A New Year. a New set of classes

As many of you know I am now starting my second semester of college in Grand Rapids.  Just this past Monday was the first day of my second semester and as predicted it was filled with new classes, new professors, and new stresses.  But overall I've had a pretty good week and my classes seem like they will be hard work, but interesting at the same time.  From the outside it looks like I've been having a fairly enjoyable week, but what most don't see is the fact that despite almost a month at home I have still faced some homesickness and sad moments about being back in school and not being able to enjoy my family and friends back home.  Unlike some students I don't get to go home that often and with a new schedule and classes life can seem pretty scary, especially when you're without the people closest to you.
I mean who wouldn't' miss this cutie?

 

These pictures were actually taken in the woods surrounding the beautiful Aquinas campus when my parents were visiting during the end of September.  You can read about our Art Prize adventure and see some pictures in my last post and for now I'll leave you with a few more pictures from the weekend my parents were in town and I'd just like to say how grateful I am that they came and explored such a great event with me and took me out to breakfast the next day.  It was a great weekend and it means so much to me that they are proud of my accomplishments so far in school and that they miss and care about me.  It may seem like that's how all parents all, but I've come to learn that it's not.  College, especially, has taught me that not all kids have special relationships with one parents let alone with both.  I never take for granted anymore the moments I get to spend with the ones I love and I try to tell them frequently just how much they mean to me and help motivate me through life.  I honestly don't know if I would be in college and doing as well as I have been without the support of my family and friends.  I push myself to succeed, but getting letters, care packages, and visitors just makes it all the more worthwhile and enjoyable.  Just knowing someone is thinking about you makes life so much more worth living.