Living Arrangements: I've now been in Idaho for 2 years. Isn't that crazy? And I've moved around several times since I've been here. I've lived in Caldwell, Meridian, North Boise, Nampa, and then back to Caldwell and Meridian. Yes, all of that in 2 short years. I've become an expert packer and minimalist- so that's something! In fact for the last month all of my stuff has been in a storage unit, and I've been living out of 2 suitcases.
Career: I LOVE my occupation and to be perfectly honest, I'm quite fantastic at it. I pour my heart and soul into my clients and MOST days it is very rewarding. Working for a counseling agency and my placement at Gateways Elementary has been a perfect fit. One of my main purposes in life is to be an advocate for children. "People would do better if they knew better," and that's where I come in. I'm assisting children who haven't been taught better or at times have been cast aside and given up on. I thrive at my job (probably because I'm good at telling others how to live their lives). Haha!
Church Callings: The entire time I've been here I've held some sort of calling in Relief Society. I am currently the Relief Society President in my YSA ward. I. love. it. It has been such a joy getting to know the sisters and hearing their stories. The cheesy cliché we hear repeatedly, "I love all of you even if I don't know you very well," is in fact true. It comes with the calling. Heavenly Father allows us to feel a glimpse of what He feels for them. It's actually quite remarkable.
Social/Dating: Have I dated? Yes. Have any of them worked out? Yes, exactly how they needed to... which is why I'm still single :) I am a firm believer that you learn something invaluable from every relationship, and I can honestly say that has happened. Friendships have been a bit of an emotional rollercoaster. I've made several dear friends that I know I will always keep in touch with. We've laughed uncontrollably and have had many adventures. On the flip side I've struggled with friendships in the last 2 years more than I ever have before. Part of this is because BSU doesn't mix well with my beloved Utah State Aggies :)
Family: Growing up in Southern Utah I maybe saw the extended family a few times a year. Most family vacations consisted of visiting Idaho and seeing the cousins, but I didn't have the frequent contact that I currently have. It has been great spending a lot of time with my aunt, uncles, and cousins. However, my immediate family is a long, dull 600 miles away.
Reoccurring Thoughts: Am I progressing? Am I too comfortable with my life? If I don't leave now will I ever? Is it time for me to move on? Do I see myself in Idaho for the rest of my life? Though, I may be confused on a lot of other things; the answer to the last question is a resounding NO! I've always known that I will eventually be back in Utah. Not because I can't live far from home nor do I hate my life in Idaho; but because Utah (Cache Valley more specifically) is where I belong. They are my people and I am myself there. So, I've made the decision to turn home. Frankly, I'm freaking out that I'm quitting my job (that I LOVE) and leaving without one. But, I know it's what needs to happen...So, ready or not, here I go!
