By the end of this week, we will have been in California for three months.
Crazy.
You regulars know that this move was major for our family. When I first blogged about it, I was still somewhat in shock….California?? Wha…?? But as we began packing and saying painful goodbyes, the shock turned to sadness, tinged with confusion. Why, God? Why move us all the way across the country, where we know NO ONE?
La Jolla Beach
But we kept packing, we said those painful goodbyes, we loaded up the Penske truck and our old van, and we started driving — away from the familiar into – as the old Steven Curtis Chapman song goes – the Great Unknown.
The first month was a little rough – though we were warmly and graciously received by our new administrators, we struggled to get settled in: everything is different in CA!!
Calvary Christian Academy Varsity Volleyball team
School started July 21. As all beginnings are, it was awkward. The kids weren’t sure they’d fit in; Dave and I weren’t sure we’d fit in. So. Much. New.
Let me fast forward through those first awkward weeks, though…we are at the end of the first quarter, and we’re thriving. God has given each of my kids great friends. And, to the delight of this mother’s heart – my girls have many of the same friends. Most are fellow volleyball players (CCA Lady Knights are 4-0, thank you very much!). They are a fun group and, to be around them, you’d think they’d known each other for years.
Earthquake Drills — something we never had in Florida!
Thomas is enjoying school, as well – when he’s not getting Demerits for talking (those of you who know him are not at all surprised at that!), he’s playing his ukulele and singing in the middle school worship team, and playing flag football with his new buddies.
God has given Dave and me amazing coworkers who have treated us like family. We are so blessed. I feel like we see confirmation, weekly, that this is exactly where God wants us.
Of course, we still miss “home”, we miss our friends, we miss rain! But we are adjusting well, and we are experiencing the blessings of obedience. We still sometimes wonder “why”? But we trust in a God who is far wiser than we could ever be. He knows what is best for us – even when it seems crazy, scary, and confusing.
God is good. ALL the time.
For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. ~Jer. 29:11
It’s so good to hear and see what God is doing in you and your family’s life. Even though we didn’t know each other for very long you are still missed here back home. This will always be your home and you are welcomed back anytime.
Love,
Shelli
Thanks, Shelli! We miss it there, but we are thankful for God’s faithfulness.
I remember earthquake drills. I grew up in CA in the 50’s! We moved north in the 60’s and the first time there was a drill in that school, I got under my desk. But I was the only one. The teacher came back for me. Turns out it wasn’t an earthquake drill but a Civil Air Patrol (bomb) drill and everyone but me headed for the bomb shelter. I don’t think they do that anymore. I think you will be happy in CA. It’s different from FL, but I’ve moved cross country twice and both times ended up blessed beyond my expectations.
That’s awesome!! Thanks for the encouragement!
We are thankful to have both of you and your children (although, I was a little disappointed that none of them joined Yearbook 🙂 ) at our school. You’re not going to find a more loving, accepting and caring group, anywhere other then here at CCA. I look forward to getting to know you and your family more in the years to come and I hope we can be a blessing to you, by filling the void that comes from leaving behind a wonderful group of friends and family.
Thanks, Judy!! We feel so blessed to be here. Sorry about yearbook, though 😉