Life, As I Know It

I've mentioned on this blog my particular attraction to autumn. I don't know exactly what it is about the season, but for some reason, my intellectual and, in particular, my creative side is hyper stimulated. Looking back, I realize that I've always been this way, so expect lots of intriguing work from me in the next little bit.

Today was the first day I felt it. That niggling feeling in the back of my mind, like something had changed. Something pulling at me to settle down outside somewhere with a steeped tea and watch the world slowly change around me and simply contemplate.

So I did.

I've been at Trent for two years now, and I've spent a good deal of time on campus. In particular, this year I've been working at the Trent Summer Sports Camp, so I literally am at Trent all the time.

I've recently come to realize that Trent has very much so become a home for me. The amount of personal growth I've experienced since coming here is staggering. I wouldn't say that I've changed. I think that I've really come into my own. I'm continually nearing the person I've always wanted to be.

My life here isn't simple, but it makes sense. I feel like I suit the world around me, finally. I can't say that Peterborough is the place that I will belong in forever, but I feel like right now, at this very moment in time, being here is right for me.

I've been successful in my program at Trent thus far, and I enjoy my classes. I take school seriously, and it pays off. There's nothing worse than trying your hardest for a grade and not getting it -- it just doesn't seem right. The atmosphere on campus is unique. It's difficult to put a finger on at first, but you eventually get a feel for it. Working in the department has given me a different perspective on the university itself, but I find I like it even more, now. Down-to-Earth might describe it, but not quite enough. I feel welcome walking around hallways here, always meeting people I know on the bridge and in Bata. There's an amazing sense of community here, where social class lines are blurry -- everyone mingles with everyone. I've learned so much from a variety of people I am confident I wouldn't have the chance to really talk with anywhere else.

I've met many people here who have actually altered the course of my life. Before I came here, I can only think of a few people who truly have had a profound impact on me. But here, I don't know if I could count them on my hands. The experiences I've had with the people I've met here have made me a better friend, a better person, a better student, and a better employee. I think people have even inspired me to be a better parent, one day. I feel like I've been supported by a great network that has been slowly growing over my time here. I know you have my back. People here see a potential in me that had gone unnoticed.

Camp, especially, has a special place in my heart. I think that camp really brought out the best in me, and made me realize how well I fit here. When I arrived at pre-camp, I was unsure of what kind of counsellor I wanted to be. But I realize now that I was actually unsure of what kind of person the staff and kids alike would view me as. As I was saying, I'm becoming the person I've imagined. I hadn't realized until the staff and campers spoke to me and pointed out bits and pieces I'd been searching for. I'm the outdoorsy nature girl, full of hidden talents and who's not afraid to laugh at herself. I'm the counsellor who will dance her butt off in front of an entire gym of people just to make one upset camper laugh. I'm the kind of person that will barrel down a rock slope on a bike although I'm terrified, but pretend it's the most awesome thing ever so the kids aren't as afraid as I am. I'm Gerber. And it rocks.

Another thing I've found at Trent was a place to try new things and really explore. I love that I can take the time to venture out at any time of year and discover something new. Working for camp, in particular, has helped me with this. I've recently tried my hand at rock climbing, mountain biking, spelunking and body surfing. And if you know me, you know anything new and outside is up my alley...

The aspect of personal health and fitness is also very important to me. My life in Peterborough is very active. I love my early morning bike rides along the Rotary Trail. It gives me time to wake up and organize my thoughts. I also find it amusing that I see the same commuters each day on my way to work, who I've become accustomed to waving 'good morning' to. An active life is important to me. During the year, I swim, run, climb, and do yoga often. I'm hoping to get involved with some organized sports such as soccer and ultimate this year -- my competitive side is rumbling...As for health, my roommate and I eat fairly healthy. We love to cook, and I've discovered that cooking is one of my favourite passtimes, when I have the time for it.

All in all, I do well here. I like running in the mornings, British breakfasts with Jen, doodling during classes, hiking for field labs, coffee downtown, making lasagna, playing with the neighbour's dog, hanging out in the pub, and late night walks in the park.

But who's to say I won't move on one day?

I can only hope to find the same happiness I have here, at any point in my life.