall (as in Monday!) so I realized that would not work out; 3 days later I got a call from Melanie (she had heard from some church people I was looking for a job). She has a 3 month old baby boy - Cameron - that needs a sitter Monday, Wednesday, Fridays from 7:30-5:30!! Perfect hours with my schedule and I will still have evenings open :). I don't start til Labor day.

This week I came back up with my "neighbor" Mark (who now has a car in the city) on Monday morning, went right to Little B's house and have worked for him this week. He is talking in much larger phrases. He can now identify lots of flower names (hydrangeas). umm... he has had some really precious quoteables but I always forget to write them down.

Maggie is my roommate (which I ironically talked about on my first blog post which is interesting). We haven't had much time together yet due to our schedules (me working and she headed on vacation for the weekend) but I look forward to living with her. She isn't too intimidated by the apartment size seeing she lived on a boat (the Mercy ship) for the past 5 months - i think.

Today I am babysitting a beautiful 6 month old baby boy Titus. He has been an angel. Tonight a bunch of friends are coming into the city for birthday celebrations (Happy Birthday Scott!). Tomorrow morning I am hoping to run up the lake to Loyola (about 8 miles- I am training for Detroit's half). I have always wanted to do that run and I can pick up my U-pass on the way back. I am also house sitting all weekend (so lots of dog walking but a beautiful house. Cori is coming to visit me after I have a wedding on Saturday and Sunday hoping to see Tyler Thompson and his new abode with Cori in Wayne, IL. :) I'm sure I could write tons more about this summer but will try to write smaller posts to catch you up on Summer posts.

That's all for now.

oh and I am hoping to start an HERB garden :) (this sounds very exciting to me anyway)- Traci is going to bring me some dirt tonight - funny the problems I have in the city - I can't just go dig up some dirt for my herbs.

I travel to Mexico Bound from Leo

2010-07-15T12:03:00.003-05:00

Oh my word... a whole month has come and gone. Don't have time to catch you up but do ask for prayers for this coming week. Sat 16th I leave for Madelena Mexico with a group from Chicago. We return the next Saturday around 6:00 pm. I am coming and going from O'Hare so I get a chance to catch up with my Chicago people too! I miss the city. that's all for now.

Thanks.

I take pictures in Leo!!

2010-06-07T22:57:00.004-05:00

Olivia and I getting ready to make some wonderful German Chocolate Cake!

Fixing my brakes!! They are so much better. thanks Tyler! it's a wonder what 2 new sets of break pads and a new rotor will do.

Caitlin Long here from Hungary!

Mindy and I showing off our CPR and First Aid certifications. (Victoria Stoller was here this week too!)

Dani and I before heading to Leo church.

I see Stars in Leo

2010-06-07T22:36:00.004-05:00

This past weekend was great. Some of my dearest friends from Phoenix came to Leo. My friend Abby is staying for the summer. Amy headed back to Phoenix this evening and Tyler leaves the Leo area tomorrow. None the less while they were here (they got in on Saturday) I enjoyed so many great moments with them! I also got to host my friend danielle Weuthrich for the night Saturday night (she was passing through on her way to Bluffton for a wedding. Also this weekend 2 of my good friends were announced. Congrats to Charla and Brad and Kirby and Ellie! Love them all (don't know Brad too well yet but hope to by the end of the summer).

Sunday Schumachers (were I am staying) was generous enough to let everyone come over here for supper where we got together a great grilling out Sunday afternoon dinner of hotdogs and hamburgers. My dad would have been proud (he has taught me well and Jeff and Tina and Olivia were super helpful too). It was a beautiful day and we enjoyed just hanging out and taking some great pictures.

Tina and I scooping ice cream

my phoenix crew!

Amy and I made the salad with HOMEMADE salad dressing

Today was great to spend the morning with Amy and Abby. Afternoon in the waiting area for court mainly (the actual hearings are really short but they tell everyone to come at the same time and our cases were pretty much last!) There has to be a more productive way of executing this procedure - should have gone into paralegal I could fix this whole process - ha nah. Took Amy to the airport. Sad, although she did get to fly though Chicago and told me my city says hi. (I'm not going to lie I kind of miss it and can't wait to stop in in July!)

Gateway had a game night and singing time. Cecily played the guitar and Seth played the jimbay (no idea on how to spell that). It was such a glory to worship together for the sole purpose of glorifying the Lord, no productivity involved, just pure worship and the opportunity to think of the aww of our great God. Following the singing Leo had a Bible Study. Joel stickling was the vessel tonight he really brought out identifying and casting out ideals - being willing to cast off everything and be sold out (highlighting Luke 5:1-11). He also played a short clip from Loui Giglio <- also don't know how to spell it. about the magnitude of the star - wow!! there are some BIG stars out there :) It was such a good reminder of the smallness of humanity, of ME. So tonight when I looked up at the stars for the first time since I have moved to chicago (that is one thing I don't miss - no stars in Chi-town.) I saw the largeness of my God! He is big and I am big IN HIM. So continue to pray for His glory and light to be the center of my everyday. Cause I can't and don't want to do this summer in myself. I want to continue to do it full of the triune awesome might Lord!

(PS so we went with a cowboy theme for girl's camp we are "standing firm" possibly a little far fetch - but hey who doesn't like a good cowboy?!)

I burn in Leo

2010-06-05T11:07:00.002-05:00

so 11:30-3:00 = Lobsterness :)

yesterday I had this brilliant idea to do my internship readings poolside. And it would have been perfect if I would listen to my mom and PUT ON SUNSCREEN. Nope I decided to just get as much sun as I can... well that sure back fired. I am not toasty and can't walk without pain especially upper legs and my back! Oh well it will all fade soon. I never remember how bad sun burns hurt while I am in the sun. (does this sound like sin? We know how to avoid it but in the moment it doesn't seem bad. so if anyone needs a Sunday school life lesson)

Other eventful happenings this week... We had two other volunteers out this week. Victoria Stoller and Mindy Cambell and that was a lot of fun. I learned how to play "spaz or crabs" it is like around the world ping-pong collides with Pool (I didn't do so hot and in turn didn't love my first experience).

Ashley, the other intern and I, offered to give swimming lessons to 2 of the Gateway girls :). Any suggestions on where to start? probably with treading water. possibly floating on their backs. I don't know - it is more for survival and safety than improving on skills.

Last night, Leo high school had a "coffee house" night. Each student in Jazz choir (maybe 20) performed a solo Jazz song. There was some real talent! I really enjoyed the pieces (well most of them).

And getting read for Jr. High girl's camp. Leaving Wednesday. Our cabin is Thessalonica... not really sure what to do with that (I'm not that much of a decorator to begin with I just like to run around and act crazy at camp). AHHH I am also giving my testimony - what an humbling opportunity. I think I am focusing on some main events in my life and bringing out the theme of "getting better or bitter" with God's grace.

well that is long enough for now.

I run in Leo

2010-05-29T14:37:00.003-05:00

So I have now conquered my second week in Leo. This week was great. Started out with fixing my brakes (my grandma was very happy to hear that one was accomplished:) ) thanks to one of my friends out here. I also have established a running area: not as good as along the lake in Chicago but it is a good start!

I have been enjoying my time out here. This week I experienced my first time in court, (I even got to speak: "no, your honor" when the judge asked me if I had anything to say). I had the opportunity to become familiar with the juvenile detention center. I saw kids in jump suits. yellow/orange jump suits. It was rather sobering. I believe this summer in general will be sobering.

One of the residents and I spent some time together this week told me about her life. When I compared it to the reports in her file I identified that it was all a fanciful lie. The saddest part is this individual has only remembered the good parts of relationships and can not see the hurt these people have caused in this individual's life. It is a reminder of the truth that if we lie to ourselves we may start to believe it and naturally lie to others. Pray for these kids.

In the evenings I have been enjoying time with Schumachers, Amy and Johnny, and the young group here! This week was the first week of volunteers which is always fun. Today I had the chance to catch up with family and a few friends but am looking forward to a rather quiet weekend and memorial day.

Ok no more rambling for now...

I live in Leo :)

2010-05-22T23:11:00.003-05:00

My first week out here after so many lasts up in Chicago it has been great to start the summer hear in Leo. I will try to post much more about how the summer is going and the encouragement working in a christian environment!! So far so good.

Today was great. I got my first run in Leo under my belt (I ran a local 5K). Olivia and I also made a wonderful German Chocolate Cake. Oh there was some yelling in the kitchen (mostly Olivia reassuring me that a double boiler would melt the chocolate just fine and I let her fight the battle of frosting and assembling the 3 layers.)

Today I realized how thankful I am to usually be an optimist but also recognizing the affect of assumptions. A friend randomly stopped in on their way through Leo. I was excited to catch up and felt loved that they wanted to stop by during their busy day... well later that day I was mentioning that I was excited my friend stopped by to "see me" to which someone joked " well maybe your friend just felt obligated to stop by because if they would not have, they might hurt your feelings."

As I thought about the 2 ways of looking at the situation I was faced with the honest truth that many people assume the worst. Many of my clients and society have seen the worst in people and believe that in every case. I pray in these 3 months God will give me the energy to model His Spirit and shine in lives that are surrounded by hut and defeat. I'm excited to learn and grow in these next months ahead.

well off to bed I go!! More to come later.

Weekly update

2010-03-24T14:19:00.002-05:00

Short and sweet.

I am going to be in Leo this summer! I am going to be living with Jeff and Tina Schumacher and their family. I am looking forward to that time. I will be working along side Charla in counseling but also may become familiar with other aspects of the program including foster care, adoption, home visiting. gatewaywoods.org

Roommate - Maggie Schenk is going to be living with me next year. I'm excited! I have two potential sub-leasers for the summer and if those 2 don't work I have another option.

CORI CAME TO VISIT. This past weekend was great. Cori and I enjoyed relaxing and little "B" time on Thursday and Friday. Thursday night we helped make Tortilla's which didn't work out perfect due to using baking soda verse baking powder (or the other way... I don't remember either way they tasted more like pretzels and didn't rise quite right always next time). Then Friday morning we took Joe to the airport (he headed off to visit friends in Connecticut). That was fun a 4:45 run to 7-11 got us up and awake. The cashier wished us a "good night". That is when you know you are up to early (we already had our night...).

Anyway Friday was beautiful (almost 70 t-shirt, flip flop weather) followed by Sat. snow. Sat Cori took me down to Central Illinois, got to have breakfast with my Grandma! I left my phone in Chicago (it was interesting living without it, I didn't realize what life was like before cell phone, you had to actually plan ahead :) )

Now back to the city. Rachel left yesterday for the week. Her sister is getting married (we went shopping and found some great shoes, ear rings, and a fun purse - she will be set.)

Egg dying and cookies with the kids that could be it's own post... we will see how this days goes. (Maybe I will get time for another more thoughtful post. don't count on it)

Off to more classes I go. (warning this was not proofed so take it for what was meant not necessarily what was typed.)

It's been so long I forgot my password :)

2010-03-17T15:47:00.002-05:00

ok well catch-up time.

well I was going to go month by month and try to do some highlights, but my memory doesn't go back that far. Since My calendar is with me we can highlight from Jan-current. (trust me that will be plenty if anyone still checks this :) )

December - I turned 23! That is fun. Went home for break (well 2 weeks). Christmas, New Years (at my dad's) the usual holiday stuff.

Jan - started out with a trip with my grandma to Florida. We had an awful time getting down there. It was a bitter cold morning. Started at the airport about 4:30 AM did not get to St. Pete's til 11:00 AM (the next morning) we could have driven faster. The weather was cold, but I did get a run in by the beach. The next day I felt so sick with a fever and exhausted... oops I don't think my cold liked the run. Anyway Gradma threatened not to let me go back home the next morning, but thanks to lots of vitamins and I am sure lots of her prayers I boarded the plane back to chicago to start the semester.

Feb - ran another 1/2 with my cousin Amy Klotzle. Again beautiful day (even got some rosy cheeks out of the deal). I ran the race about 15 minutes faster than my first 1/2 marathon. And Amy did really good herself, although we did split up for a little while. Oh wait. I didn't tell you WHERE the 1/2 marathon was. It was in LA California. Huntington Beach!! I got to stay with Suzy for a night in her dorm room. Sometimes I wonder why I never lived the "dorm life" - I would have loved it! Then a few days at Tom and Jody's - always a pleasure.

oh I got back into Survivor the TV show... oops I watched it one time when I was babysitting (he was taking a nap) I have been a faithful since. Although if they vote off Colby next week I am done!

Took some of the kids to THE Chicago Auto show... that needs a who blog post itself. 5 kids, 3 adults still equals chaos, but it was fun and all the kids got back home safely (mission accomplished).

2 snowboarding trips (one family, one friend) still in one piece.

A lot of changing and decision making going on over here. My roommate is possibly moving out the beginning of May, so I am looking for a new roommate. I am also looking at a summer - out-of-state internship at Gateway Woods which means I need to find 2 sub-leasers also. I applied for UIC's Master's of Social Work program. We will see if I get accepted and go from there on whether I transfer school. Also if I go to Gateway for the summer I will need a car for 3 months... So lots of opportunities to turn life over to God. I'm sure there is more and I will try to get more regular in this again! I need to get back to the homework although today I turned in a midterm, 2 papers, and a portfolio, so I should get a homework break (but I don't).

Weekend Outlook: Cori is coming to visit tomorrow night!!! I am so excited :). Traveling home then with her Saturday morning, just in time for breakfast with my grandma and my cousins from Indiana and Kansas will be there. Also hoping to check in with other friends on Saturday. Then back to Chicago on Sunday night. I am really looking forward to the weekend.

Almost a month has come and gone again!

2009-09-19T22:36:00.002-05:00

A month in one post :)

- 1/2 marathon is now on the "have done" list of things. It was a beautiful day. Traci ran with me and some great support on the side lines.

- I am 3 weeks into my internship. I am part of a after care program at Teen Living Programs. teenliving.org. I have been really enjoying getting to know the youth and the staff at TLP.

- I am in Roanoke right now. Traci let me drive her car home for the weekend. It has been so good to be with my family. Also got to spend the day with Cassie Bertsch! We went on a beautiful bike ride. Looking forward to Leah's wedding tomorrow.

- I am sure there is so much more to post about but I can't think of anything right now.

Back to the Good 'ole Days

2009-08-24T22:23:00.003-05:00

Well my roommate and I were listening to youtube videos. Music from Jr. High Days. Also "The Rye was found" come to find out you can get it at Jewel! Also we have seen it at Whole Foods. This is a follow-up to the previous post if anyone is confused!

So fun...

The other 6 weeks of my life has involved lots of fun here in the city and sometime at home in Roanoke area. Summer is now a thing of the past. I started classes today with an 8:15 Monday Social Work policy class (I may have to start drinking coffee). Tonight was a 6-9:30 Health Care Ethics class <-- that one should be an interesting class. Similar to my last semester's Philosophy class.

Wednesday I will be taking Graduate level classes!! Crazy huh... I'm growing up (or so my dad would yell as I am getting on the train to go back to Chicago, or maybe he did yell that yesterday as I was getting on the train to come back to the city :)

I also will be starting my internship at a location called Teen Living. (you can check it out on the net if you are bored teenliving.org <-- real original right :) ) I start Sept 1st (Happy Birthday Landon)

I will be staying with Brian but my other 2 babysitting jobs are not going to work out. This week is the last week I will be with Nick but I will definitely visit when I can. Marion's I finished our weekly visits last week.

So my schedule this semester (for Rachel mostly :), I will have to get you another color coated calendar):

Monday: 8:15-10:45 class
11:00-6:30 work with Little "B"
7:00-9:30 Class
Tuesday/Thursday:
10:00-6:00 Internship
Wednesday: 11:30-2:00 Class
3:30-6:30 Project Education Plus possibly (the after school program)
7:00-9:30 Class
Friday: 9:00-> work with Little "B"

Other news: Joe has a new roommate. Mark. <-- he is from Mackinaw so it is fun to be able to talk to someone from home area. He also knows how to make SUSHI and other fun foods. Good job Mark.

I am sure there is tons of stuff to catch up on but that just makes for a long post

Training for the 1/2 marathon on Sept 13.

ok that is all I have, I know. I know. 6 or 7 weeks of my life and this is all I got. ha Sorry!

Where is the Rye?

2009-06-30T14:32:00.002-05:00

Got a few more goals accomplished...

5) Go to Dance in the Park. Laura Barth-Romero and her hubby Dave came up Friday afternoon and Saturday. Friday night we went to Taste Of Chicago, enjoyed the food (something called Behl... I think maybe Indian food? not really sure. but it had like rice crispies?) After the tasting we headed over to Grant park and enjoyed some live salsa music. They have an outdoor dance floor pretty crowded but lots of fun.

9) Field Museum. Ben Funk had some free tickets to the Field Museum so a few of us (Scott, Neal, Ryan, Ben, Troy, Blake, Andrea, and I) enjoyed about 5 hours of the museum. Some of my favorites. the Pirate Exhibit, The mineral exhibit. The tropical exhibit and the Egyptian mummies, the plants, and the animals. Did you know mongos are in the same plant family that poison ivy is?!

Add To-Do list...

14) See Chicago's 3rd of July Fireworks

Father's Day was good. Dad, Claire, and Landon came up and had supper here in the chicago area! I love my family! VBS was so much fun last week. We had 4 - 3 year olds and 3- 5 year olds. They were so sweet. I got to teach about Noah's Arc and Daniel in the Lion's Den.

Otherwise... Last weekend Adam and Amy, 2 of my friends here in Chicago (Adam lived with Joe) got married Sunday. Rachel, Joe, and I took the South Shore Line Commuter Train out to the wedding in Chesterton, IN. It was lots of fun and good to spend time with Rach and Joe outside of the apt. Got back around 9:00 and enjoyed a walk back to the apt. Watched "Expelled" later Sunday night. It is a good documentary about intelligent design and evolutionist theories. I would recommend it to anyone interested in Science theories.

the Rye title... well Joe checked a few places for Rye flour but couldn't find any. I didn't think it would be that difficult, so Rach offered to google it... well come to find out, many people have blogged about the shortage of Rye in the City. lol. Just thought I would add it to the google Rye search results.

2009-06-17T13:50:00.002-05:00

Junior High Girl's Camp was this past weekend. The theme was "Swept Away by Jesus": we were the Mr. Clean Cabin! It was so good to be surrounded by Christians and youth and not the big city. I didn't wear shoes starting Wednesday night till Sunday. Man I miss that part of the country. (Although when I went on a jog yesterday my feet really hurt afterwards?..). Highlights of Camp...

1) The Worship (including but not limited to singing) I miss guitar singing every week...
2) Our Cabin Girls ROCKED. They were loving the speakers and seemed to really have open hearts to modesty and loving God and Choosing Him when making decisions. Also the girls did a great job of including each other!
3) The Food! Camp Food Rocks, pretty sure we were fed almost every 3 hours.
4) The lake and the Beautiful weather. We took the 90 + girls out to Norris (Herman's Lake) for a few ours on Friday. It was beautiful.

Well that is a small taste of camp life. Otherwise. Sunday was Kyra and Morgan's wedding. Beautiful day. I really appreciated their focus on Christ through the service. I have to admit seeing my friends from Phoenix and California was truly my highlight of Sunday. I just love Friends :)

Scott and Neal endured another ride up with me. This time I was exhausted for the weekend... but... they didn't make me walk so. Thanks boys.

Monday was work and catch-up day for Rach, Joe, and I. Yesterday was Grocery day. Joe came with us. His first Aldi experience (in the city at least) and first Stanley's experience.

Well I think that is it for now. I can't find my camera... I think I might have lost it a Girl's Camp. Sad, so spread the word if any one finds my red camera :). Next week I am teaching, with Betty, VBS for the pre-school age kids. Should be fun times. I am looking forward to it.

That's All Folks.

Weekend Fun

2009-06-01T13:03:00.002-05:00

Friday was enjoyable. It was full of babysitting little "B". Started at 9 and ended at 9. It was a beautiful day. We spend 4 hours outside and he still takes naps so that made a nice day for me. We went to the loop to run an erand, while we were on our way Joe texted me and let me know there was a Turkish festival in Daley Plaza so we stopped there on our way through. The arts and jems were beautiful. They also had some dancers and beautiful outfits! So that was accomplishing a little of #5 of my goals:).

Friday night my friend Val came into the city to visit! It was so good to have her here. We were able to play checkers on the beach (# 12) Traci we need to play chess on the beach <-- I always rememeber playing you at family get togethers with your chess set, which we were always breaking or glueing together :). Also went to watch fireworks on the Pier Saturday night! It was so good to have the opportunity to talk and hang out in the city with Val! I feel like we covered every subject from deep theological thoughts about our mighty God to the small influences of life.

Yesterday Val headed out on the train in the morning and I enjoyed a day of worship at church. In the after noon I went to the Lincoln Park Zoo with some friends. It was another beautiful day. Welp I am going to get back to work, Little Einsteins are done :)

The Month is Gone again.

2009-05-28T13:13:00.003-05:00

Once again the month is gone. It is the end of May and not much blogging so we will get to basics.

I am spending the summer in Chicago. Working with my babysitting jobs and tutoring.

I am looking forward to some down time here in the city. Since I have moved up here, it has been full of getting to know my school, finding friends, getting acquainted with the city, finding work, and falling into a "way too busy" lifestyle.

I have made a little list of summer goals and look forward to slowing down and prioritizing life. Here is a little preview of my goals. Not in any peculiar order.

1) Sit through a court hearing. I have heard you can go to the county court house and observe a trial.

2) Go to Pilsen and other diverse communities. Pilsen is a mainly Hispanic community and my friend Adam and his fiance will be moving there after they get married next month.

3) Ride the Ferris Wheel at Navy Pier.

4) Invest time with people on the street and those in different situations. (Pray for God's guidance in this area)

5) Dance in the Park (Rachel has talked about a little dance instruction in millennium park and some music) and different festivals.

6) Go to one of Nick's (the kid I tutor/babysit) baseball games

7) Go with Jayme to a taping of news ch 2 (Jayme is Nick's mom and she said I can come to work with her some time.)

8) Ride on the Yellow line of the El. (It goes out to Skokie and only runs at certain times)

9) Visit the Field Museum (only big museum here in Chicago I have not gotten too, I think.)

10) Watch fireworks at Navy Pier (they have them twice a week and I am going to be around for the fourth! so that shouldn't be difficult)

11) Play my guitar at a nursing home (I have to find one first :) )

12) Play chess or checkers with a friend on the lake front (there are permanent stone boards along the lake)

13) Make Sushi

That is all I can think of for now. Last weekend I went canoeing with my family and friends. It was such a fun time. (although I think I got sicker from it). Derek, Claire, and I were together in a canoe which was super fun. Claire was our emergency alarm. Anytime she saw a ripple she would scream and get scared. but we just had fun with it.

Landon ended up riding with Steven in a canoe which had previously got wrapped around a tree. They bent it back but still Steven had to bail the whole time while Landon rowed. Oh the memories. And one of our other canoes got caught in the current and a log and is still at the bottom of the vermillion.

I made fudge yesterday. well it was an adventure. Joe helped, but I still forgot 1/2 the ingredients. lol (I guess I can't multi-task that well-talk and cook). I only forgot a "dash" of salt and a little vanilla. Dad would have hated that recipe.

In the end, it tasted really good and I even turned a few into truffles. When I took it over the our after-school program Lynette (the lady in charge) hid the fudge in her drawer (I guess it was good)

Looking forward to my friend Val coming into town this weekend. Hope to keep more on top of this blog thing.

It's about time.

2009-05-03T14:51:00.002-05:00

Well the first school year at Loyola is wrapping up! I can't believe it! I have one last final Wednesday night.

Today is a beautiful day. (I should be typing this outside). I got up around 6:45 and prepared for a 4 mile race to support 4 organizations that support women's health here in the City. I did not expect to run the whole thing but wanted to support my friend Megan.

Well back up- Last weekend I ran a 5K with my cousin Traci. <--- this is an event I have been training for for about 2 months or so. The 4 mile race was a random suggestion Thursday night.

I was actually able to run both the 5K on the 25th and the 4 mile run today. It was a beautiful day and both races were run by the lake. That is my biggest accomplishment besides finishing school stuff!

Other news: This week was full of Friends. Last weekend Traci came in for her birthday and run the race with me. Tuesday one of my friends was here for a conference and we went to California Pizza Kitchen <-- good food. Wednesday I got to go to Moody's chapel. Thursday some friends from Tremont were here (Tyler Thompson presented a monologue drama of the Biblical story of Mephibosheth). Friday my friend Val came in and was here til last night.

Moody chapel: gave me a new appreciation of the past God has brought me through. Sometimes I get so focused on the future I forget to praise God for His presence in my past.

Yesterday we (Rachel, Val, Joe and I) took the after school kids Joe and I hang out with to fly kites. (17 kids+6 "adults"+a Chicago park full of a million kids=PANIC and craziness). It was a full day but so much fun. When we initially got to the meeting place there were no kids and then about an hour later there were 17!!! 4 2-year olds and a few other younger ones, but we came back with 17 and some great pictures and memories.

Here are a few pictures of the last week. Never mind, they won't upload. Maybe later.

It snowed again...

2009-04-07T20:49:00.002-05:00

SO... Sunday was like a sleety, snowy day. I really enjoyed my Sabbath, though. Saturday night I sang praises with some fellow brothers and sisters in Christ from Moody Bible Institute. It was a reminder of the Holiness of Sunday. ("Lady Sabbath" for all those who are familiar with Shiloh)

Saturday night I took a minute to read a paper my friend had written about Sundays and the need to keep them separate and holy. It is difficult when I am pulled from my home and have a million other things to catch up with. This Sunday though I made a special effort to reflect on the gift of Sundays. I was able to go out for breakfast with some ladies from church. Enjoy a day of fellowship and teaching at church. Enjoyed after church "snack" with my wonderful cousins and friend. Got a little nap and reading time in. Had a wonderful supper with some church friends. Safely made it back into the city. Chatted with my roommate and Joe and got to meet their friend. To wrap up the day Joe and I plotted to start a business because the government claims to give $50,000 for new business owners. :)

In reflecting on the day I praise God that he reminded me of His presence. I enjoyed the day and felt it was a good reflection of Heaven in the sense of community and fellowship. I can't wait to one day be able to talk and enjoy everyone's company FOREVER.

No more homework. No more cleaning. No more work.

No more insecurities. No more hurting hearts. No more petty over-analyzing moments. No more stressful relationships.

Just Jesus and me and all of my sisters and brothers. I don't even know what I will feel or how I will love and glorify our God, but I am Excited!

(playing on the radio is "Better is One day")

Amen Lord Jesus Come.

Happy Birthday Derek

2009-04-04T18:38:00.002-05:00

So what have I been up to for the last 3 weeks you ask?!

Well I got accepted in the BSW/MSW Program meaning: I will be finishing my Bachelors in the Fall but the classes will count towards my Master's degree and I will be completed by May 2011 with my MSW. That is excited.

Today was a beautiful day in the city. I took a jog to the beach this morning (I am training for a 5K I am running with Trace in 3 weeks). It was perfect. The sun was out and warm.

Then I spent a lot of the day cleaning. I enjoy it so much though, especially when I am putting off doing my homework :). It is such a productive activity and so much better than writing papers. I pulled out Scott's Dance Cd (number 4), gotta love some good techno, windows open, and the smell of pinesol and soft scrub in the air.

Tonight my room mate and I made a delicious supper if I do say so myself! It involved Salmon, rice, and corn muffins.

I recently discovered that my roommate didn't eat sea food because she was nervous to cook it, not because she didn't like the taste. So I have tried to learn a new skill and so far so good. I have no made a tasty Tilapia and Salmon. :)

Otherwise I really can't think of much else, the other day I went to Fleet Feet (it is a super store.). Margaret helped me find running shoes and analyzed my feet through watching me walk and run (although I didn't buy them because they were a little pricey). She even had me try on these socks made of Bamboo. They were $12/pair though, so I had to pass, although I have been thinking about them a lot since. How are socks made of Bamboo?

I really think that is all for now.

Lost Generation

2009-03-20T13:20:00.003-05:00

I know I haven't blogged in a while so I won't even try to catch up Nothing terribly new,

Trying to look into the summer, I will be in the city, just trying to figure out my babysitting hours.

I sent my Social Work Master's Application in on Wednesday. I am not really nervous. I made popcorn balls for Joe and I's after school program. <--- I have always associated popcorn balls with teeth falling out because once in Kindergarten my mom made them for the class and my tooth fell out in one and I swallowed my tooth, but I decided to conquer my fear and I think they were pretty good.

The reason for this post is I watched this youtube video and wanted to share it. It is less then 3 minutes but I think it is prfound. Enjoy...

www.youtube.com/watch?v=42E2fAWM6rA

Home Sweet Home

2009-02-23T21:34:00.002-06:00

Well last week was way too long ago so we will just start with this weekend...

I got the opportunity to go home to central this past weekend. There were some friends from Moody that convinced me to come home with them. I am so glad I did. God really used the the weekend to His glory! I was able to do my sister's hair for homecoming and get excited for my brother taking his girlfriend to homecoming. I know these seems like little things, but it was a time to show my siblings I love them and care about their lives. That is one thing about living away from home... I have to learn to communicate with my family in a whole new way.

Also 3 of my friends were baptized this weekend in Washington. It is always good to hear how God works in lives and to be encouraged in the basics of my own faith. I was able to see 2 of my great friends from Phoenix. I miss Phoenix. Also 2 of my good friends Livy Leman and Caleb Zobrist announced their engagement!!! Very Exciting!

I got to spend a lot of time just chilling with my dad and mom too, and my puppy dog!

Last night was hard coming back to the city. There is always a distinct feeling of sadness but peace. I love this city and I love the things God is doing in my life here, but I do miss growing with my family in everything they do.

Tonight was great. I enjoyed just chilling at the apartment. We went to 7-11 and got slurpees. Yum yum! Pina Coladas. so good.

Tomorrow is Paczki day?! well we (Rach, me, Joe, Tom, and Liz <-- I don't know who that is) are going to some Polish place to get these "Paczki" donut things. Leaving at 6:00 AM. I haven't gotten up that early in a while. So I am thinking about going to bed soon. The end.

10 days and no posts...

2009-02-15T21:28:00.006-06:00

SO sorry. Hope you are still alive and well. I know you are probably holding your breathe for the next post from me!!! :) well here it goes, you can all breathe again.

What have I done the last 10 days? Well I started yet another endeavor. I now volunteer at Catholic Charities, right across the street. It is such a good experience. I love the people I work with and I am able to help those who are "economically challenged" get food.

After school program: I made dirt cups for the kids, that was a first time recipe. It isn't too difficult :). The worst part was transporting them over to the program. Last week I made finger JELLO. That was also a first time. The unflavored gelatin does really help (they were heart-shaped for valentine's day). The kids loved them.

After last week I was kind of doubting my helpfulness at the program, though. I felt there were other opportunities for these kids to be learning. I expressed this concern to one of my friends. They encouraged me to keep being involved. They reminded me that ministry is not always "doing" but "being". Just being available to connect with the kids, even if it doesn't happen every week, is important. So I encourage you this week remember to truly be where God has placed you.

I got to run outside for the first time on purpose :D. I have started running on a treadmill but last weekend the weather was so beautiful I got to "take it outside". It is a different experience mentally and physically. I had some sore calf muscles! So Tuesday I decided I would run to work (I had read in Runner's World about a guy who runs 22 miles to work.) I can do 2. Well I didn't know exactly how to get to work on foot and ended up a little too far North, but it was funny. I want the 50 degree weather back :(!

Last weekend my Good friend Natalie came up to visit me. We got to spend time together Friday and went to a fun little Italian restaurant called Scoozi's. So good, and zero calorie bread (they were very proud of that). We then had the chance to go to Moody's Founder's Week and I got to see a bunch of other friends from back home.

ok... I am sure there is stuff I am missing but let's skip to yesterday. Rachel and I hosted a Velentine's Day party for the girls from Rachel's church. It was so much fun. It consisted of a lot of yelling and 8 girls (ages 2-10) running around the little apt. Lots of sprinkles on the floor from decorating cookies. We opened the sprinkles and they had no shaker top!!! A parent's worst nightmare. The girls left around 3:00. Rach and I cleaned up. We didn't do too bad. We sent one home without a sock (It was lost somewhere in the apt.) and one with her shoes on the wrong feet. Well what can we say... it was an experience.

Then in the evening I went out to Lincoln Square (such a fun area) and met up with Erica Sauder and Charla Zollinger. We went to Jack Rabbit and then got to see the film "Slum Dog Millionaire". I would highly recommend it. Finished off the night by joining some friends at "Shiloh" and sang praises to our Awesome God together. Life is good. My God is Love and I am in Love with Him. Until next post...

Too much

2009-02-05T17:20:00.002-06:00

Well here goes another "catch-up" blog.

Last weekend I got to head home for the weekend. Rachel, my room mate, went with me. Started out almost missing our train. 3 minutes later and I would not have made it home on Friday night. Next we got into Pontiac station 20 minutes early so I got to experience the arcade games for the first time. Bowl was a great success, much better than I do in person, but the Turkey hunting didn't go so hot. I went "hunting" twice and didn't shoot anything. The one time Rachel shot something, it was a Hen and I guess that is not legal, She got an "F" instead of the typical "D".

Mom and Cris picked us up. Then in the morning we were headed to my Grandma Marti's for breakfast. Well there were 5 of us and we were going to fit in my brother's truck. Ok, and this is not just any truck. It is ... well it has no power steering and no reverse. So we all pile in and he tries to turn it on. Only to find out he left the lights on over night and it is dead. So he starts rolling down the window and says, I hope there is enough juice to roll down the window. Come to find out, you can't open the doors from the inside either, and the windows are automatic. I can just imagine this call to AAA.

"Hello, can you please come unlock us?" -my family
"You mean you need us to unlock your car?" - AAA
"Yes, but we are inside and can't get out, all you need to do is open the door"- my family.

Anyway. We did get out and went to breakfast. Mom had us help sequin a wedding dress and then headed to Marcy's house to help make some invitations. It was a lot of fun to be with my friends and to get to show Rachel where I come from.

Sunday was super bowl at my house, always a good time and my dad makes the best food. I love my family.

Back to Chicago we went on Sunday night, again almost missing our train. (I am not the best at planning times)

Got back to Chicago... This week included: lots of school, working, starting volunteering at Catholic Charities 2 mornings a week, as if I don't have enough to do... and talked about Christianity and it's back round, also about the pope and Catholicism. I actually stayed up pretty late Tuesday night talking about it and Wednesday morning there was a large fire at the Catholic church right next door. Nothing else too excited.

Joe called last night and said his heat wasn't working. So I went down to see if the fireplace would work. well it didn't, but the moment I turned the thermostat down and then back up it kicked in... I'm just that good. Maybe I should go into heating instead of Social work. :)

Also, Sunday the fire-hydrant right outside our door started leaking and has been ever since, due to this aweful coldness I now have a ice skating rink outside my apt. door! Fun times in Chicago...

Random question of the week: If we freeze our bodies (immediately getting stuck in absolute zero temps) can we be revived?! ok. maybe I don't really think this, but it was discussed. :)

I don't want to proof read this, so take it for what it means not what it says. sorry so long.

Inauguration!!!

2009-01-24T09:50:00.002-06:00

Life has been so crazy the last week. I had the opportunity to go to Washington DC on Tuesday. There was a group of 7 of us that rented a van. Left on Monday around 2:30pm. Got into DC around 4:30 am on Tuesday. We had to wait in line to get past a security check point til about 2:15 pm. (yes 10 hours of no food, drink, bathrooms, and 24 degree weather. not to mention the 7,000 + people with me.)

It was all worth it in the end though. We got to see the president and first lady very close in the parade. I also was able to get a few good pictures of the capitol building. I am hoping to go back again and see the buildings on the mall area. This was my first Washington DC experience, but I sure hope it isn't the last! :)

We headed home around 4:30 pm and got home 4:30 am on Wednesday. The rest of the week was spent catching up and keeping my head above water in school and rehydrating myself. By Thursday I felt fine but had TONS of homework.

Now I am at one of my friend's house, they are out of town, so I am able to really focus on my homework. So I am going to head out for now but will try to add some pictures later. FYI: If you see any pictures of my green stocking hat on CNN, let me know :) JK

If only you could copy money

2009-01-14T19:17:00.004-06:00

Wednesdays Joe and I help out at an after school program. I did something similar in Illinois with the South Side Mission. It is always an experience. You never know how many kids or what is going to happen. Today was very small. Terrick was one of the kids there. He came in determined to make a duplicate dollar bill.

Terrick's Dollar instructions:
Start by copying both sides of the dollar (with help from Joe and Lynette)
Next cut the dollar out (They deffinately both ended up different sizes and did not match when put back to back.)
Next securely connect the 2 sides together with water and then freezing the dollar (?? where do kids come up with this stuff). Needless to say, that did not work as well as planned so he resorted to taping the sides together.

In the end I think we concluded we are just going to have to work for money. Too bad.

Anyway. Nothing much more. Class and actually I am now on a break for a 4 hour class that goes til 10:00 pm. not fun times. And worse yet, it is History. We shall see.

Welp, enjoy the dollar bill recipe and if anyone wants to come to Chicago this weekend I am free all weekend :) Back to class I go...

"Peeze Help"

2009-01-13T23:52:00.003-06:00

SO today was full of my new family. I worked for the Luces family today. I really enjoy Sandra the mom. She is one of the sweetest, soft spoken people in the world. Anyway. Sandra went to drop off Evan and Margarita at school and I stayed home with Austin. I was putting away clean clothes and I kept hearing Austin randomly and then I heard a door shut and no more Austin...

My heart stopped and I realized I needed to find him ASAP. I first checked all the exit doors as I called his name. No answer and I didn't see him on State Street (yes they live right off of State street). I finally went back to the parent's bedroom and he had locked himself in the closet. From inside I heard this calm 2-year-old voice "Peeze help". It was a keyed lock and so I first tried to use my AAA card and some pieces of cardboard but it was to no avail. I was talking to Austin and asking him to turn the door or the lock. Finally I found a key that fit but it didn't turn. I think Austin actually unlocked the door finally himself. When I opened it I also saw he was standing on the scale for more height. He is a smart little cookie. So sweet too.

It was a overall good day. And now I am going to bed.

The End.

First Day of Classes!

2009-01-12T20:36:00.002-06:00

Well this semester is once again random. I have 5 clases but they are all just once a week. 2 night classes, 1 evening class, 2 11:30 classes. Then hoping to get about 20+ hours of work in a week.

Today was good. Just babysat Brian and then headed to Theology. It looks to be a good class and I shouldn't have too much of a problem staying on top of things.

Yesterday was a great day. Went down to church with Boyd & Lois, good friends from the City that I started out living with. Then after church I went to pick up my Transportation pass up north. Which takes like 40 minutes to get there and 2 minutes to pick up the pass. Oh well, at least I have it now.

On my way back I stopped early and hung out with Boyd and Lois. I read my book and it was just good to have that "homey" atmosphere. They fed me a wonderful dinner also. Then I headed back stopped by Adam and Joe's apt. Joe came up and hung out. Made sure his appendix wasn't exploding and talked about the different communicating ways of males and females. lol. Always a good conversation.

Tonight Rachel and I read through the Betty Crocker cookbook. There are some good recipes in there. And now we have a very long grocery list. :) We are going shopping on Thursday night.

Oh enough for now. Hope this post finds you all in good spirits. IT IS STILL SNOWING HERE. Check out how much Snow Chicago has gotten lately. It is incredible.

A Week Come and Gone

2009-01-11T00:15:00.004-06:00

Fun Times since Tuesday...

Tuesday I worked a very full day. Wednesday was nice and relaxing night around the apt. Oh Joe went to Ikea and picked up some stuff for his apt and also a sofa table for us. It looks really nice. So I helped him and Adam (his new roommate) put up their stuff and then put together my sofa table. I love assembling furniture, when it isn't too difficult that is and I have the right tools.

Thursday worked again.

Friday was fun. I got to give Blood! always a good time. Joe and I went to the Thompson Center and then out to UIC. Then came back to Babysit. It was beautifully snowing on my way home. So pretty. I fresh reminder of the covering of Christ blood that covers my sins and gives me the opportunity to glorify Him in my life.

Got home and Adam and Joe came to visit and we ordered delivery pizza. At Dominoes you can watch on their site your order being made and it says by whom. The whole step by step process. We were impressed.

They enjoyed their pizza. I ate a little too.

Today. WICKED. I can't even tell you. I was so excited. It was so good. AHHHH. No Typed words can explain my excitement!

And then babysitting tonight. Evan (5), Margarita (4), Austin (2)

Back to Chi-town

2009-01-06T22:00:00.002-06:00

It was so good to get back into the City. Ok, I will miss my friends and family but it was good to be back with my friends up here! My family brought me and my dresser up on Sunday, everything went flawlessly. Ikea is AMAZING, so organized, I got some "stem-wear" as my lovely roommate some eloquently called it. Otherwise just lots of fun ideas. Rachel and I enjoyed the rest of the evening catching up and getting our dresser acquainted to our room.

Yesterday it was back to Brian. I spent 10 lovely hours with him. Gotta love little innocence! Then Rach and I tried to scrounge up some food. It was a little difficult due to the lack of items in our cupboards. Although, I think we have "plenty of food" just ask Rachel. Then Joe came up and we all enjoyed a Bally-wood film "Bride & Prejudice". It was really fun, loved the music, but I kept getting confused because I couldn't remember who was who. (minor detail)

Today I babysat, walked everywhere (because I don't get my Public Transportation pass til next Monday). Then went over to a new babysitting job. The kids are so precious. Margarita (today was her 4th birthday), Evan (5), and Austin (1 1/2). I was mainly with the 2 boys but they are a bundle of energy themselves. I will be babysitting them on Tuesdays from 8-1.

Then enjoyed a Bible Study with some girl friends in the city. We discussed God and the ideas we have of him and his characteristics. It raised more questions but it was good to reflect more on scripture and our Awesome creator.

WICKED COUNTDOWN: 3 days, 15 hours, and about 4 minutes (actually I don't really know when it starts but I thought about 3:00.) I am super excited.

Lindbergs!!

2009-01-03T12:48:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I was able to spend the afternoon with some sweet sweet friends! My friends from Georgia are up here for a short time. The Lindberg family moved to Thomasville, Georgia area about 5 years ago(they previously lived less then 10 miles from my house). I enjoyed the company of the 5 younger Lindbergs Ben, Lydia, Hannah, Joel, and Rachel. Megan Kies also came over! It was very fun. We enjoyed playing outside and taking a walk back to the woods. Rachel and Joel especially enjoyed the ice. I will hopefully have pictures to post when I get back up to Chicago. We had fun dressing up the dog (although I don't know how Chase felt about the whole thing :) )

Last night I was able to visit our Nursing Home and sing with a church group and then I spent the rest of the evening with more friends. I can't believe I only have one more night in Central Illinois, there are still so many friends I want to spend time with here. Oh well... back to reality I go. And I am looking forward to catching up with Chicago friends.

I am heading back tomorrow with my family. After stopping at Ikea and Bass Pro Shop my family will drop me and a new dresser off and busy Chicago life will start up once more. Until then...

Rose Bowl Today

2009-01-01T16:27:00.003-06:00

Last year on this date I was in California enjoying the Rose Parade, now I am only watching the game on tv. It was my cousin Amy and Johnny's wedding weekend. Wow... does time fly. Amy, I think I am going to wear my dress to church on Sunday. I tried it on today, still love it! Although my shoes are in Chicago, I'm not a big fan of having 2 houses.

And 2 years ago yesterday my other cousins Traci and David got married! Trace, I went to the mall Tuesday and thought of our fun pictures!

This New Years Eve was good times. I went out to Francesville, Ind. to surprise Dani Wuethrich. I have to admit I wasn't terribly excited especially when I learned that they have a church program that last til midnight. But after being there, I would encourage anyone to go. It was really encouraging and the time flew by. I really enjoyed the last few hours of 2008. Also It was great to see Francesville friends. After church Dani, Megan, and I headed down? up?... to Lafayette or West Lafayette to Kim Furr's (obviously I didn't drive...). There I was able to catch up with some more friends and then enjoyed my first meal of 2009 at Denny's this morning.

Random story: On the way home Megan and I stopped at DQ in Fairbury and she tried to catch the quarter in the twirly donation box, and SHE DID! She got a free Blizzard. Good job Megs!

The End.

First Time in Over a Month

2008-12-31T15:01:00.002-06:00

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

2008-11-22T10:22:00.005-06:00

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

2008-11-08T19:30:00.003-06:00

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.

2008-11-06T23:29:00.004-06:00

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

2008-10-27T21:59:00.006-05:00

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.

2008-10-22T22:16:00.002-05:00

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!!!

2008-10-21T18:32:00.004-05:00

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.

2008-10-20T20:57:00.002-05:00

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.

2008-10-18T14:38:00.002-05:00

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

2008-10-16T20:31:00.003-05:00

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.

2008-10-15T22:15:00.004-05:00

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.

2008-10-13T22:55:00.002-05:00

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.

2008-10-07T22:58:00.004-05:00

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.

2008-10-05T22:44:00.002-05:00

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

2008-10-04T22:17:00.002-05:00

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.

2008-10-03T19:02:00.002-05:00

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!

2008-10-01T21:44:00.002-05:00

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

2008-09-30T21:26:00.002-05:00

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.

2008-09-29T20:50:00.002-05:00

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

2008-09-27T22:48:00.003-05:00

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

2008-09-24T23:54:00.002-05:00

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.

2008-09-23T17:51:00.002-05:00

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

2008-09-20T23:40:00.002-05:00

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~

2008-09-17T13:55:00.002-05:00

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 +

2008-09-16T11:34:00.002-05:00

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.

2008-09-12T00:06:00.001-05:00

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...

2008-09-10T22:56:00.000-05:00

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.

2008-09-09T23:21:00.000-05:00

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.

2008-09-08T23:35:00.000-05:00

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...