Stories from the 'hood

I thought it would be cool to show off the house God has provided for us here in Highland Park. Besides a few inconvenices (having to take baths, wash hair in sinks etc), it's really been a great place to live! We haven't started programs yet, so things haven't been to exciting in that area. I've just been doing a few things at the office and then working part time at GFS. However I am learning a lot as I am now living in the 'hood and getting adjusted. So I thought I would share some experiences:
1- My first full day of living in Highland Park, I decided to go grocery shopping at the local Save-a-Lot...seeing how saving a lot is exactly what I need to be doing! It was an interesting experience. I had a man offer to help me when going into the store, and a young boy while coming out. I almost took the boy up on the offer, but I only had 3 bags. Plus, I wouldn't even know what to pay him! I am getting use to being one of the few white people around. But sometimes, I notice it more than others. That same day, I went to another grocery store and saw another young white lady. We both walked in that the same time and I'm sure were wondering the same thing "What's she doing here?"
2- Yesterday as I was driving home from work I experienced first hand the affects of bad roads and lots of rain. It was pouring outside and I chose to drive side roads home, thinking it would be quicker. However, John R (a road that runs through the city and into the suburbs) was flooded out in multiple areas. I honestly didn't think my little Corsica would make it a few times. But it pushed through and now I even have a remnant of trash hanging from under my hood. Needless to say, a normally 15 minute drive took over 45
3- The one thing that is really hard to get use to is that I can't just step out the door and go for a walk, or ride my bike. Well, I guess I could...but probably not the safest thing to do.
4- Melissa and I know the family who lives 3 houses down. The kids all came to camp and youth club. It's so fun having them right there. One day, one of the boys William rang our doorbell. When I came down, he said "Ajaia wanted to see you. She didn't believe me that you lived here" So his sister Ajaia came running up and gave me a hug and we sat on the porch and talked for awhile. It's just so cool to be able to live here in the neighborhood with our kids. I know it speaks volumes to them that we are here. At the same time, I know their wondering why we are chosing to live in an area that everybody else is wanting to get out of!
5- As far as what I am learning...I can just sum it up in TRUST TRUST TRUST. There are so many unknowns and scary things about moving here and pretty much starting a new life. But at the same time, I know this is where God has me. He provides daily. He certainly is Jehovah Jirah, my Provider. My best friend really encouraged me last week when we were on the phone. She reminded me of how God PROMISES to provide for His children. He will give us all our needs, it's not an option. Just this week, I have seen God provide in little things. Little reminders that He has not left me alone. Financially, I was able to find car insurance cheaper than what I thought I could (let me tell you, moving to D-town does not normally bring down insurance rates!), and some more financial support has come in. Knowing that He has brought me this far and provided, why do I doubt that He will contine? Yeah, I'm a slow learner... I also am trying to find a home church and small group to get connected in. It's a process for sure. Yet, God keeps bringing little encouragements as needed. I am so thankful for the friendships and relationships He has blessed me with!
All that being said, please pray as we start up programing the first week of October. I am really excited and pumped about being with the kids again. HPCO is really focused on discipleship and small groups. Pray that God will use this year in the lives of all our youth to grow them closer to Himself.