And time keeps flying!!

Its been a little while since I posted and I have a few things to share.

First, I just have to say how excited I am to finally get to see this city that I've been dreaming about and making commitments to for months now. I leave in 6 days!!! OMG. I think I must be dreaming. It seems like just yesterday I made this crazy decision and started this insane adventure.

Secondly, this past weekend I continued my quest to experience all that this region has to offer in my short time I have left by attending the Utah Pride Fest for the first time. It was an amazing experience, and while I didn't do all the things I had planned, I will never forget it. The feeling of community and friendship that filled the entire grounds was something I've never encountered. Its hard to describe, honestly, and my limited abilities give me pause to even attempt it. Even as I spent some time alone wandering the booths and watching all the people, I never felt alone or judged or as if I wasn't important even in such a large crowd. I met some very nice people and their openness and kindness impressed me more than I can convey. All I can say is that I will never forget it and spending the time there was more rewarding than I ever could have imagined.

Another notable happening has been moving out of my rented house. I'm lucky enough to have two great friends that are letting me stay with them for free to help me afford this endeavor. As I've been living with them with my very few things that I allowed myself to keep, I've realized just how wasteful and shallow I've been for so long. Here I sit in a chair next to my mattress, typing on my laptop. These three things have been all I've needed the week I've been here. I don't need the TV or the movies sitting in boxes or the surround sound system sitting ready to be set up. I don't need all the things I have yet to box up and send to the trash or donate that are sitting at the old house. No, I really don't need any of the things I've become so attached to. I've been so caught up with things that I've failed to notice the people in my life and their amazing qualities.

Just in the last few weeks as I've significantly downsized my load of belongings, I've realized that even though I thought I understood how much more valuable people are than belongings, I was still placing a higher value and giving more of myself to the things in my life than to the people. The realization shocked me to be honest, but its made me much more appreciative of the absolutely beautiful and amazing people in my life. I don't think I could ask for better friends and family members, and I know that without them I could never make this move a success. So, thank you and I love you all!!

On a super side note, I've always dreamed of writing a novel, and I think I may have just had a breakthrough in the inspiration department. We'll have to wait and see... ;)