The swing of things

We are finally starting to feel a little more settled. The unpacking has been done for quite a while, but now we are getting more familiar and comfortable with the area. The faces at church are starting to get associated with names. And I'm finally in a good routine with work and tutoring.

We received tickets to the Renaissance Festival from some members at church, so we took a Saturday afternoon to check it out. I think it's safe to say we won't be returning next year... Maybe we just picked a bad time to go--it was rainy and getting cold, but wow, the crowds a festival like that attract really are something else! Here's a picture from the joust we watched and a street sign we passed on our way there.

 

 The Michigan District Pastor's Conference was in Traverse City--and both of us went. In the middle of September, the autumn leaves in northern Michigan are absolutely stunning! 















 I was surprised at how many people I actually knew from the Michigan District! It was good to see some familiar faces! It was also fun to spend some time in wine country... although Mission Peninsula isn't quite the same as Napa Valley.

We attended a PALS event for new pastors in our area. It is kind of like a support group... But it is very comforting to know that we aren't in this alone.

We are also starting up a young couples' Bible study small group. Our network of friends is growing!

I also had a Teachers' Conference for the South East part of the District. The conference wasn't all that impressive, but a few cool things happened... Pastor Jeremy Schultz led opening worship--He's the brother of Matt's field work pastor when we were at the seminary. And one of the main presenters showed video clips of teachers at Unity, East St. Louis and Good Shepherd, Collinsville. I felt like I was back in the Southern Illinois District!

I was able to get away for another trip home! I had this flight booked before I got my teaching job, so I didn't intentionally plan on having a sub for a whole week...



But I was able to be home to help Lani make the kids' Halloween costumes, celebrate Evan's 4th birthday, celebrate the Malones wedding, and spend some much needed time with friends and family. It is amazing how fast that week went by!



We made "ugly doll" costumes.



Poor girl wasn't feeling well.. bad milk?

Happy Birthday Evan!



Congratulations Christy!





And because there is no rest for the weary, as soon as I got back to Michigan, I not only had a massive pile of papers to grade, but grades were due--report cards were coming out! I put in a couple late-nighters but pulled it off just in time. And I even survived parent teacher conferences.

Now I'm looking forward to the end of November. All the Bayes (and Kruegers) are coming to Michigan for Thanksgiving! I am so excited to see all of you again. I just have to figure out the logistics of sleeping arrangements and do a little meal planning (and some major cleaning!) and I'll be ready for you! Safe travels!