wow.

So. The last post doesn't even begin to touch what my life has been like in the past few weeks. I had said no to Columbia, because I was freaking out about housing and living costs, you know, the day-to-day. And they came back today with an offer I just cannot refuse. In fact, when I read the email, I was getting a PO Box for the summer and nearly had a heart attack in the post office. I kept rereading it to make sure I wasn't reading it wrong. It's that great. So for sure, definitely, absolutely, positively, I will be going to Columbia in the fall for my nonfiction MFA. I am excited, and more calm than I have been in a while about it. When I said no last Friday, I spent the weekend crying and thinking about what I'd done. I realized I made the decision out of fear and lack of self-confidence. And I didn't want to keep making decisions based on fear. I've done that for so long now, always taken the safe route, kept expectations low so I don't get disappointed......but this time, I'm going balls-to-the-wall, all out, giving it 150% and allowing myself to bask in the fact that they've pursued me and have given me this great opportunity. I've worked too hard for this not to slow down and really appreciate it.

I still have the summer in Chapel Hill, to work and save money (hopefully) and enjoy North Carolina for a few months. :)

There's a reason why Columbia kept coming back, after I kept saying no. I can't help but think I am supposed to be there, and whatever Higher Power there is made sure it would happen - they could have gone to their wait list, but they didn't. I am so grateful for this opportunity. So grateful.