A new look

Having somewhat settled into life back in DC, the next obvious thing to do was to update the blog.  But because I am:

1) technologically slow
2) somewhat lazy when regarding said technology

I...

3) decided to keep the blog address (hydeparkheroes.blogspot.com) as it is and just change the title and pictures.  Nifty!

The main picture you see here at Capitol City was taken last night, as the last few guests of a small "welcome home" party grilled, talked and watched the sun set and the moon rise.  It was pretty breathtaking, if I do say so myself.

And I have a feeling that our life here, especially in the next few years, is going to be breathtaking as well.  From new jobs (me with inmates, M with economists), to a new apartment- and hopefully someday soon a new home of our own- to old and new friendships, the whirlwind has already begun.  But in a city and among a population that likes to pride itself on how busy they are, what does it mean to live well here, to work for and create calm and peace in every day life, and to live intentionally in relationship, where most people have a deeper relationship with their blackberry or iPhone?  I think we have a lot to learn.

And one last thing.  You'll notice that the title of this blog is Capitol City (hence the picture), not Capital City.  Though both could work in this particular context, because I'm always trying to make the world a better place, I leave you with a link concerning the difference between the word "Capitol" and "capital."  It's really not that hard, people.  Thanks, Grammarist.

It's good to be home.

All That's Left

All that's left now in our apartment is a blow up mattress, a couple pairs of shoes, some clothes and odds and ends that will make it in the car for our travel across country.

As much as we have been looking forward to this move, it's hard to believe it's actually here.  Driving down Lakeshore one of the last times yesterday, I was struck by how much we don't deserve any of the amazing blessings that have been given to us, especially in these last few weeks.  How many times did we doubt that something would work out?  How many times did we (ok, maybe I) question if God really wanted us back in Washington, DC, as nothing seemed to be coming to fruition?  How many times did I wonder if He would really provide for all of our needs?

And now we're here, on our last day in Chicago.  While I've been preparing and hoping, I will still be sad to leave many things of this city behind.  An amazing community group (and three of our favorite kids in the world), an incredible job and rent about half the price of what we'll pay in DC.  Even the skyline, the lake, the views will be something I no doubt reminisce on, as I look out at the squatty (though beautiful) DC skyline. 

There's still quite a lot to get done today.  Bank run, cable box return, POD pick up, final car packing and clothes washing, plus my last day of work.  But tonight we will make sure that we celebrate this city that has been home for the last 22 months, that has been a place of education for both M and me and- most importantly- a place of substantial, beautiful growth.