As 2016 came to a quick close, I can’t help but come to the realization that this year I will be embarking on an amazing journey with 53 strangers (I did not include Madison– yeet). There will not be another time that I will tell people that I am leaving next September, it is now THIS September!!!
There is no doubt in my mind that 2017 will be one of the most fun and encouraging years of my life, as well as it will be challenging and heart-breaking. Wow, do I look forward to what will change as I jump into the new year.
In honor of the new year, here is a list of 17 things that I will have to leave behind as I step into a new way of life:
1. My Mom
Yes, I promise that I will miss our shopping sprees and fast-food dates, even though we immediately regret them each time.
2. My Dad
I started to cherish his humor when I realized that I will be without it for 9 months straight. Also, I will miss the Chipotle that he always buys for me.
3. My Sister
This one right here. Alysse is someone that I can truly never have enough of. She is the most loving, giving, and selfless 12 year-old girl that I have ever met.
4. My Friends
I will miss the late night conversations, the times of laughing to hard I cry, the car jams, the honesty, the sleepovers, and the pure fun.
5. The Rest of My Family (aunts, uncles, grandparents, cousins– I didn’t forget about you!!)
Please, don’t worry!! I didn’t forget that I will not be seeing you guys during the holidays and every-so-often.
6. My Pets (love you Hanz, love you weston)
“Sometimes I think I’m okay with leaving for 9 months, but then I remember that I own pets” -Me
7. My Church
Minooka Bible. Thats my place.
8. My Youth Group (360)
My Youth Pastor, My Youth Leaders, the Students I serve alongside in student leadership, and all of the students, how I will miss you.
9. High School (forever?!)
I’m not sad about this one.
10. Chipotle
White Rice, Chicken, Mild Salsa, Corn, Sour Cream, Lettuce, & Guac– forever in my heart.
11. Dairy Queen (RIP in Peace)
Love at first job!!
12. My bed (thanks mattress firm and dad)
We all know how it feels to sleep in your own bed. Now imagine it 9 months later.
13. Felix the Ford (although I really won’t miss buying gas)
My first car and my first love. I’ll start paying your car insurance when I get back, Felix. Don’t start to worry!!
14. Target (my second home!!)
Do I even need to explain this one??
15. MCHS Cafeteria Frosted Cookies
If you’ve ever attended an MCHS lunch, you will know what I am talking about.
16. Self Hygiene
I mean, come on. There is no way that I am going to be able to shower everyday!! I refuse to say if I am okay with this or not.
17. Donald J. Trump (you’re gonna do amazing, I will be watching from Asia #MakeAmericaGreatAgain)
I am sorry if this offended anyone, but how in the world could I leave this one out!! (I am only kind of kidding)
Each of these things hold a special place in my heart (especially Chipotle), and I know that while it will be hard to live without them for 9 months, I know that it will be so worth it for His names sake.
September, come quickly. I don’t think that I can wait any longer.
–Abigael
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