It's Official!

INCIDENT:
So the other day I finally transferred my driver's license, title and registration. After three months of living here, I finally went down the DMV and the Driver's License Office to fill out the paperwork. I was really dreading the trip because I had to go to two different offices on two different sides of the city. So I decided I would just try to tackle one job at a time.

I first went to the registration office because my California registration was already expired. Whoops. And in the end it only took about 30 minutes including waiting to transfer my title and registration. And to boot, the woman who helped me was really great. Looking down on my watch, I saw that I might be able to make it over to the driver's license place as well. So I jumped in my car and sped off. Once again a really nice person helped process the paperwork and then I had to take the written test. Boo. But wait, it's open book! Yay! I handed in my completed test and waited for the results. I still managed to get a couple wrong. What? I smell something fishy. But I passed, so I didn't inquire any further about the missed questions.

So it is official. I'm a resident of the Beehive State.

Dead Horse Point State Park, Utah; Photo credit: MRT

MORAL:
Why did it take me so long to transfer my license? I don't think I had come to terms with the idea of Utah being my home. And when I first moved to California, it also took me several months to transfer my license. I have come to realize that it's a symbol of moving on mentally. I loved California and I love the many friends that I made there. While I was there, I grew up a lot personally, intellectually, and professionally. I learned about the strength of relationships and the support of friends. I questioned my role as a teacher and as a student. I found new abilities and acknowledged weaknesses. And I definitely have a new awareness of the importance of the weather.

And while I still hold on tight to the memories, I have to accept and be open to the possibilities that this new place holds. I can't compare the two places. Each holds unique traits. And more opportunities to grow.