And the winner is....

UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER

After doing a lot of research and prayer, Heath and I are moving to Denver, CO. The decision was a very difficult one. While Portland is the mecca of the planning world, and am sure would still be a great experience, we were pulled toward Denver after learning more about its program.

PORTLAND

Heath was very impressed with the faculty and administration and Portland. He loved the city-- especially loved the transit system. He rode the light rail and the street car mostly the whole time. He loved the environment with the picturesque mountains and the green. But when it came down to it, the PROGRAM wasn't exactly what he is passionate about. While at orientation, one of the alumni said to him straight out--"if you are interested in design, this is not the school for you." Portland is very much centered around policy, which is important, but not the emphasis he is looking for. While we are sure this is a decision between good and good, we both feel Denver will offer Heath want he needs to go forward in his career.

DENVER

In making this decision, Heath spoke to planning professionals, past professors and city leaders in what they would look for in a planner--which school you attended or what skills you had, knowledge of either school. One comment hit both of us hard: "Policy planners are a dime a dozen, but planners with a design background are the wave of the future." It's funny, as I'm writing this, I am having another confirmation that we made the right decision. :) We've been to Denver and love the city and the surrounding area, but never have been to the campus. Heath is trying to arrange a meeting up there. In researching the program, it was like...a no brainer! As we read through it, it was describing every interest and passion Heath has in planning... creative design, new urbanism, sustainable living, environment and health...etc.

We are excited for the change and of course a little nervous. I try not to think about moving because it just makes me sad. But I know from many past experiences that change can be good. School starts for Heath on August 11. We're looking at living at this development called Stapleton (which of course is a new urbanism development) You can check out the site @ http://www.stapletondenver.com/

We love you and thank you for your prayers and support.

P.S. Thank you for all your votes!!!! We loved that!