Maryland, my Maryland

That's right. You heard it here first.

Maribeth is making her triumphant return back to Maryland.

And she's completely excited and freaked out about it.

As much as I have missed my friends and partners in crime in Maryland, being close to work and family...I've begun to realize that I am going to be really sad leaving Virginia.

I've made friends here, found a neighborhood....and I grew up here. This room houses a lot of memories; a lot of great times, a lot of trying times.

I likened it today to living in the same dorm room, with the same roommates, your entire college career. Even though they piss you off, and you're ready to move on, you're completely aware of how they've affected your life.

I went through my first real job here; found a social life without the safety net of friends nearby; made my first big girl purchase here; navigated my way to a job I like; and found out what I'm really made of. That when the going gets tough, I fight back.

It took the state of Virginia and getting just far enough away to not be able to rely on anyone else but myself to see that my moral compass is pretty well tuned. I know what works for me and what I want out of life, love, friendships, roommates, and colleagues.

Three and a half years ago, I couldn't say that with any certainty.

I think you grow up more in the 4 years after college than you do during the 20 years leading up to that point. I am a prime example of that.

So while I say goodbye to the Commonwealth with a tear in my eye (hides it quickly) I am looking forward to a better quality of life, less of a commute, and more quality friend time with my Maryland people in the future.

And don't worry VA, I'll pay conjugal visits.