Great is Thy faithfulness.

Dearest family and friends,

On November 7, 2010 we blogged;

"Upon coming to this decision (to join the PCA), we starting hunting for churches as soon as we moved to St. Louis. It only took our second Sunday here to find our home. Here's a story...

One of Katelyn's "criteria" for a church was that it be big enough that people wouldn't notice we were new, if we were out of town, or if we walked in late on any given Sunday. Well, when we visited South City Church (our new church) within 30 seconds of finding our seats Vivian, a wonderful 92 year-old lady, gave us a warm welcome: "I didn't recognize the back of your heads! Are you new?" All to say, we walked out knowing that this was our new church family.

Since then, we have officially become members, joined a community group, and had a blast getting involved. Katelyn is now a nursery coordinator and I've been playing drums every other Sunday. We couldn't feel more at home with our new church family. It is a joy and blessing to be here." 

Since that day four years ago, our church has undergone many, many transitions. From a new building to staffing changes, to doubling in membership size. It has been a blessing and a challenge to be a part of it, and we've been stretched in wonderful ways. We couldn't feel more at home. 

Four years ago, we began praying that this time in seminary would be fruitful and that we would leave feeling energized for ministry.  We also began to pray that somehow we would be able to make St. Louis our home--not just during our four years while Sam was in school. What that would look like? We had no idea. Often (very often), you hear the seminarian circle ask, "what would your dream job be right out of seminary?" Honestly, our "dream" has been to stay here. This is a city we have come to love--a city that has broken us out of our comfort zones and has stolen our hearts! We hoped, we prayed, and we prayed some more, that after seminary God would provide some outlet of ministry experience for Sam that would allow him to be shepherded, encouraged, stretched, and keep us here in the city. We would have never dreamed that God's provision would not only keep us in St. Louis for at least 2 more years, but would provide Sam with ministry experience within our church family.

Just because I think he's cute -- I thought I'd include a pic :)

Today it was announced to our beloved church family that Sam will be coming on staff this summer as part of a new apprenticeship program (!!!!!!). God hears our prayers. We are so excited to see what the next few years hold at South City Church. We will be raising full support in order for Sam to stay on staff, and appreciate any and all prayers in the process! We know God will provide--He has overwhelmed us with his provision during these past four years.

We are so blessed and we couldn't feel more at home.

With thankful hearts,
Sam & Katelyn

 “Great is Thy faithfulness!” 

“Great is Thy faithfulness!“
  Morning by morning new mercies I see;
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided—
    “Great is Thy faithfulness,” Lord, unto me!

Winter 2014

Hello family and friends,

We hope the new year is treating you well. We had four wonderful Christmas celebrations in five days and rang in the new year with Chinese food and an early bedtime. We're old at heart. The year is off to a busy, snow-filled start.  Never would you ever hear me say I'm ready for the summer that is St. Louis, but this winter is rough! I'm enjoying my third snow day of 2014 today! Since there has been a lull in our blogging, I'll update through a few pictures - because who doesn't love pictures ...

Our new favorite way to spend our snow days is by playing Rummy. Ethel is super helpful when it comes to playing cards.

One highlight of January was my bestie coming to visit! Kelsey spent a weekend with us (unfortunately Sam had to work), catching up on life, giving Ethel lots of belly rubs and eating good food. I am so excited that we are finally in the same time zone and driving distance from each other now. We are looking forward to visiting Kelsey, Tim and Toby in Milwaukee soon!

 

We had more visitors this month - mom and dad! Yay! Sam went out of town for a four day conference in Grand Rapids and my parents came down to visit last weekend. My dad had work to do in St. Louis, so my mom and I had some quality mother-daughter time. My dad joined us Friday night for a delicious dinner at Dewey's pizza, and we enjoyed a yummy breakfast at Southwest Diner Saturday before they headed out.

Picture taken on a rare 60 degree day this winter (I know, bizarre). Sam is in his last semester of seminary! I would like to say, where did the past 3.5 years go? But although it feels surreal that our time in seminary is coming to an end, we feel very ready. Proud of my hubby. He's in full swing of classes, church internship, deacon duties, leading our community group and volunteer work with the youth. Never a dull moment around here!

And in the same week as our 60 degree day, we also had a 15 degree day! Here is my sweet class and I during our hike over to Tower Grove Park. We lasted about 15 minutes before freezing our tails off! We enjoyed seeing a camouflaged bird in her nest and comparing trees in fall and winter.

To end on a cute note -- look at that snuggly dog.

Until next time - much love from us, 
Katelyn and Sam

Christmas Letter 2013

Dear family and friends,

We hope you enjoyed your Christmas celebrations, and are able to find rest during this busy season. We wanted to give you a brief update on our lives this past year.

Sam is in his final year of seminary and I couldn't be more proud. The past 3.5 years have definitely drawn us closer, but not before breaking us and stretching us first. Seminary is not for the weak! Sam has continued to amaze me with all he is learning and the man God is shaping him into. A quote comes to my mind when I think of Sam --

“A great man is always willing to be little.” - Ralph Waldo Emerson
  
Seminary has been humbling in more ways then one, and Sam has continually put others before himself. He is a prayer warrior for our marriage, and continues to amaze me with the way he intentionally loves those around him. Sam also continues to work part-time at Apple Inc. and is keeping busy interning with our church, South City Church. He also continues to play drums every Sunday for worship and volunteers as a leader with the city youth ministry. In his "spare" time he enjoys listening to music, playing music, reading, and brewing coffee in fancy ways. 

I am still loving teaching at South City Community School (you can watch a short video about the school here: http://www.sccommunityschool.org/about-us/). I have an energetic group of 16 first graders this year! They keep me on my toes, and their curiosity keeps me desiring to learn more myself. I'm biased, but there can't be any greater job than the nurture and growth of a love for learning in the hearts of little people! I've also taken on a new responsibility at school this year as the After-School Coordinator, which has been great. I continue to teach Children's Worship at church once a month and serve on the Welcoming Committee. I too volunteer with the city youth ministry -- its been great for Sam and I to serve together with the kids every Monday night.

This past summer we moved to South City and have loved every minute of living in our new apartment--including our first dishwasher (!!!!) and a 10-minute walk to Tower Grove Park, one of our favorite places in the city. Unfortunately, or fortunately, we also live within walking distance of our favorite doughnut shop (World's Fair Doughnuts)! Another highlight of our year was a trip to California (Napa and San Fransisco) during the summer to celebrate our 3rd anniversary. We felt very fortunate to have the opportunity to get away and enjoy some much needed rest!

As for Ethel, she continues to be the most laid back dog - sometimes we just refer to her as a "house plant." We couldn't be more thankful for the entertainment, laughter, and overall cuteness she adds to our lives.

It has been a very busy, fast paced year but we are thankful for all of the good gifts God has given us. We are continually reminded to slow down and enjoy life where we are, as challenging as it can be some days. We are thankful this Christmas season for the greatest gift of all - Jesus coming to earth to live among us. We look forward to the joyous day when he returns!

We would love to hear from you, and wish you all a blessed 2014!

Love, 
Sam, Katelyn & Ethel

Rest.

This past weekend Sam and I got away to rural Missouri to a quaint bed and breakfast. With a town of 263 people, all we really enjoyed was each other. It was perfect. About two hours from STL, we debated whether or not it would be worth it  -- between the cost of the b&b, gas, a significant drive, finding Ethel care, etc. it wasn't easy! Let me tell you, it was every penny/hassle worth it. The break in routine was exactly what we needed. Its amazing what not emptying the dishwasher in the morning, packing lunches, or taking out the dog can do for you!

The Amber House, Rocheport MO

The in-room fireplace was perfect for the rainy weekend!

This was our first real bed and breakfast experience -- all four couples that stayed at The Amber House met for breakfast at 9am. The breakfast was amazing and it was so neat to share a meal with so many interesting people! The couple that runs the b&b was wonderful as well.

The bed and breakfast backed up to the Katy Trail. We took a nice stroll on Friday when we first got in, but we didn't make it very far before the sun set.

Thankful for the mini-retreat! So great for our marriage, and our sanity!

Being able to get away from the hustle and bustle of life was wonderful. We were so very thankful for this time away, for the money we could save to make it possible, for the approved time off for Sam, for good friends that took in E, and most of all for-- rest. Good rest, and good quality time enjoying each other. I am so blessed by this man, and so thankful that God delights in the good gifts He gives His children -- which includes a night away to retreat.

Until next time.
Sam & Katelyn

Fall 2013

Hello family and friends,

I'm sorry for the blogging break. I promised my wonderful mother-in-law that I would blog during her recovery from ear surgery to give her something to read :) , so here it goes!

In unison with the rest of our time in seminary, life is very busy. Sam is working his tail off to finish this last year! A full class load, an internship, volunteering with a city youth ministry, a newly installed deacon at our church, and not to mention a very valued Apple employee. All the while loving his wife (and little dog) well. He's got quite a full plate! 

Youth night in September!

 I am enjoying my second year teaching 1st grade at South City Community School. I have a class of 16 (11 boys, 5 girls) this year and we're off to a great start! We're finally starting to get in the groove of school, just in time for Thanksgiving break next month :) I had parent/teacher conferences last week and really enjoyed the support and encouragement from all my kiddos parents. This school has been such a blessing! I'm still volunteering with our city youth ministry, as well as leading Children's Worship at church.

Our enrichment trip to Tower Grove Park this month!

This month we were very thankful to see so much family! We enjoyed having Jim and Gaye here to see Sam preach 2 weeks ago at our church. Sam rocked it! We enjoyed a delicious lunch at Pho Grand (Vietnamese) and a little visiting before they had to head back to Wheaton.

They also came to visit the morning Sam was installed as a deacon at our church! I didn't get any pictures from Sam's sermon morning, so this one will do :)

We also made a trip to Wheaton last weekend! We got to see Jesse Dean light up the football field and had some great time visiting with the Dean family Thursday-Saturday. So proud of my little brother (can he still be considered little when he's bigger then me? And 17?), for these past 12 years of devoted football playing! We spent the night at Jim and Gaye's on Saturday and enjoyed spending Sunday morning going to church and lunch before heading back to STL.

 

 

Taken at the chilly football game last Friday night!

 As for our other 1/3rd (?), Ethel gets cuter everyday.

Thankful for this beautiful fall weather!

Until next time,
Sam and Katelyn

July 2013.

Here comes July! 

First stop, Indiana. The weekend after July 4th we headed to the annual Haist Family Reunion! Not before seeing three of Sam's favorite bands in concert that Friday! We saw Bob Dylan, My Morning Jacket, and Wilco - Sam was basking in all things "Americanarama".

Sam and I enjoying a morning on the farm. 

So thankful for Grandma and Grandpa Haist. Their marriage is a such a beautiful testimony to us.

It was a wonderful weekend spent with family! 

Next stop. CALIFORNIA. I feel like it is almost doing the trip an injustice to try to explain how wonderful it was, because it was just that wonderful. But I will try. It was refreshing, relaxing, and just what we needed. We didn't know just how much we needed it until we were driving through the mountains, standing in the Pacific Ocean, experiencing fine wine, and just purely enjoying each other. At the risk of sounding too mushy, I will say that taking this trip was so great for our marriage - this time without the constant interruptions of life. This time of soaking in God's magnificent creation. This time of talking, laughing, and experiencing. It made me sad to realize how much the business of our lives interferes with the joy of being married. To sit and have real conversations for a whole week that didn't revolve around our dinner menu for the week, or updating our calendars, or the gossip of our jobs, or complaining about feeling exhausted, etc. etc. etc. This trip was meaningful for so many reasons - but one of the greatest being we spent a week in one of the most beautiful places we've ever been, truly enjoying this sweet time together. And being so thankful for the blessing of our marriage. Here we go with an overload of pictures! 

First stop, Napa Valley. Vineyards. Wineries. Mountains.

At one of our favorite wineries, Sterling Vineyards. Breathtaking views! 

Taken at our last winery, Artesa. My personal favorite. Built into the side of a mountain! One of the neatest things we learned at Artesa was what a huge roll the food chains plays in the protection of the grapes. Our tour guide explained that the deer love grapes, but the coyotes that linger in the mountains keep them clear of the vineyards (not by eating them, just their presence). The hawks that perch in the vineyards and have no interest in the grapes, keep away the rodents and the snakes in the vineyards take care of the larger bugs that linger. It was pretty crazy to hear how nature protects the grapes so that no tampering or pesticides are needed. 

Upon leaving Napa, we decided to take the long route to get south to San Francisco. We drove west to Highway 1, and down the coast. As we reflected on our trip, we would both have to say this was one of our favorite parts. As we came around the bend of a cliff, we laid eyes on the Pacific Ocean, and it literally brought me to tears! It was so breathtakingly beautiful. 

Walking down into a valley to get to the ocean. 

My first time seeing the Pacific Ocean! 

It was pretty chilly.

And then we crossed the Golden Gate Bridge! San Francisco here we come!!!

It would be an understatement to say that our trip was very "coffee-centric"! Here's my very happy hubby the morning after arriving in San Francisco with his first (of many) expressos at Blue Bottle. Our coffee adventures included Ritual Coffee, (3) Blue Bottle locations, and Four Barrel. We also went to a coffee tasting, or in coffee geek terms, "cupping". 

Can you see Sam super tiny right there? One of our other favorite days was hiking around Muir Woods and admiring the magnificent Redwoods. It was seriously unbelievable. 

While in San Francisco, we did one day of being 100% tourists. We took one of those big open roofed tour buses for a three-hour tour of the whole city. We saw that sea lions at Fisherman's Warf, drove down Lombard Street (after waiting for 45min in the line), we walked the park across from the Painted Ladies (where Full House was filmed!), and we indulged in an amazing Ghirardelli sundae. After that day, we were wiped! We decided that being tourists is exhausting work. The city was beautiful, and the weather was absolutely perfect. That being said, the next few days in San Francisco we decided to hang low. Walking around Golden Gate Park and the Japanese Tea Garden. We also visited an adorable part of the city with used book stores, great coffee, and nice parks. We also ended one of our days by driving to Half Moon Bay, eating the best BBQ pork from a food train, and walking along the beach in 50 degree weather! The other crazy thing about northern California is the super dense, intense FOG!

One thing that was definitely not lacking on this trip was -- food. Oh my, did we eat amazing food! We found some amazing restaurants (thank you YELP!), and had some low key meals in our cute studio apartment a few of the days. Our last night in San Francisco we went to Fog Harbor on Pier 39, and I ate crab for the first time! It was to die for! Can you go wrong with a cup of melted butter? We ate our hearts out.

And then... it was time to head home. One of my favorite coastal driving pictures (above). We boarded our plane back to Chicago where we were greeted by Jim at the airport, fed an amazing meal by Gaye, hugged by a drugged up Ben (from getting his tonsils removed!), and finally reunited with the Dean clan and our sweet pup. We were so thankful for Mom and Dad Dean, Krista, Jesse, and Aunt Chrissy's care for Ethel while we were gone. She definitely went through some serious withdrawls (I wish I was kidding). Including, but not limited to, coming in from a walk and sitting in front of the door of the pantry where we keep her treats, staring at her dinner and wondering why it wasn't sprinkled with cheese, and whining at 5am wondering why we were ignoring her and not letting her run around and play with us. Nonetheless, she enjoyed all the attention and was definitely spoiled! 

And now we are back to STL in the thick of life again. So thankful for our beautiful vacation. Also thankful to have been married 3 years this month! What better way to celebrate an anniversary then with intentional time together, and in California for pete's sake! I am so thankful for Sam. For the wonderful husband he is, and for the selfless example of Christ he shows me each and everyday. He's a keeper!

Until next time. 

With love, 

Katelyn & Sam

Home sweet home.

Greetings from South City!

We have moved! Yippie! This is now officially the second place we have lived in 3 years, and our second home together. We love it. Not only do we have an outstanding landlord, but our neighbors are wonderful. We know all of the couples, and as it turns out all are in some way Covenant Seminary- related.

Perhaps the best part about our new apartment is that we can walk everywhere. We have a beautiful, tree-lined street, a friendly neighborhood, and best of all -- Tower Grove Park is a 5 minute walk! We are enjoying all that is South City. Botanical Gardens (free on Saturday mornings), World's Fair Donuts (just blocks away), AND biking over to my school to get some work done this past week!

Now, Ethel did not think that move was the greatest idea we've ever had. We actually resorted to buying "calming treats", which in fact could compare to doggy marijuana. They did the trick until she finally felt settled and at ease with her new surroundings. It was pretty touch and go there for awhile!

Since school let out in May, Sam and I have continued to live pretty busy lives. Sam has picked up 30-35 hours a week at Apple, and my schedule is just nuts for the summer! I nanny a 55+ hr week and then I have a week off. It sounds really nice, but by the time I catch up on "life" during my off weeks its time to go back again! Isn't that the way it always works? We did enjoy helping with VBS this year; always fun to be apart of helping precious children learn more about God!

Looking forward this month to the annual Haist Family Reunion in Indiana (this weekend!!!) and then (drum roll please...) SAN FRANSISCO!!!!!!!! If the font size doesn't say it -- we are pretty excited! For our honeymoon we dreamed of going to wine country but due to finances and trying to make wise decisions early in our marriage (wink, wink), it just wasn't feasible. Three years later, we are beyond excited to celebrate our 3rd anniversary on our dream trip! We will spend two days in Napa and then head to San Fransisco. Mom and Dad Dean will be watching E for us :) 

Other then that, we are enjoying the weather in St. Louis this summer! Did you ever think I would say that? The hottest its gotten is 105 with the heat index. The rest of the days have been 80's, and this week .... 70's! Unbelievable! We have been living it up with lots of walking, biking, grilling, and other fun outdoor activities. 

We would love to hear from you! If you didn't receive the email with our new address and would like it, send me an email!

Love, 
Sam & Katelyn 

Living Room - we love stained glass windows!

Guest Bedroom 

 

Dining Room / Sam's office

Kitchen - equipped with a dishwasher!!!!! 

One of the days we spent relaxing in Tower Grove Park.