Didn't Think I Would Ever Say this But...

                I think I'm actually starting to like living in a big city. I wasn't too sure that I would like Philadelphia at first but, honestly, it's not so bad. I have at least met all of my basic needs here within the last 10 months. I found a place, though not my perfectly ideal place, I can afford the rent, utilities are free, I have a place to eat/sleep/shower, and I have more privacy. And by God's grace, nothing traumatic has happened in contrary to what people see on the news everyday in a city that has long held the title as one of the most dangerous places in the country. Furthermore, I just recently secured a permanent job at a biologics company in which, by the way, I was a temp for nearly 9 months (health insurace, 401K, sick time, vacation, yay!). I'm also starting to make the effort to get out more and meet new people around the city. Yesterday I met up with a few women that's part of a group I became affiliated with online. We talked, laughed, ate good food, had a few drinks (well, I had water) and I went back home with a hopeful spirit. Not too bad so far.

            Things have been challenging when I first decided to make the bold move toward Philly but as of right now, things are slowly starting to come together. I still have a long journey ahead of me, but one thing is for sure...I did a little bit of growing up in the process thus far. Past challenges and learning from past bad decisions is not easy, but I don't cry as easily as I used to, nor do I give up when a door closes in my face. Life can sting and it has stung at times! But being in a big city, supporting myself, and trying to frame my future is, in a weird way, an exciting adventure (and super scary). 

I gave myself permission to be scared though...

Of course, that doesn't mean that I refuse to be brave. One day, I'll be more settled, be a little more debt free, make more money, buy that beautiful home (preferably in the suburbs), and maybe be someone's wife and mother. But so far, I'm learning that in order to get to the next big thing in life, you have to pass the next big test. So, bring it on! Anything that's going to make me a better woman and a more happy and fulfilling life, I'm willing to pay my dues (*gulps*). It's been almost a year and I've made it this far, let's see how far I get in another year's time. Hopefully, I wont go backwards.

From an up and coming "Philadelphian" :)

Jacqueline