New Chapters, New Beginnings

 Hi y'all! I'm back! It's been a busy few months, so I thought I'd take a moment to update you and share some lessons I have learned in the process.

First, I have completed my CDA, which is essentially a teaching certification. It was stressful and felt like a waste of time while I was working on my associate's degree, but it was satisfying when I finally completed it. I didn't learn too many lessons through this, except that sometimes even things we see as silly or unnecessary can help us accomplish our goals for the future. 

Two, I moved out on my own... well, kinda. I moved in with a wonderful young lady from my church in what could best be described as an old-fashioned, countryside cottage. I rent a room from her and enjoy the beauty of a big yard, front patio, and gorgeous scenery. It's been an adjustment, but I'm doing really well and focusing on growing into myself. 

Three, I embarked on my first long car trip of 6 hours when I went on my first independent vacation, which was an incredible experience in and of itself. 

With all that being said, I've had a lot of chances to think and learn. I feel like I am relearning who I am and discovering just who I am once I step outside of my quite large family circle. I get to discover how to solve house problems like poison ivy in my garden and flies in the house due to our friendly neighborhood cows. I feel like I've finally started to think of myself as an adult instead of simply a legal adult child. 

 People always say it is hard to finally move out on your own, but so far, I haven't found that to be the case. Sure, there are everyday challenges as there always are, but when it really comes down to it, the challenges aren't harder than previous ones; they are simply different. I went from never having a moment's peace to having too much peace and quiet sometimes. I went from having too much to do a lot of days to not being sure what to do with the excess time available. I went from never being alone to sometimes being a bit lonely. All in all, things are just... well, different. 

Every time you take a step in a new direction, new challenges will arise. Sometimes they can feel like more than you can take, but one thing I have discovered in my time of freedom is how powerful it feels to push through and figure it out on your own. From building pieces of furniture for my room, battling flies, and navigating the world of finances as an independent adult, I have been more stressed than ever before, but also more empowered. I have had moments where, at the end of the day, I can look in the mirror and say, "I did that." Nobody can claim ownership of your accomplishments, and you are 100% capable. 

So many times, as women, we are mocked in our efforts for independence. We are told we aren't strong enough, smart enough, or driven enough to accomplish the things we have set out to do. At times, these things could be true. I definitely needed to call my dad to move in a washer and dryer. I definitely needed my brother to come install my swing. But most of the time, with the right amount of stubbornness, we can do just fine. You can Google the problem and experiment till you find the solution. You can use your own intelligence to work your way through difficulty. You can do it 100% on your own. 

Well, there's your update. Hopefully, something I said is helpful or resonates with you. You are more than capable of accomplishing everything you set out to do. As always, thanks for reading, and feel free to leave a comment!