Fun in the Sun

I guess this is when the real preparation begins! I'm home in Scottsdale now after having a fabulous time during graduation weekend with my good friends and family. Everything went even better than I imagined it could! Laurie's visit from St. Louis made the weekend extra special and the party that Lauren and I threw to celebrate with our families was spectacular. The only part I didn't enjoy was leaving my best friend. We both cried a lot, but deep down I know that we will always be close. It's just hard to say goodbye when you don't know when you're going to see someone again. I love you Lauren!
Now I'm spending some quality time with my family in AZ and soaking up the hot desert sun. My grandma and I are hiking Camelback almost every day already. I have a lot of things to take care of before I leave for New York next month. I must study for my certification exams and pack all the stuff I want my family to send when I actually have an apartment. Everyone here is very helpful and encouraging! I'm hoping to visit with some of my old friends while I'm here and, of course, rest a bit before I take on this great challenge. So, for a little less than a month, I'll try to have as much fun in the hot, hot sun as possible!