Checking In

Well, it has been a little while since we checked in, so I thought I would just send a little update. Things are going where here in Chicago. Kent and I are both enjoying our jobs, and our apartment. We are getting to know a few more people from our church, which is making it more and more like home. We haven't gotten involved in the praise team or anything yet, but probably sometime this summer we will start getting involved. My job has been taking off more and more, which is encouraing. It is weird to think that in February, their first music therapist started, and now I have a full case load. The nurses are starting to see the benefits more and more, which is great. I'm hoping that within a year, they see the need to hire a second music therapist. I know it will take some time to grow the program, but I see that happening in the future.

We are both looking forward to the warmer weather to actually get to enjoy the benefits of Chicago. I still can't believe that we live close to a large body of water. There are days that I drive right by the lake, and marvel at it's beauty. God definately is the master artist.

So, although I don't have any new pictures right now, we are still doing great here in the big city. This weekend we're going to finish tiling my sister and brother-in-law's shower, so maybe we'll get some pictures this weekend. Check back next week to see if there is another update.

Grief and Thoughts about It....

So, over the last week, I feel like the only news we have received has been bad news. Whether it was our friend's baby being rushed to the emergency room, an accident of some of our friends, or the horrible car accident at Taylor. While both Kent and I have been away from Taylor now for awhile, I still can just imagine how difficult having 5 people from the University being stripped away from them suddently. I can't imagine however the waiting in the Chapel, and hearing that their friend was one who didn't make it. I've read so many stories and heard so many stories as well, and my heart is heavy as I think about the students and faculty having to go back to classes today. I've been praying for that professor with the empty chair, the roommate with an empty bed, or those still waiting to hear if their friend has come out of her coma yet. I know that the only way Christians can make it through a time like this is faith, and it makes me appreciate the community that Taylor is. I cannot imagine how one would get through a time like this if they didn't know Christ. So, even though it has been close to a week now, please continue to pray for the families of the victims, the Taylor community, and anyone else who has a direct connection to this tragedy. If you are reading this, obviously you are close to both of us, so we want to say that We love you, and are truly grateful for all of you.

Other than this last week, things have been going well with both of us. Jobs are the same. We did take Kendra (one of my college roommates) out this Saturday to her favorite restaurant and a movie. It was fun to hang out with her. You see, Kendra is great at celebrating her birthday. In fact, she makes a whole MONTH out of it. So, since her birthday is Thursday, we thought we would start just a few days early. All jokes aside, it has been great to have her here in Chicago, at least for a little bit longer.

So, as you go about your weeks, remember not to take life for granted. We never know when God will decide that it is time for us to move to our Eternal Home. So, instead of yelling at that loved one, give them a hug today and let them know how much you appreciate them. :)