GAME CHANGER

That's right folks. It's finally happened.

I FINALLY HAVE FRIENDS!

Well, I had them before but yesterday it was made concrete you know?

I was felling bummed out as I went to my counselling class (how fitting) and of course I was the only one who didn't have a partner for the group activity (odd woman out) So the teacher was my partner (which I was fine with, she's a really nice lady) We do lots of "hands on" activities because the class is all about how to become an effective informal counselor (unlicensed). Therefore, we do a lot of role playing and practice, and I really like it! The book for the class is also really awesome because its easy to understand, has short chapters, and explains things in a way that is so easy to understand. Can you tell I like this class?

So I decided to take advantage of my teacher as a counselor (we were practicing minimal encouragers, reflecting, and using body language to let the client know you're listening) and she suggested that everyone talk about an issue that's been bothering them because the practice only works if you REALLY are seeking help and being honest about your feelings.

So I let her have it.

I told her how discouraged I was feeling about studying abroad because I didn't have any close friends yet, and that I didn't miss home but I felt that the experience that I have had so far has been disappointing/not what I was expecting. Also that I'm 23, and most of the girls that live in The Village (dorm) are 18-19 and its hard to find people with my same maturity level, making it hard to have close friends. (Like I said, I have friends but I haven't really felt close with them yet, partially due to me not 100% expressing myself) Anyway, it felt good to get all of that off my chest and tell my teacher (We all like having someone to listen to us) and I felt better after that!

After class I ran, (literally ran) home to change and get to the gym in time for a group class (I got a free pass for a group class) because I knew that some exercise would make me feel better. As I was waiting for the class to start I saw Joey (A girl I've only hung out with once before but who was very sweet) and she came up to me and we started talking and I decided to tell her flat out how I was feeling. So I said "Joey. I'm lonely. And I hate it. I am, RIGHT NOW, inviting myself over to your unit for all the times that I am not in class because I am going nuts and I need friends and I like you so IHOPETHATSOK!!!" (That last bit was rushed altogether because I started to get nervous about her reaction) She just laughed and told me I am welcome at her place ANYTIME and to just come over. I dont need an invite, JUST COME. So that made me feel better.

Then, once we got in the class Ree was there (who I love) and Zoey (an australian girl who lives with Steph and Emily but has been gone on holiday until now) and the four of us worked out and had a great time. I re-iterated to them everything I told Joey and they were like KAYLA! DON'T BE LONELY COME LIVE IN OUR FLAT!!!! ALL THE TIME! WHENEVER YOU NEED! DONT BE RIDICULOUS!

Needless to say, my worries have been eliminated. I was just being insecure and now I am back to being at ease and I don't feel bad about going over and hanging out whenever I want!

After we got our butts kicked in that class (OMG I am so sore) we went back to Joey's and Ree's flat and I hung out with them while they cooked dinner. I went home and took a shower and then came back and we tried to study for a little bit but we all just kept talking and laughing (totally worth it) Then Steph, Emily, Zoey, and Tanya also came over and we had a super spontaneous and really fun girls night. It was exactly what I needed it was so fun! It was perfect.

Also, to make the deal that much sweeter, the unit I am moving into tomorrow is the one RIGHT ACROSS from Joey and Ree. So I will literally be 4 steps away from my front door to theirs. I also met one of the girls that I am living with (forgot her name already oops!) and she seems really nice! She said she is super excited for me to move in and can't wait to hang out!

THIS is what I was waiting for. Now the real fun can begin! :)