The adventure has begun

Oh were do I even start? The past week has been a crazy blur of activities and of course emotions! After almost 4 full days of driving, my dad and I finally made it to Dallas. I still can't believe this is real.

My dad and I made this trip from Sacramento to Dallas into a fun  little big roadtrip, driving through Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon. The last Daddy-Inna roadtrip happened when I was 9 or 10 and it's probably one of the fondest childhood memories I have with my dad. This roadtrip is a close second. More on the roadtrip (and more photos!) in a later post. Back to my reality in Dallas.

Just a preview of the majesty of God's creation - the Grand Canyon!

Just in case you're wondering, I'm writing this from my bed in my new apartment in Washington Hall. And, it's past 3 a.m. One of the wonderful couples here at DTS, who used to live in Sacramento, invited me over for dinner at their apartment and we stayed up past midnight playing this board game called Settlers of Catan which apparently is the new rage among college students. Anyway, I had a great time at Anna and Yuriy's house just enjoying a yummy meal together, chatting, playing with their sweet little baby Gracie, and of course losing at this Settlers of Catan game. Go Anna! Did I mention I drank two large mugs of tea? THAT is why I am still up at this hour. Coffee? Nah. I can drink a whole cupful and doze off no problem. Tea? I'm wide awake, even 3 hours later. Note to self: don't drink tea. Ever. 

Other than not being able to fall asleep tonight, I've been adjusting to life here in Dallas very well. Granted, this is only Day 3. And, it's only my first day on my own. I dropped off my dad at the airport earlier today. By the way, my dad loved Dallas - all except the hot, humid weather. I'm no fan either, but you can't have it all, can you?

Dallas skyline
(from the 12th story of the Crowne Plaza Hotel)

I moved in all of my stuff and still have a bunch of cabinet space in the bathroom to spare! I guess I didn't bring that much stuff after all! My closet is a bit tight but still very comfortable and spacious. The Native American rug that I bought at a rest area in New Mexico turned out perfect for the closet! The floor of my apartment and room is buffed concrete so rugs are a must. Everything else is coming together fine too. All except for my bed, which I'm still waiting to be delivered (hopefully tomorrow!) So, right now, my bed is just a mattress on the floor. It's not ideal, but in a way, I kind of like it. It gives my room a modern edge. I'll post pictures of my space when it's finally all complete. Right now, there are still boxes in the corner and lots of blank walls and empty space. Boring, if you ask me. 

How's my roommate apartment-mate? She's awesome! Kristina has a very fun and bubbly personality, speaks with a slight Southern twang and is passionate about the Lord. She also walks dogs for a living and hates slimy food (like mushrooms). She has been nothing but welcoming, helpful, and sweet! I feel like we'll be great friends in no time!

As far as my emotions go, everything is still new, exciting, and fun. I haven't felt a bit lonely or homesick. Yet. I have a feeling it's all going to come at once in about a week or two. Pray for me! In my world, when it rains, it pours! But of course, God is with me even in the downpour, so I'll be alright. 

So, I guess this is it - as far as an update goes. More details to follow! Stay tuned.

Dallas, here's to the beginning of many adventures!