So — it has been two weeks since I’ve moved back to Georgia. The first week was filled with lots of eating outs and much needed family time. The second week was a continuation of adjusting to Atlanta culture and my place in the world as an adult in Atlanta. There are so many differences in lifestyle from college in Virginia to at home in Georgia.

 Week one I went to Savannah, Georgia and spent lots of time with my family. I missed them so much. It had been six months since I physically saw my mother and grandparents. During the first week my family dynamic change. My mother is now a newlywed and the entire first week was me realizing my place in the family as a young adult. I was no longer a child being sent to the room or told to filter who I was to fit in the family mold. I was participating in the big family moments at the family cookout with my older cousins. Everyone was now accepting who I am and the image of the little chunky girl with pigtails was finally erased from their heads. It felt so good sitting at the table holding my grounds on different policies and being able to finally articulate myself freely.

Week two was filled with me adjusting to THE Atlanta culture. Atlanta is a city more than a black entertainment hub. Atlanta is a southern melting pot. Plus, this suburban life has been treating me well. Y’all saw the smile on my face and auntie vibes I was giving at food truck Tuesday – but any who there is a greater amount diversity here in the city. I missed the authentic food because that Cuban restaurant I went to the other day was the bomb.com – Like walking through Target or down the street you can here 2- 4 languages and in Virginia there are just people who all are magically tied to the military. Somehow the southern feel is different there. Good news is I finally started my first day working during week 2 at the new Cracker Barrel and that experience was just wow. From the employees to the tourist interactions. I felt so wrong for leaving my city. I questioned why I left this amazing place – but then I was reminded. As an intelligent minority woman there are so many risks.

Many things were in jeopardy when I was graduating high school and leaving the nest definitely shaped who I am today. I could never regret going out of state for college. I love my friends dearly. They are my second family and are the most beautiful souls I’ve ever met.