It's been awhile since I've moved to a new city.
I remember, many years ago, when our family moved to Elkhart, IN, a woman came to our house with a basket of goodies and info about our new town. She was part of a group helping to assimilate people into their new surroundings as quickly and smoothly as possible. I'm not sure how she found out we were there. I think, nowadays, that would be sort of creepy and disconcerting.
Being new to Denver, I haven't had a specific or official 'welcome wagon' lady come to my door (thankfully) but I have had trusted and good friends, as well as new ones, help make my transition as smooth as possible. I've been here over a month now, and am continuing to settle in. I'm thankful for a new beginning, and many prayerful and caring supporters to walk with me through the new-ness.
I've made some cool discoveries (and had needed reminders) in my time here... some that may be applicable or usable for others, some that may be appreciated only by me. But, for the sake of 'paying forward' the blessings I've received, I share them with you, in no particular order.
1. Prescription sunglasses- I've learned that the sunlight of high-elevation cities is intense and blinding. I recently purchased a pair of prescription eye protection and have loved having them, especially when I don't have to wear contacts all-day, every day.
2. Endomondo - I'm not even sure where I found this application, but it's revolutionizing my exercise/running routine (And causing hyperbolic praise to issue from my fingertips). Endomondo is one of several exercise tracking software programs that allow you to track your exercise route and monitor your speed-distance-calorie burn. It's fairly easy to use, and a free app on most smart phones.
Another feature that I like is that it tracks what music you are listening to on each point of your exercise route. That's not a necessary feature, obviously, but it's intriguing to me.
3.
Biking/running/hiking trails - I am a few hundred yards from arteries of trails, both paved and natural, that wind their way all over this area, and even into the foothills. I have run more, and more regularly, than I have in several years. Thanks to said trails, and the encouragement of Endomondo, drinking more water (less pop), volleyball, eating out less, and the stress and uncertainty of a new place, I have lost almost 15 lbs.
4.
Larkburger - Seared Ahi Tuna burger... I need say no more.
5.
Blind Pilot - I was able to attend the recent Solshine Music Festival in Winter Park and was introduced to a band that I really like the sound of. They have a great mix of instrumentation, great harmonies, and a laid-back and easy sound to enjoy as you are lounging in the mountains.
6.
Redrocks Church - I'm sure you've had this experience- you sit down in a church service and you hear a song and/or sermon that communicate 1) that you need to be there, and 2) God knows where you're at and what you need to hear/internalize/apply. The "
I am Second" series has been exactly that for me. I've been able to attend 3 out of 4 weeks of this series, and made a point to listen to the fourth week online.
7.
Volleyball in Wash Park - I'm learning that Denver is an 'outdoor activity' town. Granted, Denverites don't deal with 110* temps like Wichita, but everyone is outside running, biking, frisbee-ing, or just sitting and reading. I've been graciously included in a group that play volleyball outside every Sunday afternoon. It's even how I spent my 4th of July. I love it. Great fellowship-great exercise-great fun.
8.
D'Deli (Golden, CO)- Recommended by friends, and finally enjoyed with some different friends, this little deli offers a wide spectrum of sandwich combinations and flavors. My friend Randy and I split halves on these two sandwiches, pictured below:
- Maui Waui: Ham, Bacon, Cream Cheese, Pineapple, Lettuce, Tomato, Jalapeno, Teriyaki Glaze.
- Jackwaggon:Peanut Butter, Jelly, Honey, Sriracha Hot Sauce, Bacon, Fried Onions, Sun Flower Seeds, Pineapple, Jalapenos, Banana Peppers.
9.
Trendy Glasses - There's a new advertising campaign (for Eyeglass World, or something) that I saw earlier this summer on t.v. in the Wichita area. A girl is talking about how she has her work glasses, and then her glasses that make people notice her. I got my eyes checked before my big move, and thankfully discovered that my prescription had not changed. However, after two years of outdoor work, I needed some new and 'less grungy' glasses.
Here's my new 'look at me' specs: (and a close up of my facial pores and bloodshot eyes)
10.
Jehovah Jireh - This whole transition thing is a huge leap of faith for me. I realize, even when others have graciously held back from saying it, that it's not very wise (from a human perspective) to move to a new place without a job nailed down, or a place to live, or... other 'necessary' things. But, I am living proof that God has and is providing. That said, I have my moments and days of anxiety and questions and impatience. But I can't get away from the fact that at strategic times, in clear ways, God has provided people, housing, finances, food, and even a timely song or sermon or reminder from Scripture... 'Do not worry... your Heavenly Father knows that you need them... But seek first His kingdom, and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.' (Matt 6)
