You guys, I can finally see the light at the end of the intern year tunnel! I can’t believe it’s been 11 months since we moved to St. Petersburg, and that in six short weeks we’ll be on our way to Chicago.
My last post about intern year was brutally honest. This year has been both lots of fun and very challenging. Like every season of life, it came with its ups and downs. That particular post was mostly about the downs.
I laughed a little when I reread my thoughts because not much has changed between now and then. Vishnu’s schedule has been just as crazy and unpredictable, I still don’t have many friends here, we didn’t go on a real vacation this year, etc.
With all of that being said, I can see how much I’ve grown since September. While our situation hasn’t changed much, my mindset is different than it was then. For one, our time in St. Pete is coming to an end, so that helps a little. But more than that, I put effort into making this town my own and tried to enjoy it as much as possible. I also put more effort into getting to know Vishnu’s co-interns. I was on a Thursday night trivia roll for a while!
I guess you could say I learned a huge lesson. And it’s about more than just positivity and looking on the bright side. It’s about taking the lead role in shaping your situation into what you want it to be. For me personally, it’s about first changing how I think about things and then actually taking steps/actions to get me closer to my desired outcome. It’s so easy to sit on the sidelines and wish things were different. But we all know that life doesn’t work that way!
On a slightly different note, it’s also funny how bittersweet this move feels now that it’s almost time to pack up and leave. Don’t get me wrong, I’m so excited to move to Chicago and start the next chapter in our lives. However, I find myself getting emotional over the silliest things. For example, we put our dining table up for sale on Craigslist, and earlier this week a woman came and looked at it. Well, not only does she want to buy our table, but she also wants to buy the couch, the chair, the bed, the nightstands, and the bookshelves. Great news, I know! But every time I think about the furniture Vishnu and I bought together being in someone else’s house, I feel sad. Hot mess express over here!
I also get emotional when I think about not living in Florida anymore. When we first got married, all I wanted was to move somewhere else. And now that it’s time to do just that, I can’t help but think about the amazing weather, the beaches, etc. and how we won’t have all of that in Chicago. AND Florida is near and dear to my heart because it’s where Vishnu and I started our life together. We’ve lived in three different cities in just under four years.
With all of the above being said, I do feel lucky and blessed. Medical school and intern year really tested our marriage in some ways, but ultimately, the often crazy and chaotic experiences brought us closer together. We’re much more of a unit now than we used to be! And from a Parita perspective, I can truly say that our journey so far has shaped me into a stronger and much more independent and confident person.
With that, let the countdown to Chicago begin!
No question today. Just a big thanks for reading my rambles. 🙂 Have a wonderful weekend!
Chicago kinda has a beach 🙂
And get excited for Runs along the lakefront path and through Lincoln park (with a walk break thru the free zoo!)
diana @ veggienextdoor recently posted…Travel: Tokyo (part 1)
More than anything, I’m excited about Chicago summers! Best city in the world for 3 months out of the year 🙂
Love this post: first thing first I am so proud that you’ve become very strong person, something I’ve seen more in past year or so. Will miss Florida (fun visits) too but now we get to see more of Chicago and with one visit will get to see all four of my favorite lovely children 🙂
Thanks, momma! So excited for you guys to visit and actually see/experience Chicago 🙂
When I left Florid and moved to Seattle for four years, I thought I’d miss it but I didn’t know how much. This state does kind of lure you in with it’s weather and beaches 🙂 BUT the food in Chicago is enough reason for me to move 😛 I wish you the very best in your new chapter. I am sure that you’ll fall in love with Chicago, too.
(your moms comment is so sweet <3)
Pragati // Simple Medicine recently posted…No Bake Peanut Butter Chocolate Bars
Thanks, P! I love Chicago already…in the summer! I’m a little nervous about the winters, but I’m sure it’ll be fine! I don’t have a choice 🙂
This was a nice post Parita. I can’t imagine moving so many times, but undoubtedly that would make one a strong person. Between St. Pete and Chicago, I think Chitown is gonna be a LOT of fun! Definitely no beaches, but overall has a great food scene and all. On a new adventure. 🙂
Honey, What’s Cooking recently posted…Talde | Jersey City
I think so too! Let me know if you ever visit!!
im so excited for you two to start on new journey again…while Florida has beaches, Chicago has awesome food, your sister, and so much more. And maybe you can take a real vacation and visit Florida to remember all the good times 🙂
ps. im definitely visiting you in Chicago (at some point).
dixya @food, pleasure, and health recently posted…Stop the Gluten-Free Trend!
You’re so right, D. We always have the option to visit Florida when we want, especially when it’s winter in Chicago and Miami is 80 degrees!
And you definitely have to visit. I demand it!
It made me so happy to read this, Parita! I’m glad you were able to find peace and happiness during a less than enjoyable time. 🙂
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Thank you, Kacy! If nothing else, I’ve learned that most everything is temporary, so might as well enjoy while you can!