change.

Change is a funny thing.

It's one of those things that starts as a nagging idea. A thought that has value, leverage, and possibility. So you follow it. It leads to one thing, that leads to the next. Down a few rabbit holes and through a few open doors. 'Till BAM - it might work! Then your stuck with the final hurdle. You ask yourself, honestly - Do I really want change?

Then you deal with your head. Yes. No. Yes. No. Why I am thinking of such crazy things? Yet, why can't I stop?

For me, the answer was an undeniable yes. In my heart it was always yes, yet battling through emotions and frustration was exhausting. But worth it. Although, had I continued on without change, the end would have been inevitable regardless. Either I change now, get financially reimbursed, and switch seamlessly to a new institution, or I switch next semester but find myself forced to work until next fall to payback unused student loads and then accumulate a deposit for residence. Regardless, my journey doesn't remain here for much longer. This is not bad thing! I totally take what my dad says to heart : life is colorful mosaic - intricate fabrics that make a beautiful picture. Life changes, and life moves. It's all part of the adventure.

With any decision comes the + and - of both ends. The friendships I was beginning with a few girls were becoming valuable, which made leaving hard to break. The faith-based learning, which I have come to appreciate so much, will be deeply missed as well. Not to mention the community-atmosphere that keeps you distracted, and the beautiful weather to always boost your spirits.

TUW has a great environment - it's small, safe, and close-knit. But it just wasn't clicking. When I went home at Thanksgiving, I found out where my priorities lie. And what I've missed about myself since being out here. I haven't picked up a book in days, my running has been ignored, and I have found myself wondering who I am here - and where the 'me' I was back home went. I realized I was fine here, surviving, but not happy and thriving as I should be.

When change is right, it works. I don't believe that you get an idea in your head for nothing. The way things have fallen in place is a sign for me that I have made the right choice. The dates, the deadlines, finding boxes, and finding seat sales - everything fits. Another chapter of my life has ended, yet another one has begun. I sincerely believe this!

I am excited to get back to where I need to be. My adventure here has moved on, back home, to where I need to be. The nursing classes I've taken so far have been wonderful - I know for sure I will enjoy nursing, so I'm confident that will continue back in Edmonton.

God has a way of working things out. Despite how much I wish for a massive sign, a radical dream, or a loud-booming voice to direct my steps, he works in his own way. So, with this in mind, I'm fully ready for this change and can't wait to see where I will end up next!

Peace and love,

D.