Internship: Week 1

Since last Sunday, we've been in Michigan, where Mark is doing his internship at Black Swamp Percussion. We're staying in the Grand Rapids area, about 30 minutes from his work and also 30 minutes from Mark's Aunt and Uncle. (Lots of cousins live in the area, too!). Our place is also close to a beautiful mall, shopping centers, and lots of restaurants, which is really fun. We'll be here for 3 more weeks in order for Mark to get the hours he needs (working full time, M-F).

We're staying in the large two bedroom, two bathroom apartment with one of Mark's coworkers and his wife. (Well, actually, they're on their honeymoon, so we'll only be sharing the space for our last two weeks here). The complex is in a beautiful area--it's like living in the middle of a forest! It's also right along the Kent Trails, which is a long bike/walking path in this area. It's a great place to get a walk and enjoy some pretty scenery!

The road that winds through the apartment complex.

The view from our living room.

The entrance to Kent Trails.

Kent Trails

There are beautiful wildflowers all along the trail.

 

We've also been able to spend some time with Mark's family in the area, which has been really nice. On Tuesday night, we went to our aunt and uncle's house for a cookout with all the cousins and their families. It was a great time to see everyone (but I didn't think to bring my camera!). 

Then, on Thursday, I went with the ladies in the family to pick raspberries. I'd never done that before, and it was pretty fun. We also had lunch together and spent some time chatting in the afternoon. It made me remember how nice it is to live near family--I think I'll really miss that again when we move back to BG at the beginning of August!

The raspberry farm...patch...vines?

Aunt Debbe Jo with Adele (Mike and Sarah's daughter)

We filled two of these trays (that's 20 pints!)

Adele, Sarah, Aunt Debbe Jo, and Christy

Mark's been busy with work, but I think he's adjusting to the schedule. The worst part, it seems, is the commute. We're pretty spoiled by living so close to school in BG! He's been able to do something different each day at work, and the people there have been really friendly and easy to work with. I think it's going to be a great experience!