We packed with the help of friends, we traveled with the help of our family, and now here we are alone. We waved goodbye to my mom today for the final time until Christmas as she took the train to the airport. Ryder said what we were all feeling as he sighed sadly and said, "I miss Gramma." We miss everything and everyone familiar, so immediately after saying goodbye we immersed ourselves in our new town with Daddy at the wheel, the boys sleepy in their car seats and me clutching our new map!
Here's a run-down of what we've discovered and experienced so far in the 7 mile wide town of Urbana-Champaign, IL. We've found park after park after park, some with lakes, others with walking-biking trails and all with green grass and beautiful mature trees. It's beautiful. We found our huge, brick public library that borders the University of Illinois as well as a neat aquatic center down the street from our house complete with water slides and pools. Ryder, being fascinated with watching the divers in the Olympics right now, can't wait to jump into the water there! 
Each night we've walked about 10 minutes to a park connected to the elementary school around the corner in our neighborhood. The boys love the playground, climbing all over the bridges and jungle gyms, and love to watch the football team practice some night we're there. One day my mom discovered a walking trail connecting to the park that lead to a church in one direction and alongside a fairy-tale-like tree lined creek backed up by beautiful houses and quaint bridges the other way. John and I walked along looking at each other asking, "Is this place for real?" We know the winters get cold but we arrived in the perfect pocket of weather with no humidity and cool blue skies waking us up each morning.
Truly gorgeous.
Our tour of the University of Illinois was given by Daddy who beamed as we walked across campus and he showed us the stadium, band building and rehearsal halls he'll be spending most of his time in. Old but grand brick buildings represent their legacy of scholarship since 1837...incredible. We're excited to cheer along the "Fighting Illini" in that stadium as the town gathers and the band plays.
Though we hadn't planned visiting an Urgent Care facility so soon, we traveled there tonight after Ryder had a high fever for 3 days and we didn't see signs of it slowing on it's own. We walked in to a brand new building on the edge of town next to the corn fields. We saw the nicest nurse and doctor within 15 minutes in the the most beautiful facilities, complete with a kids waiting room with a fish tank and books.
It seems that the more we see and experience here, the more confirmation we recieve from God that he has not only called us, but wants to bless us in the process of our obedience to "go." I know that any "suffering" we experience will produce depth of character that God desires for us to develop individually and as a family. We are praying to develop friendships, especially for the boys as Ryder misses his friends and still asks to go to their houses to play. I know as we continue to step out in faith beyond my introverted comfort-zone, we will receive more blessing and see more of who God is through others. What a gift to be a part of this new community. We truly wait in anticipation for what God has for us here!
We miss you guys so much and are praying for God's grace and blessings to carry you into this part of your life-journey. You are loved!
So fun to hear how things are going! We have been praying for you! I am so glad that things seem to be going well so far! Today, Jacob was talking to his cousin and out of the blue said "did you know my friend Ryder moved to Illinois?" I know he misses you guys! So do I! See if there is a nice hotel nearby because we would LOVE to come visit!
Sarah
We are so glad God is blessing your obedience. It sounds like you have moved to a beautiful place. I loved growing up in Michigan and Indiana. We'll continue to pray for a smooth transition. Love,The Eagles
WOW! Sounds like you are surrounded by beauty! Can't wait to visit you guys. We miss you a lot. It is so weird driving to Vons and thinking about how you are not down the street. Anthony said today "When are we going to go to a new house like Ryder?" I think he may be a little bit jealous. :) Seriously though, you are deeply missed and loved! We are praying for you and can't wait to visit you soon! :) ~ Clara
So thrilled to hear that you are settling in!
Hi Burdett Family! So much fun to read your blog, I have been so curious and thinking of you all daily. I know Darcy is home today and proably resting so it was great to hear from you and get the scoop before I check in with her. It sounds so beautiful and exciting! That is how I imagined it. I know it will be a wonderful experience to try new things and see life from a different perspective. I am so happy for you and know you will settle in soon. Hope Ryder is feeling better. All our love, Auntie Ine and Uncle Marcelo.
So happy to hear your news. Keep up this blog, so fun to hear what is going on and how you are all doing. Ooooohh, I bet your mom is missing you guys. Good luck on this new adventure! Love, Aunt Michele
I am so glad you're here. Listen, this is very important: Sufjan Stevens made an entire album about the state of Illinois called: Come On! Feel the Illinois! I imagine that everything you'll need to know about illinois is on that record.
Hello Burdett Family!
We are thrilled to hear that you are doing so well. God is amazing and will continue to bless your family during this new chapter in your lives. We miss you and think of you often!
Love, The McConnells
HI Danice!! I'm so glad you have started a blog so that we can keep up with you from a distance. I'm excited for you guys in this new adventure!!! Love, Traci
I love reading blogs - and yours will definitely be on my list! God bless you as you settle into your new home - how exciting!
Fiona
Hello there!
Thanks for including us in your updates! This seems like such an exciting adventure, one that Rick and I often talk about having the courage to do ourselves! From your description is sounds majestic and I couldn't be happier for you. FOr now, I will log onto the blog and live vicariously through you!! Take Care and Can't wait for the pictures!@ Love, The Stidham family