Saturday, November 17, 2007

It is over

The trips are finished. I didn't think I could be so happy just sitting at home, NOT packing to go somewhere for the weekend. Don't get me wrong, I LOVED all our little jaunts here and there. But I am ready to live out of my dresser and not my duffel bag.

We got back from Disney World and left two days later for Ann Arbor. Jason had an interview there for his fellowship. Then, we got back from An Arbor and I left two days later for New York. Such a fun girls trip. Then, we finished with a trip to Charlottesville, Virginia for another interview. And we are back. Ahhhhh. . . .. Big sigh.

Ann Arbor was super fun. We stayed with Lisa and Shawn and loved it. Truly some of our very best friends. And the cider mill was heavenly.

New York? Well, FUN FUN FUN. Delicious food, GREAT shopping and even BETTER company. It was just what I needed. Thanks Lisa, Emily and Arah. Or Debbie. I call her both. And Emily D. who lives in Manhattan and directed us to some of the best places. It was so great to see Emily D. after almost 5 years. You girls are wonderful and I had a blast with each of you. I will post pics and possibly an update about it later.

But now for your help. Where should Jason and I live for a year after Pittsburgh. We are fortunate enough to have the opportunity to go back to Ann Arbor, where Jason will finish his training in MSK Radiology. That has always been Jason's number one. But we also were offered the chance to go to Charlottesville for a year. Both are fantastic universities. So, what do you all think? Charlottesville was beautiful. Small. But I can do small for a year. :) Thanks to Amy and Ryan Quinn for hosting our family with great food and new friendships. I had a fun time with Amy all day getting to see the city, and eating all her pumpkin chocolate chip bread. What the heck?! I am on a diet! So, I am curious to your opinions.

It feels good to be here, sitting on my bum, in the living room, knowing I am going to our ward tomorrow and Christmas is around the corner. (That was random). :)

11 comments:

McKelle said...

Wow, I can only imagine the relief. Trips can be fun...but stressful. Hope you had a great time. As far as where to live...what about Utah? Okay, I hear Jake Daynes will be doing his residency in Michigan. Virginia would be cool too. What do I know? AND, are you coming to visit anytime soon or what?

Libby said...

which one is closer to visit from here :)?!

Jana said...

Michigan is closer. But only by 1 hour. :) And there isn't a program in Utah.

Libby said...

if it were just about where to live and not about the program...I would choose Virginia. You have already done Michigan (although it would be new for the kids). It is only for a year. Do something you normally wouldn't do. You would never live in a small area...so go for it. What a cool experience!

Gina said...

I really can't help you out with this one...I know I owe you for the airport ride, but it's going to have to be something else. I have never been to either place and I really don't know anything about either of them! If you've never lived in a small town, I think that might be a good experience, like Libby said.

Abbigail said...

COngrats on two offers! What could be better? I would vote for Ann Arbor, but I don't think we will still be here. So, whatever you think is the best. I guess the chance of us being in Virginia is higher than michigan.

Ann Arbor rules, so that is my vote. Our house will probably be on the market. ;)

Lisa said...

Go to VA and I'll never talk to you again. Listen to Jason!!!

Arah Debra said...

Wow Lisa don't hold back, tell her how you really feel. I Also vote Ann Arbor, b/c when ever I go see Lisa I can see you too.

Kimo said...

We looked at Charlottesville last year when we were trying to decide where to live. I really liked the area, and there are some interesting things to see down there (Monticello, and Shenendoah National Park). I say go with the program that suits your family best, because that will make the biggest difference. VA might be really fun for a change, especially because you know it will only be temporary (unless you fall in love with the area and decide to stay - don't laugh, it could happen). How soon would you be moving? It seems like it is really far away to already be doing interviews.

Jana said...

It is really far away to be doing interviews. We still have 19 months here. Dumb. But I guess it gives us PLENTY of time to plan. And be sure to do everything we wanted while here in Pittsburgh! :)

Daynes Family said...

Hi Jana. I think you should take it to Michigan. Did you know that we would live like 30 minutes from you guys? It would be fun to come over to Sunday dinner every week! That's awesome you guys are already getting ready to be finished. I have a buddy going to pittsburgh for fellowship. I start residency on Monday. A little nervous. Did you read about Callahan Williams and his little girl? Go to Deseret News and search his name. God bless them. Amy taught me how to make a post. Tell Jason good job. This is really exciting and well-deserved. Hope all is well with you Jana.

Jake