In your own house, you get used to the conveniences we have purchased and accumulated over time. We know how to connect to the internet, run the microwave, the TV remote, thermostat, and even our Google or Alexa personal assistant if we have one.

Let’s just say our new place here in Chicago offers some challenges to the comforts of home. Besides the fact that our new place is about the size of our living room at home, the floors here are all tile, the walls are white and there is limited lighting.

The microwave here was designed with only ‘quick cook’ buttons like ‘reheat’, ‘defrost’, and popcorn. When you choose one of those buttons, you then have to enter the code or size or something to get it to start. I’m still trying to find the directions online; All I want to do is reheat my burrito for 30 seconds on power 8!

Because we are on the campus of the University of Illinois, Chicago, the internet is locked down tight. We are assigned a new password every 2 weeks and that’s not a problem. The issue we are experiencing is every time a device like my laptop goes to sleep it logs me out of the internet. Then I have to re-enter the unmemorizable series of numbers, letters, and special characters. I’m finding myself reaching over and pressing the mouse button every few minutes just to keep the computer awake.

Additionally, with the internet we are provided, we are unable to use our Roku device on the TV. Suzanne loves her Ride Pass Rodeo network and I was hoping to have it for her, but no luck. We also brought our google hub to use in the bedroom as an alarm clock, no go there as well.

Then there are groceries & restaurants. Needing some groceries, when ventured off to the local Jewel / Osco to pick up a few things. When we arrived, we weren’t sure if it was open as plywood covered every window & door. Also, Restaurants and eating establishments are mostly takeouts, not that we are planning on venturing out too often. GrubHub is the restaurant of choice, just haven’t figured that one out yet.

In rural Iroquois County, we all complain about our internet service, cell phone service, and other utilities. Many complain about road conditions, neighbors, schools, and lack of eating opportunities. Next time you hear me complain, kick me in the shins to remind me it’s not as bad as it could be.

An intelligent heart acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge.
Proverbs 18:15