The gift of reading

Kevin and I are participating in the Youthville Christmas ornament program again at our church this year.  We saw an ornament that we just couldn't pass up!  The 15 year-old girl wanted a kindle and the Twilight Series on her kindle.  Kevin and I are both passionate about the importance of reading, especially for youth, so we chose the ornament.  We hope it brings many hours of reading enjoyment!

Chicago and back

I had a great time in Chicago last week! I went to the CAEL conference, and it was a great mix of networking, learning new ideas, and getting time to explore the city!  The conference was at the InterContinental Hotel, and I'm not too proud to say that I took pictures! :) 

Large room all to myself

Loved the modern look of the bathroom

On the second day of the conference

 We went downtown on the second night of the conference.  It was fun having a chance to shop on Michigan Avenue!

I made two really great friends, Amanda and Sally (not pictured)! Amanda is from Ottawa, KS, and Sally is from Syracuse, New York! 

Sadly, C&B was already closed :(

Kevin gave me beautiful flowers when I got home!

I had a great time, and it was even worth all the numerous emails I'm catching up on at work!  Next trip: Jamaica in 10 days!

I mean business

I leave tomorrow morning for Chicago to go to the Council for Adult & Experiential Learning conference.  I'm super excited, although I'm a little sad that Kevin and I will be apart for the longest amount of time since we've been married.  Don't worry, honey, I'll call you often. :)

My boarding pass is printed, and I'm 99% packed.  This is my first business trip by myself, and in some ways I feel like I'm playing dress up.  Will I blend in with all the business travelers?  Will I look like a seasoned professional?  It's fun to know there are still plenty of ways I'm growing in my career that make it feel new often.