Like a busted thumb...

So it may be a strange metaphor, but stick with me. If you've ever busted your thumb or any other seemingly minor appendage, only then do you truly realize how much you actually use it. Basically, when the big machine we call our lives is running smoothly and efficiently, so many things happen on a recurring basis, and we take them for granted.

With slightly more than a month left before things start to get exciting, I'm starting to feel like I've busted my thumb. Trying to track down all those things that happen in life that I'm not fully aware of is quite difficult, but at this point in time is required. All those things that would magically happen over the next year now requires planning and preparation.

My vehicle registration expires, my insurance needs to be changed, my job has to put me in a leave without pay status but I still have vacation time I want to burn before then so I have to figure that out, credit cards expire, bank accounts need to be put on hold, gas/electric/water needs to be moved to my roommate, health care, taxes, IRA contributions, 401K contributions... I've got to put together all the passwords and log-ins and account information for everything I do to give to my mother, give a spare key to my house to someone around here, entrust someone with the combination to my safe in case there's a need to access something I've locked inside... The list goes on and on, and I know I won't get it all.

It's tough - and eye opening - to try and figure out all those things you do that someone else might have to do in your absence. I'm learning more and more every day about the sacrifices that service members are asked (and willing) to make on a regular basis, and I'm single - I couldn't imagine the extra complications that would come with spouses and children.

On the up side - all this prep work should make it easier for those I'm leaving behind to look after my affairs, and should make my return smoother than if I hadn't done this.

As always, thank you all for your kind words and support!