Chatting

 Guessing this is the perfect portrait for the empty nest.  Not sure we will ever get used to it - though is interesting to see what is is like with the house so quiet - kids all in university, Juvy back in the Philippines, Chocolate (sadly) not here any more, and lots of quiet.  

Great to hear about Rania's first week of school - sounds like some great classes!

 

ND Visit

 Before heading to Athens for her College Year Athens (CYA), Gabi wanted to stop and see some of her friends in South Bend.  As many of them will be away for Spring Semester, and Gabi will be away for Fall Semester, she realizes it will be an unusual year - and so many incredible experiences to look forward to!

 

Rambler Event

 Not sure that Ramblers (a type of wolf?) are ever so cute - and great for Rania and her friends to be part of a fun event before the first day of classes. 

 

Chicago Sights

 Rania had another day when they had the chance to go to choose some of the popular destinations as part of being in Chicago.  Pretty cool to get to go to the Zoo - and delightful to see the animals, as well as along the Chicago River. 

Such a cool picture!
 

A Celebration

 Courtney and Zach had a rather epic birthday celebration for Courtney that involved a scavenger hunt through much of Central Market and downtown KL.  Doug didn't make it to that part, but did join for the fun after the event in their place. 

 The view from their balcony and main room is also quite impressive! 

Chicago Events

 They had a convocation for all the incoming class at Loyola, as well as arranging city tours and chances to see some of the city that will be home for the next four years. 

 

Carmen Out

 Tis the season for sending daughters to university.  Carmen is off to McGill in Montreal and all ready for her studies.  A nice picture from Cata that was sent to the group chat. 

 

Night Swim

 With the park within walking distance and all the fun and adventures of the first days on campus, Rania, Ana and some friends went for a quick swim in Lake Michigan. 
 

Inside Out

 They had Inside Out playing on the quad in the commons - a great outdoor movie night event - and good to see and hear of Rania's connections with friends as orientation week continues. 

 

Around Campus

 Some pictures from the final day of orientation and seeing how things are going, getting to know some of the amazing spaces on campus. 

Lots of reading to be done (even, perhaps with real books) from both inside and outside the library. 

Working or studying in the Information Commons is definitely something that one could get used to.  What power in having a view of the water.  Amazing!

Seems like a good enough place to rest and relax, enjoying the beauty of the campus - though only if the wind isn't too bad. 
 

Lake Michigan from Loyola Campus

A quick shot from orientation weekend - August 2024 - with the view from the edge of Loyola's campus.

New Home

 Here are pictures from the first full day on campus, including the view of Francis, her residence hall. 

 

Staying

 Tracy found a nice Airbnb with a downstairs bedroom as part of a family home.  Super close to Loyola, it was a great location and much better price options than any other alternatives. 

 

Reception

 Loyola had a reception with a stunning view for the parents and families of international students.  The students, in the meantime, had orientation sessions and opportunities to connect with other students. 

Sisters of first year students - Natasha and Gabi get a picture with Amy.  

There is a pretty small portion of the universe that includes those who have taught at ISKL and have had daughters go to Loyola University.  In fact, these may be the only two moms that fit that category. 

Pretty sure that Rania is in the group on the grass right by the water.  Couldn't ask for better weather for the first day of university orientation. 

Such a scenic location right on the edge of Lake Michigan. 

 

With Friends

 So wild that Ana, one of Rania's best friends through middle school and 9th and 10th grade is going to the same school!  Fun to connect with Ana, her sister and her mom during the orientation days for international students. 

Ana's room has a nice view - in a different dorm and not too terribly far, given the compact nature of an urban campus. 

 

Moving In

 Upon arrival, there were lots of people helping to get things to the right room - and so great to make it and get a first glimpse of the room - with a triple, there is lots of extra space.  Sharing a bathroom with the adjoining room should also not be too bad - and nice to have that convenience. 

Also, with an urban campus, there are plenty of places to get some good food -Mexican sounds like a great first Chicago meal!

 

Packed Up

 Jason and Nicole had some extra lightweight bags to help with moving things in - as they had just taken Kaiden to Cedarville, so those came in helpful in getting ready to go to Loyola.  All packed up and ready for the trip!

 

Nephews

 Fun to get over to Jason & Nicole's and to enjoy being with family again. 

 

Porch & Freeze Daddy's

 Nothing quite like the arrival to enjoy being out on the porch as well as getting another visit to Freeze Daddy's.