Hugs and Tears

It's a very likely possibility that I'm crying right now as you read this. And as I wrote this.

Let me explain.

Today is the day that I'm leaving New York and heading back to Texas. I knew when I made the trip up in August that it was likely this would only be temporary, for three months to be exact. My travel nursing assignment has come and gone and now I must move on to the next one.

I'm sad for multiple reasons. I have absolutely loved living in the Northeast and experiencing so many new things. Sure, my southern roots have given me away more often then not, but I like to think I adapted pretty well to life here, and enjoyed myself in the process. (Even the snow!) I also really came to enjoy the hospital I worked at, and made some good friends in the process. Saying goodbyes are never easy, even when you've only known someone for three short months.

But the hardest part, without a doubt, is leaving Casey and Joe. I have been so fortunate to have been able to live with them during my stay here. They have both made me feel so at home from day one. We've been a little family of three and it's been wonderful! I can't thank them enough!

Joe is like the big brother I've never had! He's so thoughtful and always sure to include me; I've never felt like the third wheel with the married couple. Also, he's a great cook! Who knew?? And the chocolate pie he makes is definitely in my top 5 favorite desserts! YUM!

I don't even know where to begin when it comes to how much I'm going to miss Casey! This girl came into my life by chance almost eight years ago, and we've been nearly inseparable ever since. We've endured lots together and grown to be (in my opinion) some pretty incredible ladies. I know that I wouldn't be where I am today without Casey. I admire my best friend for her faith, her strength, her patience, her creativity, and her kind heart. She inspires me to be the best version of myself and I look up to her in so many ways.

circa 2010

We've been getting into mischief since 2007, like storage-box-lid-sledding-at-2-am. It's a real thing, I promise. The last three months may have been less mischievous (cause we're too old for that now), but definitely adventurous. I couldn't imagine exploring the northeast without Casey by my side! 

Today feels like Christmas break freshman year all over again. Neither of us wanted to leave each other for even a month. There were lots of hugs and tears, just like today. But we can be miles apart and I know that our friendship will never change. I'm so lucky to have you as my best friend and forever roommate, Casey Lynn. xoxo.