Sending a Latte Love

Good morning!

As I sit at my desk with a hot cup of coffee (and finally in a summer outfit - we went from about 50 degrees to 90 in one week here in PA), I took a moment to read my post from March. Sometimes I'm thankful that (while inconsistent) The Mustard Seed has forced me to keep a log about life for the past three years. [Disclaimer: Started typing an update this AM, and just finished around 4pm --- welcome to the world of higher education and unpredictable interruptions! Now on my afternoon cup of coffee...]

I've been doing lots of writing lately, thanks to a summer filled with graduate work, so this will be shorter than the last update. Don't let the brevity fool you, we have oodles to be thankful for over these past months, and so I'm happy to share!

Quick health update --- I visited NYC in March and had a great report --- I was given SIX months until my next set of scans. In our world, that's record-setting. We are so thankful. I'll continue to have lab work done every two months --- my May report was great, so it's checked off the list until July. We are so thankful, incredibly humbled, and continuously blessed.

Drew and I are proud to share that we have officially survived a year...a year with Drew serving in the role as Banquet Captain. Let me just say...it has not been easy...and as hard as the schedule has been for me, it has been ten times more difficult for Drew. I am SO proud of his hard work with Hershey Entertainment & Resorts and we are confident in the Lord's plan for Drew's career. He has made some great relationships, had the opportunity to be a light to so many co-workers and those that he manages, and we just know that this time in his career has been so strategically situated by our Heavenly Father. THIS is what keeps us going when he's working 70-hour weeks, leaving the house at 3:30am, and I'm working a "normal" work-day and then tied-up with events at school well into the evening. We've had to get creative with time spent together, but thankfully I have a very gracious boss who is happy to grant me a "Saturday" in the middle of the week during the summer if Drew is home. THANKFULLY summer is upon us. Life at the Hershey Lodge slows down significantly, the students have left LBC's campus, and vacation is in sight. We have some great trips planned this summer with both of our families, including some quality time in Lancaster with our southern family. We're pretty excited and so thankful for the reprieve of these next few months.

That being said, as school ended for our students at LBC, I just kicked back into gear. On top of my "regular job" this summer I am completing a 120-hour internship in another department on our campus and taking an institutional assessment and effectiveness course. The higher education buff inside of me loves it --- the other part of me is swooning over the day in 2017 that Lord-willing I will finish this advanced degree.

Just last week we celebrated our 2nd wedding anniversary --- so crazy! I told Drew that I think we're inching out of that newlywed stage and now we're just officially "married people." Haha! It hit me when a co-worker of mine (who is getting married in July) came into my office and realized it was our wedding anniversary. She said, "How do you feel on this day?" "Why are you here?" "Two years ago this was the day you got married!!" My response? I feel...married! It's something we live-out each day and it's fun to remember the day we became husband and wife, but it's something to celebrate every day! Then I told her that we would celebrate by going out to dinner and pick out a Netflix movie we've been wanting to watch --- as you can tell, we're really tough to please! Actually, our gift to ourselves was some fresh mulch, a new laminate floor in our basement --- even splurged on pre-finished molding --- and my parents surprised us with a new sliding glass door. THESE are the things we get excited about in this chapter :)

To round out this update, I do have some sad news to share. This might sound strange, but I think it's impacted our family more than we could have anticipated. Not that this is anything easy, but I think it was my impression that we would be more prepared when this time eventually came. At the end of March we received some difficult news; my dear grandmother was diagnosed with an acute form of aggressive Leukemia --- four weeks later she went home to be with her Lord. I'll never forget the moment. We were packing our bags to head to my parents for my latest NYC appointment. I had just gotten off the phone with my Mom about an hour before, as I called regularly for updates. She told me that we were "turning a corner" and that she wouldn't be traveling to NYC with us that next day. As I loaded the car, Drew pulled in the driveway from work. My phone rang and the tears started rolling down my face. In just that short amount of time she had slipped away. I'm thankful for the visits we did have in those last weeks and comforted that she openly shared that she was ready to go home and be with her Lord. What a gift to know that with open arms she was in the presence of our Heavenly Father --- "Well done my good and faithful servant."

As we drove to my parents that night I remember exactly where we were on Route 30 when this song came on the radio https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dx1_7gfCy38. Such a joyous reminder of why we live this life and why we are called to live-out His will for us. It's humbling, in all circumstances.

I once was lost, but now I'm found,

So far away but I'm home now. I once was lost but now I'm found.

And now my life song sings.

I once was blind but now I see,

And now my life song sings,

Hallelujah, Hallelujah --- let my life song sing to You.

Wishing you all a wonderful summer --- I'm craving some "sand between the toes" time, and so I'll check-in after we've made plenty of that happen over these next weeks!

Love Sarah (& Drew too!)

I'm Still Here!

I've decided to not even do the math on how many days...weeks...months even, since I last posted in the Mustard Seed. Rather I'm going to send up praises that life has been THAT busy and THAT good that I haven't made the time to sit down and write. Our students are on spring break this week, so it's a good time to take a moment and write. Each of you who reads these updates are an integral part of our family's support network as you continue to pray and with us thank the Lord for his continued provision and blessing over our lives through the challenging times and good times.

So to give an update, we're going to go with bullet points. And I'm sure I'm missing something, because it's been that long, but I'll do my best to catch up...

• I believe the last time I posted, we were amidst a two week visit in Lancaster, Pa. with the Gilchrist family (Drew's sister, her husband, and their three precious kiddos). Following their PA tour, we all headed to Fripp Island, SC for a week at the beach and Drew/Carly's cousin Leah and her husband Travis and their (almost 2 year old!) son Ridgely joined. It was glorious and filled with lots of laughs - we've already booked our house for this year and I'm awaiting that "sand between the toes" feeling.

• Drew's "new" job (it will be a year this July) has provided a lot of growth opportunities for him - we are so blessed. He has truly expanded his skill sets and leadership within the industry and we're excited about future opportunities with Hershey. His schedule is challenging, for both of us, but so far our plan seems to be working well --- his long (and odd) hours have made time for me to go back to graduate school and work on finishing my Master's degree. Lord-willing I will finish May 2017, and already have 3 classes under my belt after beginning October 2015. It's been very enjoyable, but challenging to balance life, full-time work, and being a student again --- but I feel so blessed to have the opportunity!

• To celebrate our 1-year anniversary we made a special weekend out of our friend's wedding in Washington D.C. over Labor Day weekend. Two nights at the Ritz-Carlton and a weekend wardrobe from Rent the Runway gave us a glimpse of how the other half lives! It was a great weekend of celebration and truly fun to get away and splurge on one another. We did some great sight-seeing and wrapped up the weekend at Mount Vernon, President George Washington's estate - so beautiful! It was also during this weekend that we said goodbye to our forever furry family member, Abby. At 18-years old it was time for her to rest peacefully, and so mom and dad made the difficult decision and told Amanda and I at the end of that weekend. It has been a tough adjustment, especially for mom and dad, but she lived a great life and brought us so much joy!

• My job at Lancaster Bible College is truly more than I could have ever hoped for. We just closed out our men's and women's basketball seasons; our men saw an undefeated regular season and made it to the first round of the NCAA Div. III tournament - a first in school history. It has created great momentum for our Athletic Department and so to say we're excited about the future here would be an understatement. We're very blessed.

• December 24, 2015 was one-year in our home, and we've loved every minute of it. It was a fun way to commemorate a year as the Gilchrists visited for a week in December and we hosted Drew's family Christmas at our house. On a daily basis, Drew and I feel like it's too much "house" for us --- with 15 adults, 4 kiddos, and lots of presents we looked at each other throughout the day and thought --- I guess we need a bigger house. Haha! Not happening, but it was so joyful to have our home filled with such love and laughter this holiday season.
• December came with a dose of extra thankfulness as we had a bit of a scare at the beginning of that month. To sum it up in a very dry way...which I can now do, but at the time could barely mumble the words...the first week in December I had a breast biopsy. This was something we had known about since October, and my oncologist was sure that it was a benign, dense area in my breast or perhaps a "piece" of what I already have --- it seemed to be in the history of my scans, but because a radiologist had noted it in my fall appointment, my doctor said "We can't be too cautious, I just want to check it out." Fast forward to a week later when I walked into my office to answer my phone and was told, "Sarah, you have a completely different type of cancer in your breast. We're scheduling you to meet with a breast surgeon next week and they will review treatment options with you." My reaction? "What? Lord, really? Have we not faced enough? How can this be happening? Lord, you are so faithful to us and have blessed us so much, I know this in your perfect plan. But did this have to be the plan? Will I have to have a mastectomy? Will I have to have chemo? How can this be happening." Over the next 48-hours I made plans - to withdraw from my grad school classes (AGAIN), made arrangements at work should I need to be out for a while, told our entire staff - the whole campus was praying. I could be found in my office crying with co-workers, praying with co-workers, crying with my boss. It was so emotional for everyone...and I know all of you were in the loop via text message too. Fast forward to 48-hours after the proverbial bomb was dropped on our lives...and the breast doctor calls me back. I'll never forget the call, I was getting ready to take our Student Government officers to an end-of-year lunch and the doctor said, "We were wrong. It was a misdiagnosis. I am so sorry for what we put you through, Sarah. I am so, so, sorry." Insert more crying, running into my boss's office exclaiming, "They were wrong!" and then calling my husband and parents to tell them the news. Long story short --- it's what my primary specialist thought all along --- part of what I have, and it's been there for a bit. He said, "See you in March, as we planned." My scans and labs remain to be very stable, and this past January 25 marked three years since my diagnosis - praises!! So...did they, Memorial Sloan Kettering, make a mistake? Not sure, we'll never know the whole story (trust me, we had lengthy conversations following the "oops" phone call)...but we know that on Wednesday, I had breast cancer, and hundreds of people started praying...and on Friday, I did not have breast cancer. Prayers answered.

• In other news - I turned 26 last month - Drew and the family treated me to a day of retail therapy and dinner! Drew turns 27 next month. As a gift to ourselves we flew to GA for our nephew's third birthday over Valentine's Day weekend - it was a quick trip, but so good to be with family and love on those sweet kiddos. We're excited to get out in our yard this spring and have some home improvement projects planned for the spring. Drew is helping with men's volleyball again at LBC (as much as his schedule allows), and has joined a gym and racquetball league in Hershey - he loves it! I just finished up my third grad class and have a "break" until June, but we're coming up on several fundraising events and "end of year" at school, so it will no doubt be a busy and exciting time. My little sister (who is not so little anymore) moved to Lancaster after the holidays, and we're only 15 minutes from each other - so proud of her and how hard she works. She's in the thick of her OT Master's program and working for an out-patient therapy center in the area.

• Prayer requests? I go back to the doctor at the end of March -- March 31 to be exact. I feel great, and honestly if my lung hadn't collapsed three years ago I think we'd still be in the dark about what is going on inside my body. But God's timing is perfect, and we know he revealed this "adventure" to us for good reason and to be used for His glory. You should have seen the jaws drop when I shared with our staff the scare in December -- many of them had no idea, and I'm thankful to live life in that way. That being said, I always reach a certain level of anxiety when these appointments swing around.

• Also, if you could be praying for my parents and my grandmother (mom's mom), she is facing serious health concerns that started with pneumonia around Christmas. It seems we've turned a corner and God's perfect plan for her life is unfolding a little faster than we could have predicted --- but we know it's just that, His perfect plan and that all things will happen in His timing. Please pray for her heart (Grandma's) and that she can find peace in knowing that there is a place without suffering, sickness, and fatigue with our Heavenly Father whenever he may decide to call her home.

All in all, Drew and I are great and feel so blessed to be on this journey of life together and to know and love all of you. Some we see more than others, but no matter the distance, you're always in our hearts! Many of you sent photo cards for Christmas this year, and they completely cover one side of our refrigerator --- we've left them up so that we can think of you often and pray for you too! Thank you for your continued love, care, and prayer. We could not do this life without you.

Hugs,

Sarah

Sweet Summertime

I thought for sure a blog post was missing when I logged into the Mustard Seed today - how could it have been since March since I last wrote?!  It doesn't seem possible, but I'm so thankful for all of the goodness in these past 4(ish) months and happy to share a quick update on life with the Dillons!

It was a busy spring - all I remember from March is work and men's volleyball at Lancaster Bible College (Drew helps coach) and in April I think Drew and I had at least one or two "big" work events each week.  It was crazy, and in the midst of that everything defrosted outside and our new yard (which we had only seen in the snow) came to life - lots of grooming to be done and weekend projects to help us make it our own. All to say - the end of my first academic year at LBC was very smooth (and I'm cherishing the quietness of summer to cross some things off my to-do list at the office), Drew helped lead the event team at Hershey through a busy spring (and the marriage of his boss who then went to Ireland for two weeks amidst lots of events), and we were SO thankful for the impending arrival of SUMMER!

May was great - and stressful - and filled with some worry - it was a roller coaster.  The highlight for sure was traveling down to SC in the first week to spend a long weekend with the Gilchrists.  We got to meet our sweet and squirmy niece, Sadie Ann, for the first time, and did our best to keep up with her on-the-go brother and sister.  We loved every second of our visit and it was the perfect spring getaway.  We love the Gilchrists, that's all there is to it!

After our SC visit, Drew went on to a work conference in Atlanta for a few days and I returned to PA. To keep it simple, it was a tough few weeks.  I had a few very intense migraine headaches with complete tingling/numbing on my left side.  These would happen periodically (maybe once every 6 months) before I was ever diagnosed, so this wasn't something completely new.  However, 4 or 5 of these in 3 weeks suddenly became concerning.  Let's be honest, I was thinking the worst. We.were.terrified.  However, my symptoms weren't consistent.  So, I e-mailed my oncologist, he ordered a series of MRIs and so the last three weeks in May were...STRESSFUL. To be completely vulnerable with you, I let the devil get into my head, I had a complete meltdown, I was so scared.  And then, it was like a switch flipped.  I could feel the Lord just take my hand and say, "Sarah, we have been in the unknown together before.  This we know.  And I have NEVER failed you, I have ALWAYS protected you.  I KNOW this is challenging you, but you need to RE-LEARN to lean on me."

So, that's what we did.

Labs, scans and MRIs came back fine.  The "usual" tests were stable and the MRIs showed, nothing. They were clean.  Praise Jesus.  I'm now very aware of what can trigger a migraine and happy to report I haven't had one since.  And the tingling/numbing...a pinched nerve of sorts. I also learned that getting incredibly stressed can have a very negative impact on our physical well being. Oi vey. What a fiasco! Bottom line, I let worry get the best of me.

I'll go back for labs in August and provided everything is good I don't have the full work-up again until October.  Praising Jesus for that too.

I...we...learned a lot in May, and were reminded of His goodness, grace, provision, and protection over my life and our lives.

SO, amidst all of this - we had a pretty special day.  May 25 we celebrated our 1 year wedding anniversary.  We had a wonderful day together - we worked in our yard and then went out for a delicious dinner to the place where we had our rehearsal dinner.  We did eat our thawed cake - it was good for being a year old, that's my only feedback there - haha!  We watched our wedding video and relished in the memories of our beautiful day.  I'll wish now until eternity that I could be back there for just 5 minutes.  It was the best.  But, living life as Drew's wife is pretty incredible, so I'll take that every minute of every day for a lifetime!

So, now to a summary of our summer thus far, it's been pretty sweet...

We spent 4 days in Tennessee with my parents, my sister, and our best friends Brooke & Bobby Rhoads (the couple that introduced Drew and I) - it was wonderful - we played in the water for 4 days straight. What a blast.

The Gilchrists are finishing up a two week visit at our house right now.  Time we wouldn't trade for anything.  We have had a blast with our three favorite kiddos and their mom.  Even better, we're headed to Fripp Island with them on Saturday (where their dad will meet up with us!) and Drew/Carly's cousin and her family for a full fledged family vaca.  We're pretty excited!

And one more bit of big news - Drew accepted a new position (and promotion!) with Hershey.  SO PROUD of him.  He's in his first week of the new gig, so there will be more to update after we get back from vacation and he has a few weeks on the books.  We're very excited and feel incredibly blessed for this wonderful opportunity.

I think I'll leave it at that!  Many of you probably saw this picture floating around on Facebook, but for those that didn't, here's a highlight with our nieces and nephew from the July 4 picnic we hosted at our home.

Drew and I hope everyone is finding some time for R&R this summer - look forward to checking in again soon!

Hugs,

Sarah

Welcome to 17 Cherry Tree Lane

Happy Spring!  I think...almost...maybe...okay we might get snow on Friday.  But nonetheless, I am choosing to embrace the 60 degree temps we'll see today.  Tomorrow is St. Patrick's Day, so my office is filled with Celtic tunes and the corned beef is defrosting for later in the week.  I've also decided that this week I'm taking back "Darling."  It's only right.  St. Patrick's Day was the perfect excuse for our family to get together - one of my Poppy's favorites.

I can't help but think about what Poppy Darling would think of us today - all seven "Darling girls" all grown up.  This weekend we'll gather to celebrate the April arrival of our very first BOY in the family since my dad was born - so excited for my cousin Kathleen and her husband Jason.  But again, I can't help what Poppy would think.  There have been weddings, babies, new homes, big moves, graduations, times with lots of laughter and plenty with tears.  I think he would be pretty proud - we've powered through like true Darlings, and at the end of the day we always have each other. Poppy loved toads.  It was one of his things.  This past Christmas at our exchange there was a frog wind chime - we all went crazy over it, I think mostly because it reminded us of him.  Needless to say, a few of us went to World Market later that week and bought our own.  I'm excited to hang my "toad" out on the patio this summer.  It's a great little reminder of the man who always brought us all together and loved us so much.

I'm happy to share that the week after my birthday - the big 2-5 - we made a trip to NYC.  Our patience was challenged as I was recovering from a stomach virus (one of the joys of working with college students) and Drew came down with the same virus the evening we were supposed to leave for the city - oh and we got about 10 inches of snow that day too.  I had a few meltdowns, as I've become quit accustomed to our NYC routine.  We travel to my parents the night before, Drew is always with me, then we drive in for an early appointment, pray for good news and then return to Lancaster.  So, I had to get a grip, put on my big girl pants and put my anxieties into the Lord's hands because let's face it, He's the common denominator in all of this.  He's the one constant.  He is ALWAYS there.

God is so good - I had a great report.  I didn't always understood tears of joy, but let me tell you over these past two years (yes, it has been over two years since my diagnosis!) I could quite literally cry tears of joy after the doctor says, "Things look very stable, Sarah."  I don't always hear much after that, I just sit in that chair and sink into God's abundant, unfailing provision, grace, and blessing on our lives.  Thank you, thank you.

So what does all this mean?  Things are stable?  It means that my scans are virtually unchanged since I was diagnosed in 2013.  I will return for scans and lab work in 3 months, as on of my lymph nodes was slightly enlarged, however the doctor is quite sure this is due to simple sinus congestion - something normal for just about everyone.  So we'll pray that the lymph node that looked slightly inflamed has returned to normal in a few months.  If all goes well, we can start to spread out the scans a little more.  My hope is that we could get to every 4-5 months as to reduce the amount of radiation exposure.  I will remain without treatment as I am asymptomatic.  I always love when they ask me about my energy level.  "Umm, Drew and I go about 110 mph every week.  So sometimes I'm tired on Friday nights, but I think that is expected."

To give a quick update on the Dillon household, we are well.  We are both loving our jobs and so thankful for our co-workers who have really become like family. Drew is finishing his second season as an Assistant Coach for the Men's Volleyball Team at Lancaster Bible.  We bought a house (hence the Cherry Tree Lane title, although sadly that is not our address), closed on December 24, left to visit our family in Georgia for 10 days and then came back to a snow-filled January in which we moved.  It was an adventure.  But we tried to keep perspective.  Two years ago we didn't know what was ahead.  To sit in OUR home at night with a cup of tea and the love of my life...it's pretty sweet.  I am blessed.

We're excited for the spring/summer and all that is to come - weddings - yes, more weddings! Vacation time with family and friends (we became an Uncle & Aunt again this past January - can't wait to meet sweet Sadie Ann!), warmer weather which means outdoor yard work...all great things!

We're so thankful for each of you, your continued prayers and unending support, encouragement and love.  You see us through it all, and for that we are so grateful.

Lots of love,

Sarah

This past Friday we enjoyed a date night out with one of Drew's high school friends and his girlfriend.
We may or may not have made our reservations for 8pm so we could come home from work
and take a power nap first!  Highlight of the evening?  Drew's friend owns a successful landscaping company in the area and offered some help - and these new homeowners have some seriously overgrown holly bushes that need some lovin!

Merry Wishes!

Hello all!

Just wanted to send some quick holiday greetings to my Mustard Seed'ers as we prepare for 2015.

I know it's been some time since my last update, but I am happy to report that my November visits to NJ and NYC were "quiet,"  labs and scans were stable and so for that we are very thankful!  There seems to be a steady, but very slow progression.  It's hard to believe that next month marks two years since my diagnosis.  While the number markers have increased, the rate of increase is reportedly insignificant.  Allow me to put this all in "non-doctor" terms for a moment - I feel wonderful.  My next visits are scheduled for the end of February - we appreciate your continued prayers!

Since I last checked-in on the blog, we've had some changes in our family.  On August 4 I started a new position with Lancaster Bible College as the Assistant Director of Athletics.  My primary responsibilities are department fundraising and academic support for our student-athletes.  I absolutely love it - the students are wonderful and the team I have the privilege to work with is incredible.  In addition to his work with Hershey Entertainment, Drew will assistant coach the Men's Volleyball team for the second season.  We're incredibly blessed to both have the opportunity to invest in the lives of students at LBC.  Looking back, Drew and I would say that two years ago this is where we hoped to be - I would be working in higher education and Drew would be climbing the corporate ladder at Hershey...

I'd be the first one to tell you that the journey "here" is not what we expected, but we're here and God is good!

I know everyone has holiday travel and family plans fast approaching as we prepare for December 25 - we'll be praying for safe travels and bountiful quality time with loved ones.  We're headed South to visit with Drew's sister and her family - and then to Hilton Head to ring in the New Year with my parents.  We're very much looking forward to some time together and away from e-mail!

Sending lots of love from PA and the warmest of wishes for a very Merry Christmas & blessed 2015 ~ The Dillons ~

The Dillons, Est. 2014

Tonight I'm signing in for the first time as Mrs. Sarah Dillon - whoa - it's still strange to see that in writing!

Let me begin by saying, our wedding was the most INCREDIBLE day.  From the sunshine to the people that were able to share in our celebration it was what we always dreamed of and more.  We have lots of photos to share (and even a video on the way!) but for now I'll share just one.

 

This was probably one of my favorite parts of our day.  Months before our wedding Drew and I were contemplating who should pray at the start of the reception.  After some discussion we decided that we wanted our first prayer together, as husband and wife, to be a prayer for everyone that surrounded us on that day and a prayer for all of you - those who have fervently lifted us up in prayer as we lived out our engagement, prepared for marriage, and yes - as we continue to face the challenges associated with my diagnosis.  You've loved us through thick and thin and so we wanted to take the opportunity to lift up everyone at that moment on our wedding day. 

I have to say - that time in the day came so quickly that I'm fearful my/our words were jumbled.  But, the Lord knows our hearts - and I guess our wedding video will reveal the truth too! (Haha.)

On that note, it's been on my heart to reach out for a little "extra" prayer this week.  After we returned from our honeymoon I had the routine round of labs that primarily check my CEA (tumor marker levels) and Calcitonin count - both came back more elevated than ever before, and so of course we panicked.  However, a quick call to the doctor revealed to us that we should not get overly anxious - levels can fluctuate - we needed to stay calm.  However, my August 1 appointment in NYC was moved up to this coming Friday just to see what is going on - to get some answers and continue to monitor things closely.

So, we're anxious; scared; worried; nervous; letting our minds wonder - we're being challenged as is any couple just 6 weeks into their marriage and then some.  We know this is in God's hands, we know this is for His glory, we know that this is the story he has called us to live-out.  But that doesn't change the fact that we have real fears, we have to discuss "things" that no one even wants to think about, and sometimes it's a challenge to repel the doubt that the devil puts on our hearts.  That being said, we KNOW God's faithfulness; we've SEEN God's faithfulness; we FEEL the grace He has bestowed upon our lives and we REJOICE in the blessings, trials and struggles that we face - because we know who goes before us and who stands behind us.

Please pray that our hearts might be prepared for my appointment on Friday and that we might find peace in the results and in this path the Lord has laid for us.  And as we pray each night - for healing, guidance and wisdom.

I always knew I was a blessed girl to have met Drew and to be able to share this life with him - and I am so thankful for such a faithful, God fearing and loyal man who I can now call my husband.  Together we are so thankful for each of you and the ways in which we can feel your prayers, daily.  We love you!

We have already been so blessed these past six weeks as we embark on this journey of "Mr. & Mrs." - there are exciting things ahead for the Dillons, and we know God has prepared the way and will provide for our needs as we strive to glorify him and live each day in His presence knowing that through Him we can face uncertainty with perfect peace.

Love,

Sarah Dillon

And for those that wanted to see just one more picture...Jamaica was amazing. :)

Six Weeks and Counting

As I sipped my tea and wrote this post earlier this morning I had a "moment," if you will, of being overwhelmed with thankfulness.  Not by coincidence (I'm sure) my devotionals this week have really focused on thankfulness in all seasons of life.  Here I sit six weeks away from one of the most important days of our life - Drew and I - we're REALLY about to be married!  I cannot even describe the weight that has been lifted off of our shoulders as we realize it really. is. coming.  The day will soon be here when we get to be husband and wife.  We are SO ready to start our life together - and we are beyond excited about celebrating with our family and friends on May 25.

Speaking of joyous days - we had a pretty great day on March 28.  First and foremost, we celebrated another year of my amazing Mom's life.  I won't announce her age - but my dad did feel the need to share over breakfast that morning that she still weighs the same as the day he met her...and to that he said, "How many guys can say that about their wives?!"  Great Dad, I'm sure Mom is just overwhelmed by your enthusiasm of her consistent weight (and even more enthused that I included it in today's blog - oops).  We all had to laugh - but with a bit of hesitation - as we sat in the 64th St. diner waiting to see Dr. Sherman at Memorial Sloan Kettering.  Those mornings are tough to describe; we are thankful to be seeing one of the best doctors; our nerves are through the roof as we anticipate the results; but there's also a sense of "God's totally got this."  That last feeling is what allows us to still laugh together even as we anticipate the doc's report.  God is so good, He is so faithful, and He is the Great Physician.  He's got this...it's too big for us.

So, we met with Dr. Sherman.  And my scans and lab work are stable.  Praise. the. Lord.  We looked at a calendar and he said, "Pick the date that you'd like to come back after your honeymoon - we'll see you after the wedding."  At that moment my pulse went from about 125 to 80 beats per minute.  Then, he shared some more news with us.  The research part of Memorial Sloan Kettering is offering a test to patients (that wasn't really available a year ago for people with my type of Cancer) - I'll be going for another thyroid biopsy (a 10 minute, non-invasive procedure) at the beginning of June.  This biopsy will be able to tell them why type of mutation I have that essentially is the cause for the Medullary Cancer.  This information will help us someday if/when we discuss a route of treatment because they will be able to specifically target the mutation (only the bad stuff), instead of using a general drug that might target the good and bad.  Patients who are able to make use of a mutation specific drug have had really great results - tumor shrinkage, slowing of the disease etc.  I won't need to have scans and the "whole work-up" until the end of July - so I'll see Dr. Sherman again in August.  Best feeling ever?  To be able to say - "See you at the end of the summer, and when I'm a 'Mrs.' doc."

The recap?  Dr. Sherman said this was all really his hope when I came to see him a year ago.  We have fourteen months of data on my specific Cancer and my scans and labs are virtually unchanged.  When my numbers are charted - it's a flat line.  This is a SLOW growing disease that I've had for a majority of my life (of course only having known for a year - but we trust that was all in God's timing).  We can have hope that treatment is a ways down the road, and that there will continue to be great advances in that treatment before the time comes for me.

Praise the Lord - am I right?!

Your prayers are felt and your continued support is so heartwarming.  We love all of you!  Please continue to pray for us as we field the challenges of these next six weeks - preparations, patience, excitement and heavy work schedules to manage.  And of course, as Drew and I pray together each day, for healing, guidance and wisdom.

Know that we're praying for all of YOU too!  To my USC friends who are beginning new jobs in new places - I am so proud of you!  The world of higher education is blessed to have you - and I know you'll make an incredible difference in the lives of your students!  And, to my little sister - who will graduate in just 4 weeks from college - we love you and can't wait to celebrate this great accomplishment (and cheer you on as you pursue even more education - woohoo!).

It's an exciting spring, and we're sending all of the glory up and living today in His presence knowing that through Him we can face uncertainty with perfect peace.

Hugs from PA!

Sarah

2014...Finally!

Hello all!

I promise I haven't forgotten about 'The Mustard Seed' - in fact I'm happy to share that I haven't provided an update in quite a while because life has been so busy in the best of ways!

You'll notice that we're back to the blog - it took me a year to muster up the courage to get back to Blogger, but I think it's time to have all of my updates archived together (and having a link makes it a lot easier to share with others).  It's kind of amazing, actually, to see it all together.  To scroll from top to bottom of all the entries puts together quite a story - sometimes hard to believe!

Quick health update - I had lab work in January and everything was stable - so I'm scheduled for the full work-up of scans etc. and a follow-up in NYC at the end of March.  After my appointment in January I had such anxiety about the results that I had awful muscle spasms in my back.  When things didn't calm down I took a trip to the ER with Drew.  We were beyond nervous that my 'pulled muscle' was a replay of last January, but a round of lab work and x-rays (and a muscle relaxer later) proved that it truly was all tension.  I felt so silly!  A 'clean' bill of health was such an answer to prayer that night (quite literally).  As we waited for test results Drew and I just started to pray, and literally seconds later the doc came in and said, 'Everything is clear, you're just fine.'  Praise God!

Please keep us in your prayers - all brides have some level of anxiety - this bride wants an A+ report to carry her through a spring/summer of newlywed bliss (haha)!  I'm feeling great - started exercising again (yay!) and busy as ever with work, family, friends and of course...wedding plans!  We're just 3 months away from the big day.  Finally!!

As many of you know, I still keep in close contact with my team of doctors in SC (after a long stay in the hospital, I've decided that they will forever be 'my' team)!  They are such an incredible group of individuals.  In fact, I had to smile when one of the docs e-mailed me to say, 'Is everything alright?  We look forward to your Mustard Seed updates and haven't heard from you in a while.'  It was really nice to know that they still care and are eager to hear of my progress.  In fact, that same team of doctors had the opportunity to present my medical case at a conference in Orlando on February 21.  While it was difficult to re-count my experiences to them, we are all hopeful that my story can help others.  One of the first doctors that saw me in the ER was going to give the presentation - he asked me to send some engagement photos to share with the group at the end of the lecture - we thought that was really sweet!

In other news - I'm 24!  Older and wiser - right?!  I had a fabulous day with family and friends on February 22 - Drew planned a surprise tour at a winery with a number of our couple friends, mom, dad and Amanda - it was such a special day and I so valued the time we were able to spend together.

Please continue to keep us in your prayers - they get us through each day, each month, each doctor appointment - it's the glue that holds us together. 

Living today in His presence, knowing that through Him I can face uncertainty with perfect peace,

Sarah

November 2013

Good afternoon!

I hope this e-mail finds my southern friends enjoying a warm day...because it sure is frigid here in PA!

Just wanted to send an update after a bit of activity this morning.  My last appointment was in July - I had a great report.  I had routine lab work done mid-October, and the good news is that everything came back "fine."  Actually, the test that measures my tumor markers had a sizable drop for the first time since February - praise the Lord.  My oncologist says this is "unexplainable" - but we're giving all the glory to the Lord and extending an enormous thank you to everyone for your continued prayers.

That being said, I received a call from the doctor's office this morning - the Calcitonin level (test that eventually led us to my diagnosis) is high.  We have known this since the journey began in January - however, the lab assay for this test has been incorrect since May - so my doctor wasn't putting much (if any) faith in this number.  However, the assay seems to be "fixed" and so in an effort to be extra cautious we're moving my December lab work & scans up to November 20 and 22.  Of course, as you can imagine, when the NYC area code came up on my desk phone this morning I about had a heart attack.  The nurse at MSKCC assured me not to get worried (easier said than done) - we're just being extra careful.

Please pray for these November appointments.  Wisdom for the doctors, a correct lab assay (I act like I know what a lab assay is - my Dad explained it once, but all I know is that I need it to be accurate - ha-ha!) and peace for my family and I as we anticipate another set of CT scans.

Now for some happy news - I feel FANTASTIC! Work is great - I'm loving my job.  It is amazing how we can have one plan for our life and then the Lord turns us in a completely different direction and we can find complete fulfillment in that - I feel so blessed to be where I am.

We are a little less than 7 months away from our wedding - sneak peak of our engagement photos attached!

And, last but not least, I moved to the home that Drew and I will call our "first place" this past week.  Three moves in one year took a toll, but we are SO excited about our new home - now I'll just wait for my groom to join me in May!  Until then, we're working to make it our own.

I know this e-mail has already taken too much of you time...but there is just one one more thing I would like to share...

A couple of months ago I was at the local farmer's market in Lancaster City.  As I waited in line to make a purchase at one of the stands, I turned around and who was there...? Sarah Yoder - my nurse, from 800 miles away...MY nurse from Palmetto Richland Hospital in Columbia SC.  It was incredible...and SO God that she was there (visiting friends).  We hugged and just kept saying, "This is crazy!"  She blessed Drew, my family and I in so many ways throughout my stay in the hospital.  I'll never forget when she saw the absolute desperation my eyes (and Drew's) as they wheeled me into the OR...she grabbed our hands and said, "Let me pray with and for you."  She's an angel, I tell you!

Okay, that's all - promise.

Sending hugs from PA and thanking you all for your continued prayer.

Sarah

August 2013

Good morning!

As many children across the country return to school today, it's funny...this is the first time in 17 years (did I do my math right?) that I have not returned to the classroom.  That being said, I know more than ever that I am where I need to be.  The Lord has proved his faithfulness time and time again - His love is truly unfailing as we have once again felt the power of His strong embrace.

I know many of you received a quick text on Friday after my NYC appointment, but nonetheless I wanted to send out a brief update.  Thankfully, the update is short and sweet...my oncologist said, "You are doing great, Sarah." In fact, I think he used the word "great" three times in the 20 minutes we spent with him...and believe me, I'm embracing every single one of them. There has been no progression since I became a patient at MSKCC in February.  My lab work looks good, I feel great, and the plan is not to have another CT scan until December.  For good measure I will have lab work done mid-October.  I was very proud to say, "Have a great fall, Doc, see you in the winter!"

Additionally, for those of you who are well aware as to how this started, we have finally gotten clarification on why my lung collapsed.  My type of Cancer can sometimes be associated with protein deposits in the lung, and in my case one of them burst.  After several biopsy reviews and a visit to the pulmonologist at MSKCC, they have concluded that there is nothing to be done at this time and if/when treatment becomes necessary the existing deposits will probably shrink.  My oncologist also shared with us some "exciting" clinical trials - it's always good to know that the experts are hard at work.

Finally, thank you.  Thank you from the bottom of my heart for your prayers, calls, texts, e-mails - you have no idea how incredible it is to feel the power of your prayer. 

Sending hugs from PA!

Sarah

July 2013

Good morning!

I hope this e-mail finds each of you enjoying your summer.  It's hard to believe that it is almost mid-July!

Just wanted to send out a brief mid-summer update, as I have some good news to share! 

I had complete lab work done on July 1, and received word this morning that my oncologist at MSKCC is comfortable with not doing CT scans/an office visit until the end of August.  Yipee!  Dr. Sherman has an incredible nurse who has been so gracious in corresponding with me throughout the past six months.  This morning she said to me, "no worries" with regards to my lab results.  It might seem silly, but those are two words I don't often have the luxury of hearing...especially from medical doctors.  So, that was a big answer to prayer..

Also, last week I received a job offer from Schreiber Pediatric Rehab Center - www.schreiberpediatric.org.  I have been the Interim Special Events Coordinator in Financial Development, but have been offered the permanent position - I will officially start August 5...my first big girl job, and I'll be making use of that PR degree from MU.  I am amazed by the ways that God has provided for me and for Drew as we begin to make steps towards building a life together.  Schreiber has been such a blessing - the people are incredible and the children who struggle day in and day out with varying disabilities remind me that we all have our own challenges to face, but it's how we face them that makes all the difference.  Many of you may be wondering about continuing my graduate work - that is on hold for now - I am just so thankful to be settled, working, and happy.  I am confident that the rest will come with time.

Drew and I went to our last of 5 weddings for the summer this past weekend, where we celebrated the incredible union of our very best friends - now Mr. and Mrs. Bobby & Brooke Rhoads.  It was definitely the highlight of our summer - we are beyond thrilled for the happy couple and felt so lucky to be part of their special day.  Now that we are finished attending weddings (for a little while), we are busy planning our own!  It is all very exciting and we cannot wait for our special day...318 days...but who is counting?

Sending hugs!

Love,
Sarah

May 2013

Good evening to my family and friends!

I hope this e-mail finds each of you well.  The past two months have been filled with an abundance of progress and therefore I am excited to send an update!

After receiving good news at my oncology appointment at the beginning of April, we wasted no time in putting together a plan to visit the south!  It did my heart such good to be able to arrive and depart from Columbia feeling physically strong and having had the opportunity to spend quality time (and a great quantity of laughs) with friends and new family! 

I was fortunate enough to spend a little over a week traveling between Hilton Head Island and Columbia.  One of the highlights of my Columbia visit was being able to attend the Student Personnel Association’s end-of-the-year banquet.  My classmates surprised me by voting me the “Most Outstanding First-Year of the Year”…let’s just say that resulted in a tearful and humbled “thank you" (see attached pictures).  Another Columbia highlight was having the opportunity to have lunch with the team of doctors that treated me at Palmetto-Richland hospital.  Having never seen me out of a hospital bed (or with freshly washed hair), it was certainly a pleasant reunion for everyone.  My mom and I also stopped by the floor I “lived” on for 2 ½ weeks with bagels for all of the wonderful nurses and patient care technicians who cared for me…and my parents!

After a great visit in Columbia and some island time in Hilton Head, Drew was able to fly into Augusta, GA where we spent 5 fun-filled days with the Gilchrist family (Drew’s sister’s family) – it was great to be “Uncle Drew & Aunt Sarah” – so sweet!  A visit to the Columbia zoo, a Blue-Grass festival, and genuine rodeo were just some of the highlights of our visit (see attached pictures).  Drew and I are so blessed with such fun, loving families, and are thrilled about bringing them together for our wedding next May.

After arriving home from our visit to SC and GA, it was time for some more change – on May 1 I was able to start a new job as the Interim Special Events Coordinator at Schreiber Pediatric Rehab Center of Lancaster County (www.schreiberpediatric.org).  Overall, May has brought a lot of excitement for Drew and I as I moved into an apartment in Lancaster City, we have started our pre-marital counseling, made additional wedding plans, and started to get more “connected” with our church, Calvary Church, in Lancaster.  We have been so blessed by all of these changes and not a day goes by when we are not thankful to be geographically close and both employed by great organizations.

So, that brings us to this past Friday where we traveled to NYC for another oncology appointment and this time an added pulmonologist (lung) appointment.  God is good and the power of prayer continues to overwhelm us as we received news that my blood work and CT scans showed that everything is stable.  This past Thursday marked four months since my lung collapsed, and to date my “images” are unchanged and therefore there is not a need for treatment at this time.  There will be some additional follow-up with the pulmonologist, as my doctors are not convinced that the “trouble” in my lungs is related to the Cancer (and thus the collapsed lung).  Additionally, I will have blood work in 6 weeks to check-in on everything, but Lord willing won’t need CT scans or an appointment in Manhattan until the end of August.   I remain without symptoms and am keeping as busy a schedule as ever – and for that, we are so thankful!

So, on that note – here is to a summer full of watching incredible friends tie the knot, spending time with family, and enjoying my engagement to the love of my life as we play our special day…May 25, 2014!

Thank you for all of your continued prayer.

Living today in His presence knowing that through Him I can face uncertainty with perfect peace –

Sarah

 

“Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope.  And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.”

~  Romans 5:3-5

The Mustard Seed

Dear family and friends,

WOW...what a crazy few months it has been for myself, Drew, and the Darling family.  As I put together the "recipient" list for this e-mail, I quickly realized how wonderfully diverse and far-stretched our support is, and am reminded of how each of you have continued to pray for us, care for us, and show your love (which has left us at a loss for words time and time again).

As you all know, this past August I packed up my life and headed to SC to begin a Master's degree program at the University of South Carolina.  Upon heading south I started a blog called, "The Mustard Seed," in an attempt to keep everyone updated on my adventures below the Mason-Dixon line.  Below is an excerpt from my first entry...

First, I know the burning question you all have - "Where did she come up with the mustard seed?"  Well, it's quite simple.  As I was packing fervently earlier this week, I came across a necklace given to my by my aunt and uncle that has a mustard seed in the pendant...I thought of the parable of the mustard seed.  From what I can remember, indeed the mustard seed is small, but when it grows, it really grows - and if I'm correct, it can grow among weeds and all other sorts of plants.  I was reminded of the thought that even as the mustard seed starts small, it quickly grows into a flourishing and sizable mustard plant.  So here is my analogy, I might be like a mustard seed now - but I know that USC and SC is where God wants me to be, and therefore I know He will use me in ways that I can't even imagine right now as I am planted in my new home.  My prayer is that I can flourish and grow in my faith, while demonstrating God's love to others, just as a mustard plant becomes deeply rooted and grows strong from a small seed. 

Now, let's fast-forward 6 months...and each of you have heard the varying versions of the "walk to class" and collapsed lung that changed life forever. Here is the new take on the mustard seed analogy: The Lord has literally used something a comparable size to a mustard seed to lead me in a new direction of life in which we are confident is being used to glorify Him in more ways than we could ever imagine.

The mustard seed object?  The 1cm tumor on my thyroid that to the best of my doctors' knowledge started to take it's toll on my body 10+ years ago, and led to the diagnosis of metastasized medullary carcinoma (Cancer) on February 13, 2013.  The good in it all?  I have no symptoms, this type of Cancer is slow-growing, I am not receiving treatment at this time (CT scans and more blood work to monitor things at the beginning of May), I am young, healthy (besides this whole Cancer thing), and I have the love of incredible family, friends, and one outstanding fiancé who have stood by me through it all!

So, it's simple.  I rejoice in each new day, I praise God for the large and small victories, I place my trust in the Lord, the power of prayer, and the promise of hope and peace we have in Him.  (And I'm already working with those in SC and PA to decide how I can continue to move forward with my degree, have made significant changes towards an all organic, Cancer-fighting diet (yum!), and enjoy planning our wedding for next May!)

I promise to keep all of you updated by means of the "new" Mustard Seed...this e-mail group.  I think it will be the best way to reach out to everyone when I have an update.  Everything should be quiet for the next 6 weeks or so, as we had good results at my oncology appointment (Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center) last week.  Also, do not feel the need to reply, I just want to keep everyone in the "loop" (feel free to forward it too, I tried to make sure I got everyone)!

Wishing you all a wonderful week,

Sarah Darling

A New Year...and some News!

I am almost embarrassed about how long it has been since my last post...

...BUT, I can promise that I have a pretty good reason :)

I believe my last update was prior to my trip to the Biltmore Estate in Ashville, NC.  I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to travel there for the day with my office.  One of the programs under the realm of our office is the National Student Exchange - and so our trip to the Biltmore was an opportunity for us to take some students from other parts of the United States to see a gem of the South!

After our visit to the Biltmore, life at USC got pretty busy - final exams, projects and end of the year reports quickly took over for the final two weeks of the semester.  Overall, it was a great first semester at USC as I found much success in my classes, at work and was able to share the fall with some truly wonderful people as we all navigate the challenges of graduate school and being far from our families.

At the end of the semester I traveled back to PA and quickly went into "Christmas mode" as I had all of my shopping etc. to do...including making a t-shirt quilt for Drew!  It was a very busy first week home, but I was so happy to finally be back in PA...both Mount Bethel and Lancaster!

AND THEN...it happened...

1. Drew was offered and accepted a new position with Hershey.
2. Matt, Carly & Eva came for a PA visit from Georgia and we got to celebrate Christmas with them and attend a Straight No Chaser concert.
3. I was able to go with Drew to visit his extended family in Baltimore - SO fun!
4. Drew was able to come to Mount Bethel with me for both Christmas Eve and Christmas.
5. Melissa, Mike, Aubrey & Katelyn visited from Arkansas for Christmas - it was SO wonderful to have EVERYONE together...all 9 girls!
6. Drew and I were able to celebrate New Year's Eve with our great friends (and the couple that introduced us!) Brooke and Bobby
7. I got to spend some great time in Mount Bethel with Mom, Dad, Amanda and Grandma...and we had some snow!
7. Oh, and on December 21 Drew and I went out for a lovely Christmas "date" where we exchanged gifts and...

...HE PROPOSED! WE ARE GETTING MARRIED!

 

Looking forward to my second HESA semester at USC :)

Love you all, miss you always & I promise to "post" again soon!

SCD





There's No Place Like Home for the Holidays

Hi all!

I hope everyone had a lovely Thanksgiving! I had a spectacular five days at home for the first time in almost four months, and have been anxious to update everyone on the latest in SC.

Everything is starting to come to a close for the semester here at USC - I cannot believe it!  While I have missed home since the day I arrived, I must say that the semester has really flown by.  We have just a week and a half of classes left and then a few final papers before I officially complete my first nine graduate school credits - here's hoping to land that 4.0 this semester? We'll see!

Work is still great, and this past week I found myself intentionally reflecting on how thankful I am for those that I work and interact with on a daily basis.  Our office truly has a great balance of hard working individuals, humor and overall passion for our work at this unviersity - I'm one lucky girl to be among such a fantastic bunch!

My little apartment is still standing, although sometimes I wonder what appliance might "go" next!  Since arriving I've had everything replaced besides the washer and dryer - I'm so thankful for the flexibility and willingness of the realty group, but sometimes wonder how the person before me survived?!  Let's just say it's a cozy little place that get's a "pretty penny" for rent because of its awesome location.  I've been awfully lucky to call it home this year, but look forward to changing things up next year and moving in with a super sweet girl that I met at USC and is in the same master's degree program.  Additionally, because of the close quarters, this is the first year I won't have a Christmas tree in the place I'm renting, but had to show some holiday spirit (and dress up our very beige hallway)!  A big thank you to Carly Gilchrist for the fun day of wreath making a few weeks ago!

 

So Thanksgiving...what a FUN five days!  It started off with one of the best surprises I've ever been able to give someone...and that someone was Drew!  Here is how it went...

1. I was originally supposed to fly home Tuesday night, but due to a last minute flight change I was lucky enough to be flying into an airport closer to home and at an earlier time.

2. Rather than tell Drew about my new travel plans, I called my best friend Brooke and her lovely fiance, Bobby, and together we set up plans for a double date (of which Drew thought would just be him and Bobby for dinner and bible study).

3. I arrive in Lancaster around 6pm on Tuesday evening - Brooke and I promptly head to the restaurant where we wait for Drew and Bobby to arrive.  While waiting, one of the employees at the restaurant was talking with us and found out that I was surprising Drew after not seeing him for 2.5 months (who's counting? This girl.)  Upon finding out about the surprise, she got me one of the restaurant's uniforms and told me to go behind the counter where your "order."  When the guys entered the restaurant she said "Hello there, how are you guys doing tonight?" which was my cue to jump up from behind the counter and say, "Hello, welcome to Seniorita Burrita, how can I take your order?"

4. So fun!  Surprise "execution" credit to Brooke Schreiter and Bobby Rhoads - you guys are the absolute BEST!

After Tuesday's surprise, I enjoyed a fabulous day in Millersville on Wednesday, having lunch, coffee and dinner with dear friends and co-workers that I have missed SO much.  Let's just say, I would love to settle for a while in that area of the state!

Thanksgiving day was wonderful, as I shared it with my parents, sister, grandma and fantastic family friends.  Friday, Saturday and Sunday were very relaxing and consisted of a brisk hike, double date with my parents, an afternoon at Starbucks while visiting some local shops, some extra sleep and lots of laughs.  So blessed and cannot wait to return home.

Until December...


PS: Here is a little teaser for my next post...this Saturday I'll be visiting the famous, Biltmore Estate in NC - it's all decorated for Christmas, and I cannot wait to get into the holiday spirit!  Pictures to come...

 Love you all, miss you always, and I promise to "post" again soon!

SCD

Fall Fun

Hello all!

I cannot believe I am able to say this...but I'll be making my first trip back to PA in just two short weeks!  I am beyond excited and cannot wait to dish out the hugs and kisses to everyone I've missed so much.

The past month in Columbia has encompassed all ends of the relaxed/stressed spectrum, as I spent five days with mom and dad on Hilton Head Island and have also completed a number of "big" assignments for my classes at USC.  Highlight: I've just completed and submitted my first article for publication to the Journal of Appreciative Education and am hopeful that I might be included in one of their upcoming publications!  Needless to say, I'll be thrilled to wrap up these next two weeks before Turkey-Day when most of my coursework will be behind me!

Fall break was a delight and came at a much needed time.  While I have absolutely loved everything about my time in Columbia, the time between Drew's visit after Labor Day and my parents visit was quite a stretch for me!

We enjoyed 5 days of biking, beach walks, good food, great talks and most importantly were able to give each other the gift of time together.  Priceless.

 

Check out some pictures from our island bike ride to South Beach, Salty Dog Cafe & Harbor Town.

 

 

 

After a few work-filled weekends, I had the opportunity this yesterda to enjoy some quality time with great new friends.  Yesterday we went to the Riverbanks Zoo (right here in Columbia - the one that Drew and I visited) and we got to feed the giraffes - and do some other great things, but that was definitely the highlight.



I can guarantee you a moment of laughter with this video of the monkeys yesterday!

 

The "icing on the cake" of this weekend was church this morning.  First Presbyterian of Columbia had their "Kirkin' o' the Tartan" Scottish celebration. It only happens once every two years, and today I was able to share this special service with two HESA friends.  Check out the video below for the post-service entertainment in the courtyard.  I would also be remiss to mention that after church this morning we shared a wonderful brunch at Harper's - loving that southern weekly tradition!



 

 

Hope you all enjoy the update!  I am so excited that the holiday season is approaching and I'll be able to share stories and experiences with everyone in person.  I must thank everyone for your thoughtful notes in the mail, Skype/FaceTime dates and phone calls.  While our time physically together has been limited over the past few months, I truly appreciate the time everyone takes to keep in touch - it makes the miles between us much more manageable.  As we approach the season of Thanksgiving, I am truly thankful and blessed by all my dear family and friends, near and far!

 

Love you all, miss you always, and I promise to "post" again soon!

 

SCD

 

 





The blogger is back!

To say that this post is long overdue is the understatement of the month!  Sorry to keep you all waiting.  I definitely have a lot to share, but promise to include lots of pictures for those of you who are more visual than read/write (yes, I'm being sensitive your learning/comprehension styles...can we tell I'm a student affairs junkie yet?)

So, hello loved ones!

All is swell here in Columbia, I'm not sure it's possible to put into words how much the Lord has blessed me since I made "the move."  The people, opportunities and atmosphere are all the perfect combination to keep me mostly distracted from missing all of...YOU!  At the end of this week I will have been here for two months.  In my mind I seem to have been here longer...I've started counting down the days until mom and dad visit, and I've also made my flight arrangements for Thanksgiving...I need some PA time!  More importantly, it's been approximately a month since my last post...so let's see if I can give you a little glimpse of what I've been up to...take a look at my "top ten!"

• Classes have been wonderful...I repeat classes have been wonderful and I'm actually enjoying my homework.  Shocking, I know!  My professors are incredible; their wealth of knowledge in the field and their willingness to help us grow and develop as incoming student affairs professionals is more than genuine.  That being said, I have a lot of work to do before Thanksgiving - presentations, submitting an article for publication, term papers and more!  However I can sincerely appreciate how applicable each assignment is to the degree we are all working towards...so that makes all the time and effort a bit more worth it :)

• Work is great!  Again, I cannot say how truly blessed I am to be in such a wonderful office.  Everyday I am excited to go to work!  It is a wonderful feeling.  As our program director tells us, you don't have to look far to realize that not everyone loves what they're doing - but if our heart is really into student affairs, we'll never work a day in our lives.  Let's see if I can make that happen!  Check out our Web site (and our head shots/profiles) at www.sc.edu/studentengagement!

Below is my supervisor and I having some fun at one of our office events - we really like to enjoy ourselves on those days out of the office...bungee jumping inflatable anyone?

 

(Warning: I couldn't move my neck for 2 days after this - haha!)

 



 

• Sundays...I've been attending First Presbyterian Church of Columbia and I have genuinely enjoyed the teachings and services.  The senior and associate pastors are incredible - I find myself "debriefing" after sermons with Drew because the teachings are so rich and really dive into the word.  The church is beautiful and I'm loving the "tradition."  I'll be sure to keep you posted, as I'm hoping to get involved with a women's group or attend the weekly lunch they hold on Sunday afternoons for college students - overall I'm really happy to be getting "plugged in" somewhere!

• One component of my assistantship is academic coaching.  For 3+ hours a week I have the opportunity to work with students who are on academic probation, are high achieving and need help balancing their schedules, and even freshman who are just getting their feet wet at this very large institution.  This past week I had 3 incredibly appointments and was truly on an academic coaching high.  I was SO motivated and encouraged by the students that I met with, and felt that I was truly having an impact.  These students are incredible individuals with outstanding aspirations and I feel so lucky to be able to help them.  In a nutshell, my time in Columbia has reaffirmed 110% that I have found my calling in SA (Student Affairs) and in helping students to reach their full potential within and beyond college...I'm so excited just talking about it!

• In addition to working with individual students across the spectrum, I have also been afforded the opportunity to be the academic coach for a fraternity at USC.  That's right my friends...real Greek life!  In case I haven't told you already, Greek life here at USC is a big deal - we have a Greek village here filled with mansions that house over 40 fraternities and sororities.  SO, this past week I had the opportunity to attend a chapter meeting with the fraternity that I will be working with...needless to say I was a bit nervous...but quickly was embraced by the 100+ men of the fraternity (that shall remain nameless)  I'm really looking forward to our partnership and the chance to have an academic interaction with a component of student affairs that is completely new to me.

• So as I write this, I'm having my morning tea with Drew over Skype...welcome to long distance relationships...you've got to get creative!  While many of you may know because of my excitement over Facebook, Drew came to visit the week after Labor Day and it was WONDERFUL!  He drove all the way from PA and met me in Columbia but stayed with his sister, brother-in-law and beautiful niece in North Augusta, SC.  I then headed to North Augusta for the weekend where we hung out at the river house, played with Eva and ate wonderful food!  Drew and I were quite taken with Eva - she has quite the personality and is definitely warming up to us.  One of the highlights of our time with her was the long bike ride we took with her in her "bike trailer!"  We had a blast :) I love him. :)

 
 

Drew made us laugh in this one!!

 Our last night together - we met at Aiken Brewing Company in Aiken, SC - so bittersweet!

 

• One of the great attractions we have here in Columbia is the Riverside Zoo.  Drew and I had the opportunity to visit (thanks to tickets from Matt & Carly!) and we had a blast.  My favorite were the giraffes!  I can't wait to go back and feed the giraffes - feeding was already over when we got there - but I've heard it's a great experience!  The zoo here does events for Halloween and the holidays...it's a great family place and lots of folks here get season passes.

• Now I wouldn't be a true USC student if I wasn't involved in some Gamecock football!  I promise you when I say I have never been more excited about a football game in my life.  Yes, I wore a dress.  All the girls here wear black dresses with garnet accessories.  I also got chills when the team came out of the locker room...the Gamecock's entrance is one of a kind!  You should YouTube it.

 

Courtney, Carly and myself!  SC friends and HESA classmates!

(HESA = higher education & student affairs)

That includes all of my updates for now...as I'm sure I've kept you reading long enough!  I'll try to keep up with shorter, more frequent posts.  The semester will continue to get more and more busy as the holidays approach, but I love keeping in touch with all my loves at home :)

Love you all, miss you always & I promise to "post" again soon!

SCD