631:704

Long Island Girl in a Southern World

When I moved away from home, 

I hadn't expected to find much more than some

 new classes and maybe a few friends.

 I was recently asked about what it was 

like to be away from home for so long,

 and what my life has been like since I moved.

My life has changed. 

I found much more than I could have ever expected.

I found a city that I couldn't love anymore than I do now.

I found a job that put my love for fashion to work.

I found friends who turned into family and changed my whole life.

I found Jesus and a love for my God that is unmatched. 

 And I found myself. 

I found my passion and I am working my ass off to follow my dreams.

I found out that no matter how far away from your safe place you may be,

 home is just a photo away.

And sometimes it's hard.

I covered my wall next to my desk with my inspirations. 

Notes, letters, trinkets, and pictures of those who mean

 the entire world to me are just a glance away, 

and when I fall into a funk and second guess my decision to stay, 

I know I have an entire team of supporters cheering me on 

and helping me to stay on this path.

I have such a strong relationship with my family, 

and with home, that I'm not afraid to be this far away. 

I love long island, and it will forever be my home.

But I've created a life in Charlotte that is much healthier, 

and much more "me."

I love ya'll.

Goodnight.

K.