June Thankful List

-Going out to eat at Jarabe with Liz and Sam and then walking on the 606 with them. Thankful for laughter and good conversation.
-Talking with Tiff over the phone and catching up after many months.
-Writing my pen pals (!!!)
-Making homemade ricotta cheese
-Serving at church
-I found myself at the gay bar last Tuesday at an event called Outspoken, where members of the LGBTQ community go onstage and share stories. A few weeks ago, Rick, a friend from my cohort, invited me to this event. He approached me and said, "Grace, I know you enjoy a good story or two and this event is a safe space where people tell wonderful stories. I think you would like it." Not really knowing what to expect, but being pleasantly surprised and very much honored that Rick would invite me into his world, I accepted. So... Last Tuesday I dragged Rebecca along and we found ourselves in the back of the room. It's true, I didn't know what the evening would hold, but I'm so glad I went. Six individuals spoke, and the stories ranged from one man's experience coming out to his very traditional, very Catholic, very Italian family to another man sharing about his 200+ weight loss and how ultimately, friendship was what catalyzed the weight loss. The stories were beautiful in their transparency and humanity and I felt touched and humbled. Also, I felt honored that Rick, knowing my strong faith background/inclinations, would think of me.

On a side note, I am determined to run the 2019 Chicago Marathon next year. I want to raise funds to run with World Vision. Next year, I'll be 26 years old and by the time the Chicago Marathon rolls around, will be approximately 2 months in. 26.2 years seems like an appropriate time to run a few miles, eh?