Well Hello There, Life!

It's happening. In a few short weeks I will be moving out of my parents' home. It's been my childhood home. The place I became an adult in. Felt loved in. Felt lonely in. Had fun in. Grew in. Found myself in. Disobeyed God in. Obey God in. Felt God's presence in. Experienced heartbreak. And yet realized just how blessed I am. 

Most kids scurry off to college the minute the clocks strikes year eighteen. And they experience the ups and downs of solo living much quicker in life. I never followed that norm. I did however decide to spend three weeks of my life in Bulgaria with one of my best friends there. I lived the local life and experienced so many interesting memories! But boy...I never knew how hard homesickness could hit a person until I was sitting in a Sofia hotel room balling my eyes out over a hamburger and fries I struggled to order from room service completely realizing I was stuck in Europe for the foreseeable future.

So as the clock has started beating faster towards mine and Caleb's wedding date, I've slowly begun to emerge from the oblivion into the reality that's about to strike. Now don't get me wrong. Ya girl has been so happy and eager and looking forward to having her own home! That in and of itself is a miracle straight from God. It's something I've desired for so long. And now it's an answered prayer! But as I've begun the process of making this foreign structure my home, it's begun to feel way harder than I ever thought it was. 

I remember back in the beginning of this year when I lost one of the precious things in my entire life. After we buried my sweet furry baby sister forever, I made a determination to turn her little bathroom into my own little haven to help us all move forward after she passed. It was so difficult for me. It felt odd and wrong even after we spruced it up with a new coat of paint. But I told myself to press on. Don't be tempted to go back to the other bathroom. Keep using it. Over. And over. And over again. One month to a habit. It'll get better. Just keeping using it. And now I couldn't imagine anything different. In fact, I don't want to leave it behind! 

After that experience, I know now I'm going through the exact same thing on a way bigger scale. Hey, God, thanks for prepping me for my future. I see what you did there.

Recently, I went to social media to ask my circle's advice to one making the difficult transition to fly the nest and start a new life. And I thought I would share just a few of my favorites with you guys if you are going through the same thing. Granted, every bit of advice was perfect and just what I needed! This is just a small sample.

"One day at a time..."

"Give yourself the joy of figuring things out. And, call when you can't."

"Enjoy it! Keep close watch on your budget and keep your kitchen clean."

 "Don't overthink it! It is a natural step into adulthood."

"The 'big' steps feel much larger than they are. You've got everything you need to fly."

"Fill it with love, joy, peace, understanding, and keep strife out at all cost!"

"Don't be afraid to spread your wings....It doesn't come without its challenges. But it's definitely worth it."