SoCal transplant in Indy

Part 1 November 5, 2014

Hello, my name is Ryan, I am originally from Southern California and recently moved to the Indianapolis Metropolitan area. This is where I will document my experiences and updates of my endeavours.

Already at the eve of being here for 3 weeks, couple days short of 3 weeks at the new job, time has gone by quite fast. Having landed here on 10/16 with relatively little delay with Southwest, I was dealing with a head cold or some kind of sinus issue. Be warned, if at all costs never fly while having pre-existing sinus pressure. My ears did not fully unplug for about one and a half weeks later. First day of work was 10/20.

The new job is your typical training arrangement. Tons of information crammed down your throat with it not making complete sense with the hopes that once out of training it all falls into place like a beautiful puzzle. It is mentally exhausting to process all that information on top of the format being lecture/classroom style, sitting there listening to someone talk for 8 hours. (By the way the job I am training for it is customer service specialist for a company that services Department of Education loans). It might not be a huge surprise to many but I am pegged as the class clown/trouble maker. It’s mostly because of my debonair charm and irresistible personality; in short the trainer loves me along with the rest of the class.

So far what have I learned here? Well the general public does not know the deliciousness of what is In ‘n Out. I have an accent to some, no word on if it is an annoying one or not. They have highways and interstates here while back in SoCal we make it simple and call everything freeways (on top of that they do not put the word “the” before the interstate/highway number). They do not have soda out here (particularly Cactus Cooler) due to the fact they call it pop. I have also discovered, to my surprise, that Hoosiers (Indiana residents) do not like cold weather/temperatures (this opinion mostly derives from individuals in my training class at work. Blankets, heating pads, and jackets/coats are all used INSIDE). Granted I have not been here long nor have I experienced a true winter here yet, although I have experienced reading outside in the 40-degree weather. I do expect to fall on my bum multiple times during the winter with ice and/or snow on the ground walking into work.

The biggest adjustment I have had to make is going from knowing so many people locally to being able to count the people I know out here on one hand. Thankfully modern technology and communication avenues has made that sting less but it is still evident. The flip side of being overly blessed [understatement] with so many people that I love and love me in turn is leaving them. I miss my friends and family back in SoCal very deeply. That being said, I am doing well and working on establishing relationships. Whether they are professional or personal, they will come in time. I have gone to a start up church called Generation Church (www.facebook.com/GenerationChurchNoblesville).

Definitely do pray for me. For wisdom, guidance, discernment, and comfort. I know I am blessed beyond my own understanding and belief. “We also pray that you will be strengthened with all his glorious power so you will have all the endurance and patience you need. May you be filled with joy,” (Colossians 1:11 NLT)

Thank you all for reading, praying, the support, and love.

“For wisdom is far more valuable than rubies. Nothing you desire can compare with it.” — Proverbs 8:11 (NLT)