Excitement...

I am a special kind of person - and I guess that can mean various things. I, however, mean it to point out that I do not necessarily like talking about myself. There may be many people like this in this world, but I have yet to meet them! I get extremely self-conscious when talking about myself, so I don't do this (most of the time). When I do, it may come across "matter-of-factly," with little or no emotion. I do not quite know why I am like this, but I am. It may be from experiences in high school.

I am not, however, going into why it may be from those experiences as they do not exactly relate to the upcoming topic. I am using this post as a way to clarify to my readers that I am EXTREMELY excited to be moving to Memphis. I have taken care to try and respect those around me - as many of them are not exactly thrilled that I will be gone! I do not want to leave these special people in my life, but they do not live in Memphis and must be left behind (physically speaking). Everyone will always be in my thoughts and especially in my heart. I love these people and 400 miles will not change this. Nevertheless, I have chosen not to talk about Memphis because I don't want anyone to be sad on my account! I despise sadness (and have spent too much time in my life being sad). It is a worthy emotion, but this is an exciting time in my life and I hate to make people sad because of it.

I cannot wait to experience life with Dustin. After five years together, I think we are more than prepared for this step and I am conquering my fear about it each day. So many skeptics are out there placing premarital cohabitation as a reason for divorce in younger couples. I do not believe that Dustin and I will be a statistic. We are a strong couple - communicators, understanding, trustworthy, compassionate, passionate, loyal. The only thing that can break us apart is the devil. I know that we are not married and that we still have a long way to go ... but we have been through so much together already. Unfortunately, I fear that too often people may look at marriage as a necessity to save or continue a relationship (when living together). That is NOT what marriage is.

Marriage is a commitment to each other. It is not a piece of paper. It is not a contract (except one with God). It is something to work at AND TOWARDS. I feel that by living together we will finally see how great we are as a team. I know it's going to work. I know I am going to be the happiest girl in Memphis come next weekend! I have never looked so forward to something!!! We will be working TOWARDS our future together. We are not condemning our relationship by living together and I know this. I know Dustin knows this. If he didn't feel we were right for each other, he would have never asked me to come to Memphis with him. If you know him, you would know this about him. If you do not know him, you need to know he doesn't risk much! He would never risk "us!"

There will be fights. There will be disagreements. We will get bored with each other. We will love each other. We will compromise. We will find excitement. ... This is the great part. Couples go through ups and downs. If they didn't - it wouldn't be normal! But it's the working together and coming through for each other that really makes a couple special. We are special .... We will get to once again be a normal couple -not an "IM-ing" or phone couple. We will be people again - not people through electronics and technology. I have been blessed to spend so much time with Dustin over the past year, but I have been sad and depressed in those times I cannot see him (which is, obviously, more than I see him). Being with him will lighten my life, my mood, ME. I will be ME again. This part may be the best part about my move.

SO! I am excited. This is a new chapter in my life ... and I could not be any happier. It cannot come soon enough, but a week and a half will fly by (especially considering I will see Dustin this very weekend for Mardi Gras and the Superbowl!)

GO GIANTS!!!

(Back 2 Back Manning Bowls!)

My special people (Shout-outs!):

Mom: don't worry - I'm sure you'll still drive me crazy (just from miles away!) I love you. You're my best friend.

Dad: you've been pushin to get me outta here - and you are FIFTY so I understand, it's time for a new chapter in your life too (but you will miss me .. more than anyone else!)

Amber, Chris, Makenna, Amanda: Without you, our family would seem even more crazy! I love you guys ... you are the closest to me and always will be (Memphis is south, so come visit ... no beach, but lots of music!). Also without you, "amo," I would not have one of the greatest 2 year olds in my life!

Tricia, Shane R., Kaden: I have always loved having you guys in my life. Shaner - we spent much time together in your earlier years and you are a great nephew. Stay true to yourself and don't let anyone put you down for who YOU are. Kaden: You're HILARIOUS. I absolutely crack up at you everytime we are together... don't forget me buddy! Trish. .. You are a great sister. I am sorry I haven't been a great sister. I love you so much and I will miss you dearly. I do, however, know that I will visit often and expect a visit occasionall from you too!!! CALL, EMAIL .... LOVE YOU!! Keep stayin' strong - and if you need anything, please just ask!

Cheri, Paige, Libby: Three/Four years? It feels like a lifetime already. I'm glad. I've always wanted that with you three... and now I have it. Unfortunately I have to move away now. But! That's why I do have EMAIL and phones (I'll be a better answer-er, SWEAR!). I love you girls - you girls rock ... There is a HUGE mall where I am moving (and we all love to shop!). Please come see me and talk to me often. I LOVE YOU!!!

Lori: continue being strong -but don't forget that it's okay to be tired, weak, and exhausted. You're the mother of a 2 year old! You will overcome because you have faith (and nothing can break that faith). You are a strong lady and you can overcome anything...

AVA: You are too young to read this, but you my little one, have made my last three months in Illinois the best so far. I love you! You are family - who needs to share blood? You rock. Your smile and personality are one-of-a-kind. There is no way we will ever not know each other. Email, letters, pictures, and travel will keep us together forever! I will always be your "Peppy."