Sunny Side Up: August 2011

Life can be tough, be it emotionally draining, physically painful, or simply overwhelming. Fortunately, the transition between graduating college and beginning my graduate program has been smooth sailing. I could have cried a lot or been stricken with tons of anxiety, and the focus of my post today is on those who made those possibilities impossible. I could not be filled with more gratitude for the people and places in my life that have helped many people be optimistic and confident in the journeys they are on the brink of embarking on.

First, my professors and mentors in SLO: Thank you! These people offered so much endearing support and courage from the moment I starting applying to programs. Their ability to strengthen those they mentor is beautiful-both as I was mentored and while I watched them do the same with others. I am so fortunate to have such intelligent, caring, and wonderful cheerleaders.

*****

Second, California: This gorgeous state I've called home my whole life has taught me to open my eyes to surroundings, care about the food I put into my body, and to appreciate the calm weather. The Pacific Ocean has been my therapist, calming my soul as the crash of the waves inspired me to keep life in perspective. The agriculture, the suburbs, the small college towns, PCH in the summer time, the traffic in the cities, San Francisco's hills, LA's eclectic aura...thank you, California, for always being well rounded.

*****

Third, my incredible friends: Whether sitting with me while packing numerous times over the past few months, reading over my personal statements...a lot, or just sharing their excitement for how much fun we'll have these next few years visiting each other, I've been blessed with the most spectacular friendships. THANK YOU for helping me find my housing, making sure my belongings were packaged and shipped, sharing your lives with me and allowing me to do the same. I'm a lucky girl with friends who are a lot more like siblings, especially since we've been there for one another for most of our lives. I could never hope for better friends who have kept me sane and excited for this new adventure.

*****

Lastly, my family: My parents, brother, grandparents, aunts, uncles, cousins, and dog all deserve an award. I could never express my gratitude for the unconditional love and support offered by these people (and pup). Their honesty keeps me grounded, they challenge me to make the best possible decisions, and help me feel undoubtably safe with their comfort. I'm moving to the exact opposite side of the country from all of them, which is pretty scary. Luckily, their excitement, pride, and belief that this is the right thing has rubbed off on me. That, or we've all influenced each other. Either way, to my family-thank you, from the bottom of my heart, for being who you are and shaping me into who I am today.

And the next blog post will be coming from one of two places...the airport, or NEW YORK CITY!

After a three month and six day hiatus, I have now finally been able to regain my place in the blogosphere. I apologize. Between May and June, I graduated from college, and immediately shipped off to a remote area to work at a summer camp. The experience was incredible, particularly because I spent two solid months advising 48 high school seniors. They, along with the other people I was surrounded by, all helped me grow as a person as I, hopefully, did the same for them. While at camp, though, the internet connection was so splotchy that many websites, including Youtube, Pandora, and Blogger, were all banned due to lack of bandwidth. Fret no more! I'm back.

And as I return to my blog, I pack up my bags to leave on a jet plane. It's time for the big move, ladies and gents! Frank Sinatra said it best, "Start spreading the news. I'm leaving [on Tuesday]. I want to be a part of it! New York, New York! If I can make it there, I can make it anywhere."

I've missed being able to chat. Now I'm free, especially since I shipped all my belongings today. I'm hoping my belongings make it to my apartment safely, and that the Big Apple isn't harmed by Hurricane Irene. Actually, I hope the entire East Coast makes it out okay.

Starting next week, I'll be back on the normal schedule. Until then, here are some photos that have documented the past few months: