Settling In

Recently I realized that I have been in Colorado for three months now. My 90 day review at work is this next week, I'm getting together all my forms, etc for myself and Esme to become Colorado residents and I'm getting involved at church and in the community. I know from experience that if I don't find something profitable to do with my free time, I will spend too much time sitting around feeling sorry for myself. So, in an effort to hopefully delete that activity from my schedule I'm trying to be proactive by getting involved right away. While in DSM I joined a community choir and determined I would find something similar here -- and I have! Monday evening is the first rehearsal for Soli Deo Gloria, a local community chorus that meets weekly and gives free concerts. I'm a bit apprehensive as this is the *first* time I've done this sort of thing on my own...usually I have a buddy to drag along. However, I am being brave and stepping out of my comfort zone -- and praying that God will give me opportunities to impact people around me. Also (and I'm REALLY excited about this) I discovered a local non-profit organization that runs a crisis pregnancy center here in the springs. I have such a passion for this ministry and am praying that I will be able to get involved as soon as possible. Not only do I agree with their mission statement, but they also have evening and weekend hours, which means I will actually be available to serve as a lay counselor...which is where my heart is. What a privilege to be used as God's vessel to offer hope to those who are in seemingly hopeless situations! I've filled out the application, found people to vouch for me and now I just have to wait for the organization to contact me for an interview. I'll keep everyone posted, don't worry.


Today I did something that is *almost* unheard of -- I got up BEFORE noon on a Saturday! Not only that, but I went downtown and walked three miles to raise support/awareness for the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation. Unfortunately, I didn't make it in any of these pics (prob a good thing considering I skipped the shower this morning) but there was a great turn-out...and lots of good looking volunteers. ;)

the start/finish line 

(unlike the 5k fun run on the Office we walked a big circle instead of walking three miles away from our starting destination and then having to find a ride back)

tents for the many teams/sponsors involved

located at America the Beautiful Park in the heart of downtown Colorado Springs