Sorry!

I am terribly sorry that it has been so long since I have posted! I keep reminding myself that I need to write in here to update everyone on what is going on but I always forget and put it off thinking that I have not uploaded my photos yet so what use is an update? Well I finally went looking for the cord to attach my phone to my laptop and realized that I did not have said cord so it was going to be a while before I could upload my photos, then I decided it was time for me to update.

I can't believe that it's already February 22nd and that I have been at my work for almost 3 weeks now. Work has been great. There are frustrating times of course having to do with what I do at my job, but my co-workers especially the 3 others with the same job I have are really helpful in making it easier and helping me out with any questions. Most of us are not locals so that makes it easier as well. They all remember what it's like to be new to the area, and there are a lot of us around the same age that started at this company within the past I'd say 5 months so it's great to be able tog et their advice about stuff.

I really am adjusting to life in the south. It's not as hard as I thought it was going to be. I was told that the cost of living down here is less, but I've started to really notice it in my wallet even only after the 3 weeks. I've been able to save a lot more down here than I was up north. Also helps that in Tennessee we don't have income tax taken out of our paychecks, but we do have a 9.25% sales tax which does hurt a lot especially when doing something like grocery shopping.

Two weekends ago I went to Nashville and had a great time there! It's a very pretty city, and definitely more built up than Knoxville is. It is really more of what I thought Knoxville would be like, but I'm getting used to the small city feel.

Finally, I decided to start volunteering at the humane society because my weekends were feeling a bit empty and I wanted something to do with my time. I have been 3 times now and I absolutely love it. I have always loved volunteering. I do donate some of money money to 2 different organizations but not as much as I wish I could and there are so many more places I wish I could donate to, but I feel like donating my time is also of help especially to the humane society.

I must admit the biggest struggle is figuring out how to meet people my own age down here, but I'm working on it and things are very good. I'm happy with my move and my job and how life is. I really can't say that I have any complaints for which I am very happy.

-Me

Lots to get used to!

Even though it's the same country, there's still a lot to get used to down here in Tennessee. The first thing that really struck my mother and I was the driving. Everyone drives within 3 mph of the speed limit for the most part. There's no tailgating or frustration at slow cars in front. Well there is still by me because you definitely can't get the Boston out of the girl. I was running late to work yesterday and I was stuck behind some slow cars and there was absolutely nothing I could do about it. It's just the way it is there. Makes me realize that I truly have to leave earlier than I want to just incase something like that happens again.

Also different in Tennessee is that you can smoke in locations that are 21+ such as a bar or a club. There is one bar in Amherst where they allow smoking and I am not sure how it is legal there but it was extremely smoky. It was not as bad here at the bar I was at, but it was still something to get used to unfortunately.

I have now been at my work for 2 days and both have been good so far. Tomorrow I will be spending Super Bowl Sunday at a co-workers house who invited everyone from work to come over. It will be good to see everyone from work in a more casual environment.

I'm waiting to post pictures of my new place until when my new couch comes in a week as that will really bring everything together. So far everything has been good though!

-me