Since moving to Le Mars almost four months ago, I have been embarrassed, lost, confused, challenged, tested and lonesome.

It's been both exciting and nerve-wracking because of all the variables.

I have a new job, new boss that I want to impress with my skills (I hope I'm doing that) and new colleagues. I'm in a new city small enough where it seems everyone knows everyone, and I know no one.

So to fit in I'm trying to get involved. I'm getting ready to to do volunteer work with a very good cause, something I've wanted to do since discovering it here. I attended a Little League game where I didn't know anyone but the coach, and finally Sunday I went to church here.

I generally go home to SD on the weekends because I have my church and friends there.

I have to admit I was a little nervous to attend church here in Le Mars because of the everyone knows everyone except me concept.

But I needn't have worried because kindness like that I, for the most part, have encountered since moving here poured out from Rejoice Community Church. I haven't felt as comfortable anywhere here in Le Mars as I did Sunday morning. Maybe it was God's message, but I think it was the welcome.

Now don't get me wrong, I have met some very nice people who I have gone to lunch with, prayed with, played with, worked with and talked with.

But for some reason, this morning as I worshiped with other Christians I felt like I was beginning to belong to this community.

So for all of you who have made me welcome, thanks.

It makes the weekends a little less long when I'm home in Le Mars because now when I go someplace I might see a face I know.