Relief

     This week has been so peaceful. Don't get me wrong; my month of travel was great, but I was ready to get back into my routine. I also haven't been home in an entire month, and that is like a new record for me. I feel like I am actually growing up. Who am I? Traveling on my own, staying at school for months at a time and actually having friends? It feels really good to be independent and self-sufficient.

    My trip to New York was a huge learning opportunity for me. I have some camera experience, but this took me out of my comfort zone, and I feel much more comfortable taking professional photos. MJ was an amazing teacher! She taught me how to work a camera, and I helped her go through TSA and offered traveling tips. Besides that, our food was absolutely incredible—like, I can’t believe I got to eat it. I felt so out of place. The food was plated super fancy, and half of it were things I couldn't pronounce, let alone had eaten before. It was all absolutely delicious, and the chefs were so nice. They were very inclusive of us and truly spoiled us beyond belief. They would make separate plates just for me to taste, and the head chef even got us into the Delta Sky Club on our way home. I will never forget the trip and the unique experience. I am so honored that I got to go, and I hope to go back next year!

    I missed my friends. When I got back, so many people wanted to hang out or talk to me, and I didn’t think I was missed at all. So, I’ve had a really good week connecting with friends and feel very loved for the first time in a while. I missed my weekly routine so much. Not having to pack a suitcase, actually having time to study and not having any travel anxiety has left me feeling so relieved to be back with Thanksgiving fast approaching. Nick and I are actually losing our minds that the countdown is now in the twenties and no longer is a lifetime away. 

    I have so many things coming up in November that are really fun and not as stressful as October was. For example, this weekend I get to go home and have a sleepover with Millie, my mom is speaking at PRSSA next Thursday and elections for new positions are happening in some of my organizations. I am also a huge fan of this time of year. Thanksgiving is easily my favorite holiday, and I love Christmas just as much. I am excited to spend my first holiday season feeling like a real, functioning, independent adult. If that sounds cheesy, I don't care. I just feel like I have grown so much since my first day at ONU, and it feels really good.