I would never have guessed at the beginning of this year that I would take a leap of faith, leaving my friends, family and home state beyond to embark on a new adventure. But that is exactly where I've been led.
Just over two weeks ago, I packed up and moved south to Virginia, about five hours from where I grew up and where I've lived for the past 20+ years. I took a new job at a university, something I was and am very excited about. It's in a great town with a lot to do. And frankly, so far, the change hasn't been too earth-shattering. My new place is literally (and I do mean that literally) about 15 minutes from everything I need, including work. (The difference in not making a two hour commute each day is stunning. I still haven't quite grasped this concept.)
Everyone's been so nice and helpful from work, even down to one putting me in touch with the couple who ultimately became my landlords. But I'm eager to make some friends and start building myself a life here. I've had moments where I read a text or a Facebook post and think, "Oh, I want to go with you!" only to realize that I'd have to drive five hours to go to a movie with my friends or out to a fest. I had a long day of work on Friday and a few hours on Saturday; on Sunday, I declared it Fun Day and endeavored to find myself some fun. I went shopping (never fun for me) and then decided to go see Pitch Perfect. While there was a tiny bit of anxiety in going to the movies alone, once I got there and staked out a seat in the back (which, by the way, was behind another woman by herself), I decided to make it a me date and even bought myself some popcorn. In the end, I was glad I went.
And I guess that's what this adventure is all about - stepping out, trying new things, seeing what's in store. Stay tuned....
