and so it goes.

Here I am! An official university student.

Wow, I have waited so long to get here. I remember looking forward to this part of my life even as a young kid. It is a little surreal.

So this morning. After hauling my suitcases into the car, and realizing a second trip to the hotel was definitely in order, Mom and I took off to TWU for my first experience as a freshman. As we pulled into the main driveway, we were a tad startled as we were greeted by several leadership students sporting Hawaiian shirts. The startling part was that their level of energy and enthusiasm was absolutely unreal. Really, it was quick shocking. They quickly surrounded our vehicle, leaping and bounding every which way, eager to point us to the right building and parking lot. After surviving that mild mob, the mom unit and I began the first of many, MANY trips up to my room.

My roommate, Aly, is fantastic. She's really chill, easy going, and quite hilarious. And very simple, when it comes to packing. A few bags here and there, a backpack of books, and single jump bag of clothes. I sure felt the heat rise to my cheeks when I realized that my clothes alone accounted for more space than her entire collection of personal items. This is a serious note folks - I didn't realize how much poop I had brought with me, and how I still have this feeling to shop more. It is sick. I hope to seriously downsize by the end of this year. Bah.

I now reside in NW 333B - third level, room thirty three. I now possess a room key, building key, & mail key. I feel very distinguished. Sort of. The best part of this entire transition is that although I am in a strange place with stranger people, there bits and pieces around me that are solid reminders of home. For example, in my suitcase I found a box of chocolates for my 'tea time' from my dad, and a humorous card with Golden Oreos from my sister. Also, having my dear mom right by my side all day helping me unpack and prepare added a touch of home to my new life.

Now it's just me and Al, occupying this once-drab-now-comfy room of ours. Parents have left and freshman remain. There are cardboard boxes all over the bathroom, and my suitcases are stacking at the end of my bed with random odds and ends rattling around inside. I still have drapes to hang up, decals to paste, and knitted flowers to stitch. (yes, I bought crochet flowers to sew onto something. please, don't ask. ) Despite my mild chaos, I know I will love it here. This week, known as Orientation Week/O-Week, will test my social skills, set up the foundation for great new friends, and help me adjust my head properly as I look to be independent in the academic world.

A few times over the course of my time in BC, I've been hit with the sudden realization that I will be completely on my own, and independent from my home. It is quite the startling epiphany. But I am doing well, I do believe. No tears yet, no sudden panic attacks, no bed wetting. But there are many nights ahead of me still, so time will tell. Focusing on my desire to be a nurse, and to be the best I can is my driving force right now - I know without a doubt this is the place for me to be at. So with that in mind, I'm off to bed. Goodnight, folks.

Love, D.