One year ago I was wrapping up my senior year. Studying hard for my AP Exams and turning in all of my information to my university. One year ago I was getting my cap and gown. I was walking across stage and shaking hands with the principal who was there for my NHS induction and every time I received an academic award. I was dreading the summer. Of growing apart from the life I've always known and leaving my beautiful small corner of the world.

It's crazy to think how one year can change a life.

I never thought that I'd meet the people that I have. I've had wonderful professors, lessons, and food. I have fantastic friends and groups that I love and cherish... I've also had tears.

I learned that shutting myself off to relationships wasn't going to make me any happier. Once I opened my eyes to dating again, I got burned, quite quickly. And then I fell into a new relationship a short time after that and he's made me happier than I knew I could be.

I learned that you find your niche. I can fall on the floor of my friends' rooms and have a slight panic attack beige going on a first date and they're there to help calm me down. They push me to go out of my comfort zone and maybe be a little rebellious at times (yes, Mama, I know I won't hear the end of the nose ring).

I learned that a call to your mom or dad will do wonders for your soul. Having a small, simple conversation with them will have you laughing in no time, while making you homesick a little.

I learned who I was going to stay friends with and who I would leave in high school. It's hard saying goodbye, but sometimes you just outgrow each other. No animosity, you're just different people.

I learned that time does heal. A year ago I was still a mess after Papa's accident. I never thought I'd be to a place where I would be able to look myself in the mirror and truly smile again. I'd gotten lost, forgotten what real joy felt like.

A year ago I didn't have many expectations from moving away and starting college. Now, I see, that maybe I didn't really need any. I found great friends and learned a few lessons.

I've learned, that for once, change is a wonderful thing. So, here's to another year of unpredictability with a great friend and at a local taco place that knows your order.