Change is something I’ve been kind of obsessed with lately. I mean, it’s even all I could think about in my Challenge Detroit spotlight video! Proof:

Public Service Announcement – it was super weird making a video of myself. When I went to write the script about my time as a Challenge Detroit fellow, change was literally all my mind would allow me to create material about. But I’m good with it, because it feels authentic. Like I’ve truly captured a moment in my life. That’s also what I really appreciate about these blogs. It’s a window into my psyche each month; a very public diary if you will.

Anyway, I’ve been going through a lot these past few weeks. I started a new job, but really it’s been more about all of the relationships I’ve grown this past year and how so many of those people are moving on. Maybe their careers are going to be kick-started elsewhere. Maybe they’re going back to school. Maybe their work visa was denied. (I’m still so sorry for my friend – it’s hard to imagine going through something like that).

Regardless, they’re leaving here. These people are leaving Detroit, leaving me. And I’m actually happy for each of them and the plans they’ve made for themselves. But it doesn’t hurt less when people you’ve come to really appreciate and come to care deeply for are no longer going to be in your life in the same capacity. I’ve been struggling. CASE IN POINT, I was strongly considering adopting a cat. If you knew me well, you would know that’s practically a revolutionary thought.

So the conclusion I’ve come to is to savor every moment I have left in the life I’ve created here for myself in Detroit, with these people, new and old. My Detroit life will go on of course, but it will be different. As I said to myself back in May in my spotlight script, change is inevitable.

I’m writing this in the final moments of my 24th year. It’s been stellar to say the least. Job, friends, apartment, family – all great. Turning 25 seems like the end of an era; it feels like a big deal.

However, tonight I had an amazing dinner with my parents, I was serenaded in the lobby while rocking my favorite jumpsuit, am listening to Lady Gaga and watched fireworks on the water from my apartment window. Hell, my birthday isn’t even until tomorrow. Life is good.

25 has some big shoes to fill, but I just so happen to have a thing for shoes.

Sinatra’s The Best is Yet to Come is the last song I heard tonight. It’s a good sign.