For real...

It's true. As I was nearing graduation, each time people would ask where I wanted to work when all was said and done, I would pause and sincerely answer, "Anywhere but the Midwest." The rest is history... It is also true that to this day, I do not recall applying for the job I now have...

After seven months as an Oklahoma resident, reality has finally sunk in. No more two week vacations for Christmas break. Loans must be repayed. I'm in the working world with no end in site. And I live in a state with only two large cities highlighted on the map. But I'm happy. Yes, that happiness is maintained in part by frequent road trips to visit friends, family, and just get a change of surroundings, but I also enjoy my job and the people I work with, my roommates, and my kitchen.

Here's some highlights from my most recent trips:

Conquering Mr. Freeze at Six Flags over St. Louis...

Hangin' with the St. Louis Crew (two youngest not pictured)

And chillin' on Catalina Island with the LA gang (no implications intended).

Yes, I am aware there are no pictures of us actually on the island, but Brad was such a superior photographer, I decided to retire my camera and just mooch pictures from him. We really did make it there...