Hello from D.C.

I have finally made it to my new home for the next year. It is such a relief to finally be here and be moved in. Today the final member of our unit (Alisha) arrived and is in the process of getting settled. I myself got to the house around 1am on Saturday morning after traveling for the previous 12 hours. I found some sheets, made my bed, unpacked enough to find my pjs and went to bed. Yesterday was spent unpacking my belonging which I had mailed here (yes everything arrived and nothing was damaged) and dusting and sweeping my new room. Ann and I also made a grocery run in the afternoon. Things are more expensive in the city so we made sure to check for sales. We ended up getting more than we planned (big surprise) and then had to carry it all the two blocks back to our house. Next time we will make sure to take the little cart. Our local contact person took Ann and me on a short walk around the neighborhood later on. It was nice to see the area and we found a park a few blocks away which I am sure we will use frequently. Two members of our unit arrived Saturday afternoon and evening (Keith and Cara).

Today the four of us who were here went to Hyettsville Mennonite Church. When we got there we saw that the church was under construction and there was a sign that they were meeting at a different church for the time being. There was an address but since none of us have a smart phone or know the area that didn't help us. Keith was able to call someone who was able to find directions online so we made it in time for the service. There were a lot of friendly people there and we all felt very welcomed. We were even invited to one member's house for ice cream following the service which was very tasty and greatly appreciated. It gave us the opportunity to get to know a few members a little better. We were also given a ride back to our house! I don't think we could have asked for a nicer treat. Most of us spent the rest of the day cleaning/scrubbing (not sure if the group before us cleaned or dusted anything before leaving) or unpacking. It is great to have such a big house with lots of space until you realize it is up to us to now clean all of this. I am happy to say that the third floor (where I live) has been completely scrubbed top to bottom and there is no longer a ring around the bathtub or tufts of dust in the corners.

There is still more to say, but I am starting at Kid Power tomorrow and I am afraid that I should be getting to bed. I will also try and post some photos of my new place when I get the chance.