A Month in Alabama

Today marks one full month that Justin has been in Alabama - wow. I could post about how this month has been for me, but I thought it would be more interesting - and better fitting - if I had Justin write out what it's been like to live in Alabama for a month. After all, he's gone from a California city where he could walk almost everywhere to my small Alabama town where you could walk to the post office but it would take you like an hour - you have to drive everywhere. He's gone from city lights to fireflies and constant sirens to neighbor kids laughing in the quiet neighborhood. I'm sure it's been a big adjustment, but he seems to be handling it well and I can't wait to read what he writes.

So, let's see...

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Today marks my first month in Alabama and what a month it has been. New people, new places, and so many stores I've never heard of. But best of all, I'm with my wonderful girlfriend. It's surreal, in a way, finally being together. I still find myself thinking it's a dream or forgetting I'm not getting back on a plane and going back to California. I'm here for good. We're together at last and I love it! She's been so supportive and helpful with me adjusting. She even cleared out a drawer for me in the bathroom! Things haven't been going 100% how I would have liked them, though. I hoped to have a job by now and be able to support us, but that's proven to be far more difficult than I thought. It's my biggest stressor. I think about it constantly and it makes me feel like a failure. But then there she is, hugging me and telling me it'll be OK. If it wasn't for her, I'd be going insane. I've had a few interviews, including one tomorrow. I just hope it works out. But I know that no matter what, she has my back. I'm excited for the future. I'm excited for OUR future. I'm so happy to feel like part of a family again. And her family is amazing. Her parents are awesome and supportive and helpful. I'm endlessly grateful for them letting me stay with them while I get everything situated. I'm also glad that they like me. That's a very good thing. It's such a great feeling, being able to hold Brittany and be there for her when she's anxious or sad. I love being together. Little things like grocery shopping and cleaning mean so much more because we're together. I love being able to surprise her with flowers in person, rather than having them delivered. I can go on forever about this stuff, but it would never convey how much I love being with her. This move has been long overdue and even though some things aren't going as planned, I will never regret it. I'm with the woman I love and so happy. I can't wait to see what the future holds.