seasons of change. a new beginning.

It's hard to believe it's been over a month since we waved goodbye to Juneau. The beautiful city that has defined our summer, our jobs, our relationships, our dreams, our lives. As we stood on the ferry watching our home drift farther away, out of reach, out of sight, we caught one last glimpse of Juneau. Deborah and I looked at each other not saying word. We didn't have to. We knew what we both were thinking. Feeling. It wasn't easy. It never is. It's something so rare, so special. Something to be cherished and only shared with the ones that were beside you in those seldom moments. In fear of watering-down the memories, we are cautious of who we select to share the bond that was formed there. It's not something that can be explained nor re-created. So we tried our best to make our peace with leaving, not knowing of when or if we'll be back. I closed my eyes soaking up every emotion I felt in that moment. Half of me feeling sorrowful parting ways with this place my heart is so attached to. So much of myself I have invested into that community, but even more so it had invested in me. Then, another half of me simply overwhelmed with gratitude and joy for what it has blessed me with. In the past two years, Juneau has given me more that I ever expected. All I can be now is thankful for the way it has re-shaped my life. I've taken about all I can from it, and it's time to explore and learn elsewhere. A whole new adventure awaits.

A new journey has already come and gone since Juneau. A cross-country road trip with two of the greatest people I know. A crazy experience taking us though endless mountains, interstates, cities, season changes, terrain, nature, and beauty. Also, encountered along the way were beautiful faces of people that hold a special place in my heart. We reconnected with some of the greatest friends that proves no distance can tarnish the relationships we've built. There is nothing that makes me smile more than joyful reunions with friends. It's a beautiful thing to cross paths again with ones you once shared experiences unlike any other before together. Certain memories fade, but the relationships remain consistent. You're able to pick up right where you left off. What this group of people have is uncommon and I feel so lucky to be included in it. It is no mistake we were all placed together.

Now as I'm able to reflect on everything, I find myself partly heartbroken being separated from the people and places I desire most to be surrounded by. However, I have things to look forward to. I'm trying something new. It's called a "plan." Not my style, but exciting and new nonetheless. This plan consists mostly of devoting my life to text books, professors, and studying over the next 4-5 years. A plan that involves staying in one location for more than 6 months. A week from now I will be in my new home in Bozeman, Montana. I'll be a starting school next spring at Montana State University as a film student. I will have my own apartment. I will get a new job. I will finally even adopt my own dog. It's a start. I feel anxious, overwhelmed, excited, curious, open, refreshed, unprepared, and scattered all at the same time. Everything will fall into place. It always does.

Good things....good things.

But here is one last cheers to Juneau. My sanctuary. You first captured my heart with your obvious beauty, but your infinite layers of discovery kept my soul longing for you. Your influence on all who come near you is inevitable. May you continue to challenge new minds as you did mine. You are the land of endless wonder and amazement. Thank you for everything.