When you take your first job in the news industry, you know you’re accepting the fact you’ll likely live far away from friends, your significant other, and family.

I FOR SURE knew what I was getting myself into. I knew (and still know) that in the end, it’d be worth picking up and moving away to chase “the dream.”

As expected, there are good and not-so-good days. I often miss friends, family, my boyfriend, being close to the city, the shore, all of it! So when a best friend visits you, it feels like a little piece of home is with you.

Livi planned the trip from Connecticut to Huntsville just two weeks before coming. The spontaneity of it made it that much more exciting. The anticipation didn’t drag on for weeks. I knew her visit was right around the corner when she booked her flight.

When you’re away from someone for so long it kind of becomes a norm. I couldn’t even imagine Livi coming until I actually saw her at the airport. Reality hit and tears just filled my eyes.

When you live away from home it feels like you’re living in your own bubble. New friends, new job, new environment, new life. Then when you go home or see someone from home, reality comes rushing in and suddenly you feel at home again. Does that make sense?

It was so nice to have Livi back in Huntsville. She was able to see what I’m up to, connect with all my friends, and spend time together catching up. We took endless pictures, laughed a ton, and picked up on all our shenanigans.

I always try to remind myself now, that there’s life outside of work…