Howdy

Naomi has been living under the same roof her entire life. Until now. She has a new roof. And a new city. And new people all around her. Her new roof is at Underwood dorm at Texas A&M. She moved in yesterday, along with hundreds (if not thousands) of other students - the campus was packed!

We let Danielle miss a day of school as we all headed down to A&M bright and early on Friday morning to set up Naomi's new college abode. It was all business. Upon arrival, Naomi picked up her sports pass, checked in and then we took advantage of the limited "guest passes" on her dining plan to eat lunch in the Commons dining hall, which is just steps away from her dorm.

Once we were fueled up, we began unloading the car. Thankfully, the dorm had hand trucks available for checkout. This made moving items from the car in the parking garage to the dorm MUCH easier -- only 2 trips, in what felt like100+ degree heat. We were sweaty but we got the move part done quick.

Naomi's roommate and her parents had arrived about an hour earlier and gotten things started (we appreciate the help with the loft bed!) It was great to meet her family - very kind, polite people.

We all jumped into action unpacking and getting things assembled (bathroom shelf and rolling cart). Naomi was in good spirits and excited as her new room came together! Extension cords were strategically placed, clothes were put away, wifi connected, books and decorations were set aesthetically, drawers were organized and the fairy lights were hung.

We had originally planned to possibly stay through dinner, but Jeff and Naomi had talked the night before and decided that nobody wanted to linger too long and make the goodbye emotional or drawn out. So after just a few short hours, when the room was mostly complete, the signal of "it is time" came. We gave big, quick hugs, there were watery eyes and then we left. It all happened in literally about 2 minutes! It was done. The band-aid was ripped off. Naomi was staying and we were driving 3 hours away. There was mostly silence in the car and a few small tears. We felt all the feels and sadness. 

But then about halfway through the drive, we got a few texts from Naomi and a quick phone call -- she was already making plans for that evening and the next couple days of Howdy week activities! Her wings were spreading and already taking flight. Of course, trust. She's totally got this!

Yes, we are definitely sad she is not around with us as before, but we are oh so proud and excited for this adventure for her! Go be great, Naomi!! 💜