Clicking my ruby slippers

I'm quitting my job.

That's no typo. The job I was so excited to have 10 months ago is the same job I'm officially leaving on the 14th. (Enter WTF?!?! moment here)

Last year, I arrived with the intention of figuring it out. I wanted to work at Disney. That didn't work. I worked at a bar and did some writing. Then JA offered me a great position to work hard to help kids. The writing has continued through all of my ventures. I've contributed to fashion and women's health publications and have loved every minute of it. But the thought of having to put it on the back-burner when my schedule is hectic during the school year wasn't sitting well with me. My work load lessened a bit this summer, allowing me to really take time to reflect on my life here. In the spring, I was getting the feeling that Florida wasn't the place for me and that I wanted to get out, but at the time I was prepared to just wait it out. Then this summer, I had an AHA! moment.

I want to work in the fashion industry. I want to write about it. It fascinates me on a daily basis. I love talking to designers. I love watching trends. I love sharing my observations with the masses. My favorite part of the past two years has been my writing. So, after some soul-searching, I've come to a conclusion. I'm not happy here, so I need to make a change. I'm also broke, and will be broke for quite some time if I stay here. So what's my next move?

I'm moving home. Yeah, I never thought I'd say that, either. I'll be working for an Aveda salon utilizing my customer service skills, marketing creativity, and genuine interest in health and beauty. I'll be continuing my web column, which will concentrate on trends in Indianapolis. I'll be pursuing other writing endeavors in Indianapolis and Chicago. And most importantly, I'll be closer to the friends and family I've missed during my time being over 1,000 miles away.

As my grandmother said, I gave it the old college-try. I came down here to figure things out, and I have. This will be a big change, but a needed change. And while I know I'm leaving behind a wonderful community of people, I know that my path is headed in the best direction for me.

I'm nervous. I'm a little sad. And I can't wait to go home.