Moving forward and not looking back

My new home.

In September 2013 I made what will likely be one of the most important, life altering, significant decisions of my life. After weighing all my options I decided to pack up what could fit in my Toyota Corolla and relocate to Seattle, Washington from Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.

At the time I was in a precarious situation. My three year contract at the television station I worked for was up on August 25 and it was time to move on. The lease to my apartment was ending six days later. I was essentially going to be unemployed and homeless. Yes that’s a bit dramatic but that’s the reality of the situation. Plus, I’m attracted to extremes which is likely one of the reasons I love news (hahaha).

Applying for broadcast jobs had not quite panned out despite my best efforts (of course I did get a call from a news director while traveling through Montana). Then there was also the question of if I even wanted to stay in the field. On top of that I had to figure out where I was going to live. Moving back in with my parents was an option but not one I wanted to take advantage of.

Mulling over these decisions one day, and by mulling I mean freaking out (there were probably a few tears as well), I ended up talking to my best friend Amber on the phone. She graciously offered up the spare bedroom in her townhouse. This wasn’t the first time Amber made the offer. In fact, she’s been trying to get me to the Pacific Northwest since she moved there six years ago. I told her I would think it over. Soon after that I decided to pull the trigger. Carpe diem! YOLO! Nothing ventured, nothing gained! All that jazz.

Admittedly, I’m an impulsive person but I really did think about this decision. Starting anew wasn’t going to be an easy endeavor. From my perspective I had nothing to lose and everything to gain. I wanted a life. Specifically a life in a major city; you know the kind that makes most/best/less - insert adjective here - lists. I wanted to live in a city with a lot to offer. I wanted to live in a place where I hardly knew anyone and was COMPLETELY different from other cities that I’ve called home.

And most importantly this was a decision made independent of consideration for my career. This was my opportunity. This was the window opening after a door had closed. You only get so many opportunities in life to turn your world upside down.

With a place to stay, a plan, and high hopes I began a new chapter. 

Fast forward to January 1, 2014 and I know I made the right decision (there never was any doubt). No matter what happens this is the path I was intended to take. Here we go!

Mom and I at the Wyoming border. One of my favorite pictures from the trip.