“We’re moving to Kansas.”

My jaw dropped, I was only 17 it’s not as if I had a choice. This meant I had to leave my home, Houston and that I’d leave my friends. Senior year of high school was already rough, and now I’d move my second semester of senior year to a whole new state; I was not happy.

The interesting thing about new beginnings is that they almost always look like good things coming to an end. I never thought that I’d be happy where I am, especially outside of Texas. I’m fortunate enough to say I’m happy where I am.

Wichita was definitely hard to get used to, and when people said there was traffic I’d laugh and roll my eyes. Clearly, no one here has ever sat an hour parked in traffic. The beautiful thing about Kansas is the people who live here. I’ve met so many great friends and people who’ve added so much to my life.

They’ve helped me understand that I’m here fulfilling a purpose and that I’m blessed enough to have them. They made Wichita a home away from home and even though people have walked in and out of my life. I have come to understand that it’s the lessons each person helps us learn.

To my friends who’ve helped me love Wichita (even though I’m still moving back home, someday) thank you! Although, I’ll never find cinnamon rolls and chilly appetizing I promise to always respect that you do.