I can't believe it's been so long since I've written all of you. So much has happened since November and every time I think of writing, I only think of how much ground I need to cover. So, I am going to give you a recap of my my life in themes.
Housing and Roommates
Last December I gave my one month notice at the house in Huntington. There were many reasons why it didn't work, but the biggest was the cost of rent. The Lord was so good to me in December! I spoke with a number of girls about getting a place or moving in with them. I was content to stay in Huntington, but my heart's desire was to live in Long Beach. I contacted a friend in Long Beach named Elaine about possibly living with her, because she was alone in a two bedroom apartment. I really needed cheap rent, and I was beginning to feel desperate. On the Sunday before Christmas, the girls in Huntington were not getting back with me and I felt a go ahead from God to move to Long Beach. At church, my friend Elaine told me that our friend Erica wanted to share the bedroom with me. I was dumbfounded! I had never thought that may be what God had for me.
Erica's birthday party. My roommates are on my right and left.
Weeks later we made all the arrangements for Erica and I to share the bedroom and lease. I moved in January 1st and Erica moved in February 1st. We bought bunk beds and divided up the room like college students. It has been such a blessing to live with two godly women who desire community. We pray for one another regularly, walk to church together, and host parties at our house.
Work and Mission
I quickly settled into my new store and by January was a member of the family. I saw the Lord use me in amazing ways. The barista life allows for a lot of conversations! One of my friends Dev said to me, "Justina, you are so good. I wish I could be like you." I gave up Facebook for Lent and was able to share my decision with Dev. He hadn't been to church since Easter, so he was excited to go to church with me. Dev visited my church for a number of weeks, practiced lent, and visited Rock Harbor with a friend. It was such a blessing to share lent with him and share the gospel. I found amazing opportunities to share the Lord with him and encourage him with his new goals.
Education and Career Planning
I had a few interviews in the last few months and the recurring theme has been further training. In my desperation for a job I forgot about the further training I can get while waiting. So, I have attended three free architecture training sessions. I also looked into software training that is vital for re-entering the workforce and found a reasonable class I can take next fall. In the process of checking networking opportunities, I came across a program at Long Beach City College that is geared for the clean energy workforce. If I qualify for the program, I will attend courses in August and September. Through the program, I will prep for and take the LEED Green Associate certification exam. This is a certification used by design professionals to design and rate sustainable buildings. The test alone costs $250.
To be continued...
