For the curious, we now live in Champaign-Urbana, IL where Matthew is attending the University of Illinois for a PhD in Russia History. There's been a lot in play getting us here and we are beginning to get settled.
We stayed for about two months with various family members before we were able to move. There was much activity and lots of food.
We stayed for about two months with various family members before we were able to move. There was much activity and lots of food.
Cirniki dinner (there's a Russian deli/grocery in Indy!)
Matt and Jarod on a zipline at the public park near my parents
Blini feast!
A good friend of mine from college and her husband live very close to us and that has been a huge blessing. It makes a big difference to be able to move into a new area and have people close by that you know!
We loaded up a truck with all of our stuff and moved in on the 16th. We were able to go through all of the things we got from our wedding and showers, and it was like getting presents all over again since so much of it was still brand new!
And here is the apartment:
outside
We both like it a lot here. The community in grad housing is very diverse and we've had great experiences with everyone from the school as well. We've met people at the college and in our apartment complex and everyone has been really friendly and welcoming.
Last week I also had time and made an Illini cake (UofI's colors are orange and navy blue). I've never done a cake with layers or frosting before so that was fun.
There isn't going to be a ton of detail on here now that we're in the US but we wanted to just let people see where we are and hear a little about what is going on.
