Halfway

A few weeks ago, on February 24th, NOLA and I had our six month anniversary! The past six months have seemed to fly by and stand still at the same time, if that's even possible. I feel like I've gotten so much accomplished, yet not nearly as much accomplished as I would like to. But if there is one thing that the past six months has taught me is that life is incredible. I've been through a few struggles since August, but overall, Louisiana has exceeded my expectations in so many ways.These are just some of the few things that have made New Orleans awesome:

Americorps

This is the whole reason I moved down here. Back in the beginning of August, I decided to apply to Americorps, however the job I applied for was in Nashville. Somehow, my organization in New Orleans got a hold of my information and wanted to interview me. I had never considered Louisiana, but I thought I'd give the interview a shot. A few phone interviews later, I was offered a job in New Orleans. From the time I applied, it took two weeks to get the job and make the decision to move to Cajun country. I lucked out and got placed at an agency that I love with people that are amazing and inspiring. I'm sure I would have loved Nashville, but I'm so happy that I caught UNITY's eye.

Friends

I would have been a lost soul if I didn't meet the friends that I have here. Tracy, Ben, and Caroline, you have introduced me to so many great people, shown me amazing places in the city, fed me mouthwatering meals, housed me for many nights, chauffeured me when I was stranded (often), treated my friends from home with the utmost hospitality, and most importantly, played matchmaker. It's hard to believe that I've only known you all for six months because you already feel like family. 

Boyfriend 

You are so wonderful. Even on the most stressful of days I always know I have something to look forward to on my bus ride home to you. Thank you for spoiling the hell out of me, and for putting up with me when I'm impossibly emotional and annoying. And sorry for trying to kill you with raw chicken, it wasn't intentional. I vow to become a better cook, and to try to make you as happy as you make me. Between surprising me multiple times, taking care of me when I'm injured, helping me through tough situations, and constantly making me laugh, I can't even describe how amazing these last six months were.

Zachary Mehan

Although you are thousands of miles away, you have affected my life so greatly here. I still remember the conversation I had with you when you offered me a couch to sleep on at your friend from England's place. Surprisingly enough that person became my best friend here. So indirectly (and directly in Tracy's case), you have introduced me to my closest friends and my boyfriend. I also miss you, a lot.

Friends from home

I am extremely blessed to have friends that visit me in any obscure place that I live. Caitlin, Jackie, Justin, Michelle, Marlee, and Desiree, you guys are awesome. It's so hard not being able to see you all as often as I would like to, however the lack of seeing you made it that much more special when I got to see you! I can get a bit homesick here being away from everything that is familiar to me, but your visits brought such a beautiful familiarity and sense of comfort to me. Thanks for loving me as much as I love you.

Other things that are awesome but don't require an entire paragraph

Food. Mardi Gras. Palm trees. Street cars. Beads. Warm weather. Friendly people. Drive-thru daiquiri shops.  Super Bowl. News Years. Scavenger hunts. Australians. Bourbon. Frenchman. Marine Corps Balls.

Things I don't enjoy in New Orleans

Cockroaches. The influx of termites that is about to occur. Not having a car. Stolen bikes. Injuries. Potatoes.