Goodbyes (part 2)

God provides in a timely manner. I think that means that just when you need it, it is provided. That has happened a few times for me lately. Additionally, God provides generally. Which I think means that when He is behind the provision, your mind will be blown. This has also happened to me a lot recently.
For graduation, my friends John and Karen gave me a new car. They gave me the last car (blue saturn, pictured here) but were afraid it wasn't going to make it to LA, so they prayed specifically for a car in good shape with low miles (60k), and that was inexpensive (under $2,500). And the Lord provided. I am now the proud owner of a 1996 Oldsmobile Ciera, and I am really excited about it. (see picture here).
They couldn't bring it to me when they came up for their visit, because it needed to get some work done, so John and I (and Andi and Jared) met today in Austin to do a "car swap" - it was really fun to spend a bit of time with them, and get to hear the stories of this car. The Lord's generousity continues to amaze me, especially when I see it in my friends. I want to evidence that kind of giving in my life, too.
Some other friends of mine recently gave me a gift for graduation, and that gift will perfectly cover my rent for June and July (I leave in May, but still have to pay my 1/2 of the lease). I was nervous about how I was going to afford it, but it was really neat to see God's provision through their gift. Again, I want to evidence this kind of giving in my life.
So, after a marathon of updates, I am headed to bed. I need to get up in the AM and write like crazy, so I can be done with this paper! See pics and captions below of car experience!

The old car, which Sarah named "Jasper" - it had some flaws, but it was a great car for two years! And it was free, so I was doubly grateful. :)

John and Jared at the Starbucks. J just turned 6 and he's kind of a stinker whenever cameras are around. Actually... he's been that way since he was little - he loves to be funny.

Me and my peaches. I can't believe I'm going to be gone for a while and miss seeing her!

The new car! It is a little "pimpin'" but great! Its dark wine colored, with maroon interior. Its a LOT bigger than the old car, which is great as I prepare to move. :) Right now I'm calling her the "Red Raider" but I might let Sarah name her if I decide I don't like it. For now... I do. It reminds me of the Protege, which the football guys called the "Brown Bomber"

I called up some friends and said, "let me pick you up in my new wheels and we'll go have ice cream!" Here we are afterward, posing with the new auto. Hooray!