Where's My Ruby Slippers?

It's been a while since I've been here. Well okay, 1 month and 14 days. 

Three days ago, I turned 24. What? Yes, 24. Next year, I will be a quarter of a century. And yet, I still get asked when I'm graduating high school. Those are always great moments. 

My mom flew down to surprise me for my birthday. And it was wonderful. Of course, it was bittersweet not having more of my family here, but one is always better than none. While we didn't have as much time as either of us would have desired, I think it's safe to say we made the most of every moment. From late night Cary Grant movies, to IHOP for dinner and a shopping extravaganza (don't worry, dad, we didn't break your wallet), it felt just like home. 

Home. There's no place like home. The home you grew up in. The home where you made memories with your family. The home where you laughed, cried, ate, slept. Home. I miss my home. I miss the home I grew up in. I miss the home where I've made memories with my family. I miss the home where I've laughed, cried, ate and slept. Home. 

These were the thoughts racing through my mind as I drove my mom, my best friend, to the airport. When am I going to see her again? When am I going to see my daddy - the man who has never left my side? When am I going to see my brother and sister, grandparents and cousins, aunts and uncles? When am I going to see my childhood friends again? 

Don't worry - I didn't have a nervous or emotional breakdown. I am stable. All is well. 

Moving away from home was good for me. I popped the bubble of my comfort zone, spread my wings and flew (well, actually drove) to Nashville, TN. And I have loved it. I've made friends who I know will be a part of my life for the rest of forever. And for them, I am incredibly thankful. I wouldn't trade those people and the memories made along the way for anything. 

I don't know what the next few chapters look like. Heck, I don't even know what I'm eating for dinner. But what I do know, is that I shouldn't be worrying about it. My best friend has always reminded me of Matthew 6:34. And now I'm clinging to that more than ever. I'm also clinging to the assurance that I'll get back home. I'll see my family, my friends. I'll make new memories, and reminisce of the old ones we've made along the way. 

So for now, I'm going to look forward to eating my chocolate covered strawberries when I get home and enjoy each day as it comes. To everyone back home, I love and miss you all so much. Enjoy the snow, because I don't have any. Love on your loved ones a little extra. Drink in the sunshine and breathe in the fresh air. No matter what chapter you're in right now, don't worry about skipping to the end. You can't. And that's okay. Stay in the present chapter. And enjoy the journey along the way. 


Toodles, 
Ellie