To Columbia We Go!

Hello dear family and friends!

Well, it's official - I have moved to Columbia, SC!  After four pretty relaxing days with the 'rents in Hilton Head, we made the trip to Cola. and had one big "move-in" day.  I won't lie, it was no simple task to say goodbye to the two people who have sacrificed so much for me and this move to Cola., but they left me in a great place with incredible people and a loving God watching over me - so it's time to let the rest unfold!

I must say that one of my favorite parts of this cozy little apartment is looking around at all the pictures hung and "trinkets" given to me by some very special people.  While you are all not with me physically, you adorn my walls, desk, refrigerator and more!  As I unpacked a few stray boxes this afternoon (and feeling a little lost in this new place!) I found myself thinking that had I never taken chances or gone out of my "comfort" zone, I never would have met many of YOU.  So thank you...thank you to all my loved ones who have and will continue to touch my life in ways one can't even articulate!

As I face all of the new, exciting and challenging "things" that these next few weeks bring (And as I start my Graduate Assistantship tomorrow!), I will be sure to post updates.  But first, a few things that I'm thankful for in this new home:

1. Southern hospitality - everyone is so kind, and SO willing to help!  The check-out clerk at Publix last night offered to help me load my groceries into the car (after he bagged them so nicely!) I know, it's something little, but it's those little things that make adjusting to a new life 700 miles from home a little easier :)

2. New Friends - already today I was able to connect with a lovely HESA (Higher Education & Student Affairs) friend that I met during interviews in the spring - I'm so looking forward to our friendship!

3. A safe, comfortable place to live - I could not be more thankful for the ways in which God has provided for my family, and in turn provided this opportunity for me to go to school at USC and live in Columbia.

That being said, here is a verse I came across a few weeks ago...it's one I will live by today, tomorrow, and throughout this new journey!

"I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you." - Psalm 32:8

Love you all, miss you always, and I promise to "post" again soon!

SCD