LTB Swim

For the past almost 6 months Martin has been wanting me to put this video on youtube. I finally did yesterday. Here's a narrative of what you'll be watching:

I think it was a Friday night in the early spring. Early spring in Northern Michigan means no more snow storms but still cold weather and even colder water--especially in Lake Michigan.

We were taking a walk along the water because I'm sure it was one of the first walks we could take without bundling. (Bundling=hat, mittins, scarf, heavy coat, winter shoes) And when we got to Petoskey's Marina, Matt challenged the guys to go swim in the boat launch area. Kim said without hesitating that she'd do it. Martin said that if she went in first, he would go in. Matt said that if someone went in and swam three strokes, he would do it too.

Kim went in, despite my screams for her not to.

And then Martin reluctantly went in, probably from my urging him that he had to now. Matt Frentz never made it in that night even though I'm pretty sure it was his suggestion.

The video looks like it's no big deal because they're just walking out into the boat launch and back. But seriously, this water is barely thawed at this point. FREEZING water that takes your breath away as soon as you are in it.

Oh, it's really loud because I'm yelling right into the mic. I was pretty excited about the situation I guess. So, turn the volume down a lot before you play it.

Back From Chicago

My best friend graduated from MBI (Moody Bible Institute) this past Saturday. Martin and I went with my parents to celebrate her. It was a great trip. The weather was perfect. 70's and sunny for the most part. We did get rained on once but we were having so much fun on Michigan Avenue that I don't think any of us cared.

It's so exciting to watch a friend exit one phase of life and move on to another. Jessica has been so dear to me since about 9th grade. I think that makes her my oldest friend that I keep in touch with. I don't have grade school friends that I still know today so, my relationship with her is especially meaningful.

I really am SO proud of her! What a great accomplishment. She graduated with a degree in international studies. She'll be moving back to Michigan for the summer/fall and plans to return back to South Africa (I told you you would go back there if you went once!) in Jan. for at least a year. I'm expecting much longer though. I think Africa took a part of her heart just like it did mine a few years ago. Hopefully, I'll get to spend a few weekends with her before she leaves me again. I sense this will be the nature of our relationship for the rest of our lives. I would have it no other way, she has the biggest heart of anyone I know and for her not to share it with those in need would be wrong.

Here's to many many more wonderful years together Jessica! More pictures from Chicago are on my Flickr page