Dear family and friends,
As you know, we left Illinois when Bob took a position with Buchanan Counseling in Indianapolis. This decision was made with the assurance that Indiana had "reciprocity" with Illinois in the licensing of psychologists. As it has turned out over months of dealing with the state board, Indiana's definition of the term is not quite what we'd been led to believe. Just this week, we finally got a letter stating that his application to practice psychology in Indiana was being rejected because his supervised experience 30 years ago doesn't meet Indiana's requirements. Bob's employers at Buchanan have been very supportive during this whole process, but it is clear that he can't serve here if he can't be licensed.
Meanwhile, in a call from friend and former coworker Merlin Mather a couple of weeks ago Bob learned that his old position at BroMenn was still open. Consequently, we made a trip to Normal the weekend before Thanksgiving and he interviewed with BroMenn. Last week, he was offered the position, which will have some differences from his old position but for which we are very grateful. (Also, his license is still good in Illinois!)
During this time away, our house in Normal hasn't sold (although it's all packed up) and we've been making two housing payments. We had wondered about this, but now we're also quite grateful that we have a home to go back to and don't have to try to sell one in Indiana.
While Cheri had investigated a couple of ministry opportunities in Indiana (and has been substitute teaching for salary support), no real offer had arisen for her here. It's not clear what she'll be doing back in Illinois.
The upshot of all this: We're going back to Normal! As of this date, Buchanan administrators are still working on the details of Bob's transition in employment. We plan to spend the Christmas season in Normal, where he will begin with BroMenn on January 5th. Who'da thunk it?!?
Obviously, we've got some unpacking to do (both literally and figuratively). We want to thank all of you for your thoughts and prayers during this "weird period" of our lives. We came over here with excitement and anticipation, but this became a very difficult time for us. This was a leap of faith, and we're not sorry we took it, and we've felt grace in many ways during the course of our adventure.
We've been deeply touched by the kindness of many people in Indianapolis, in the ABC family as well as neighbors and colleagues. Folks have been tremendously gracious, and we take that as a sign of God's providence and care for us.
We are, however, really looking forward to going home. We're interested in what this next phase of our lives will bring. Stay tuned for the next installment!
Grace, peace, and love-- Bob and Cheri
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