Our busy lives...

I know every time we post (which is not often enough, I know) we say how busy we've been. But now it seems that we are busier than ever. Both of us are working full-time and trying to get out and enjoy the summer as much as possible while we can.

My work is chaotic right now because they are completely remodeling the inside of the library, and they are building a brand new dorm right next to the library (and right outside my window). My parents did bring my bicycle to Chicago on their way to Montana, so that is helpful getting to and from work. Zach has been working very hard and gaining a lot of valuable experience this summer working as a chaplain at a hospital in Berwyn, IL. While he has had to deal with some difficult situations, I think he's still enjoying his time there. Most days he carpools with a neighbor of ours that is working there, too, which has been really nice. The worst part of his job is that has to be on-call one night per week, so sometimes he leaves at 7:20am one day and doesn't come home until 5:45 the next day. I'm glad that I have Mr. Wilson for company!

Besides working, we've been looking for fun things to do in the city. So far this summer we've been to the Blues Festival with our neighbors Matt and Chris, and Zach and I went to the Shedd Aquarium during one of its free days. I went up to Evanston for my cousin Elizabeth's graduation party (she went to Northwestern), and had the best time getting to see wonderful family, including my Quaidie! Zach was working that night, but I did bring him back some stellar food. I started taking a painting class at the Hyde Park Art Center, and I'm really excited about getting back into painting again. Also, our good friend Adam came back for a weekend and we loved hanging out and going to see some fireworks with him...we'll be glad when he comes back to Chicago after the summer! We've been spending as much time as possible with our friends, grilling out and enjoying sitting out on our porches. Tuesday we had a cookout with homemade ice cream for the Fourth of July and then headed over to the lake to watch the big fireworks display from the Point. Then for the actual Fourth we both had the day off. We went to the Hyde Park parade and had lunch with friends JT, Erin, and Nora, then rested for most of the day.

In family news, our nephew Simon was baptized this past weekend, and although we couldn't be there, we celebrate with him and his parents. And I can't wait to see them all in August at my brother's wedding! Also, my parents stopped by on the way to Montana a couple of weeks ago, and now they are coming to visit us again on the way back. I am very much looking forward to a longer visit to be able to show them more of Chicago. Shortly after my parents leave, Zach's parents will be coming to visit us, as well. They have both been here, but on separate trips, so it will be wonderful to have them here together! Plus, they are bringing a bike for Zach, and we are both excited to go ride along the lakefront.

We hope that all of you are enjoying your summer so far!