Back to the Basics

​Soft, alternative music settles in the background as voices of conversation rise above. Waiters and waitresses alike scramble to place orders, clear tables, or retrieve food and drinks for their patrons. I sigh, take a sip of one of my favorite beers, and think about the last few days - finally settling back in and taking in the atmosphere. The cheerful, exuberant atmosphere of my favorite brewery in my hometown. It feels like forever since I’ve set foot in this establishment, but nothing has changed. Same friendly service, same beer taps with a few new additions, and the same brick walls that show a tiny bit of history. The past few days have been a whirlwind of emotions and energy, so it feels nice to get back to something so familiar. So genuine. Moving has always been second nature to me, but this particular move was intense for all of the wrong reasons. I loved the people I met, the places I frequented, and constantly having something to do. South Carolina planted a seed in my heart that definitely rivals my feelings for Kansas, but as always, another contract looms in the distance beckoning me to stretch my comfort zone and reach out to it. Besides, however hard the transition will probably be, I know that saying goodbye to my friends in Greenville is only temporary. What’s that saying? It’s not goodbye, but goodbye for now? Whatever it is, that is what I’m sticking to.

​So, now the big question: What’s next? Truth is, I have no fucking idea. I’ve batted the idea of heading back to the area I just left, looking in the Nashville or Knoxville area. Unfortunately for me, many of the contracts in the Tennessee area require a CPI certification, in which I don’t have. That can be remedied, but I don’t know how quickly it will take. I’ve also tossed out the idea of Colorado. While I have successfully avoided snow for about 2 years, I’ve been aching to get my hands back in the cold, bitter, pristine cloud of beauty we call winter. Not to mention I have plenty of friends and family residing in Denver, so that would be another instant friend scenario (which means a lot less work for Hanna). Fingers crossed something crosses my radar. Until then, much to my dismay and gratitude, it’s wedding season.

​Don’t get me wrong, weddings are amazing. I both envy and appreciate the celebration of my friend’s love for their significant others. However, I’ve been moving non-stop for the past week, soon to be the next month. Packing, unpacking, and re-packing, all within a short amount of time. That sequence of events appeals to me just as much as eating pickles does… I hate pickles. BUT I will enjoy being with my friends. They deserve an enthusiastic and colorful entourage, which I am more than willing to contribute to. I think I’m just ready for a few days of rest and not being able to get that has me in a sunken mood. I’ll be sure to have an attitude adjustment prior to any wedding event, though, so don’t worry. 

​Weddings aside, holiday season is around the corner, which includes football, enormous amounts of food, and family all surrounded in one. I’m PUMPED for that time. The time to hangout with the people who care about me no matter what. The time to think of the family members that I have lost. The time to appreciate everything that has been given to me, everything that continues to come my way, and the memories that play rent free in my head. I may be exhausted more these days, but that has to mean I’m doing more with my time than I used to… right? 
Either way, keep in touch, keep in mind, and enjoy those around you!