Tuesday, April 9, 2013

Bittersweet happenings...

I've spent the past few days packing up all of the belongings and trinkets I have accumulated over the past few years while residing at my cozy little home, and with every box I pack, I pack memories, life lessons, and a little piece of my heart. As I close the most recent chapter in my life and prepare to start a new one, I'm finding that I am a bit more attached to good ole Cleveland, Tennessee than I ever cared to admit.

This is where I've transformed from a girl, to a woman.
This is where I've learned to balance work, school, and play.
This is where I've learned independence.
This is where I have had my heart broken.
This is where I've picked up those pieces and let God mend them back together.
This is where I've found the one whom my soul loves.
This is where I've learned to be the best woman I can be, for me.
This is where I've learned the importance of work ethic.
This is where I've learned the art of forgiveness.
This is where I've found my calling.
This is where I've laughed til I've cried.
This is where I've met some of the most extraordinary friends.
This is where they've changed my life.

Someone recently asked me, "what has life taught you?". As I pondered all of the things that life has taught me, I realized that I have learned majority of those lessons while living here in Cleveland. I've said it countless times that I am ready to close this chapter in my life, but as I sit here in my cozy living room in the presence of some of the sweetest girls I know, I realize the importance of soaking up and appreciating every last second I have in the most influential place I've ever lived. I'm so thankful for the time I've spent amidst the beautiful mountains of good ole Rocky Top, and for the woman I've become over the course of the past 5 years. I can't wait to see all that Columbia, South Carolina has in store for me.