After moving out of our apartment, we realized that if saying goodbye to “things” was hard, it is going to be even more difficult to leave friends and family. Kristen and I realize the importance of leaving well, but why is it so hard to let go or say goodbye?

I (Danny) figure we can handle goodbyes in 2 ways…either avoid the goodbye all together (super unhealthy) or face the goodbye head on.

Unfortunately, I (Danny) didn’t realize that I was an avoider. Instead of allowing myself to grieve well, I become a busybody or just completely ignore the goodbye all together. Knowing this about myself, I am having to make a conscious effort to face the goodbye. At first, facing the goodbye is much harder. However, it has taught me how to have healthy closure. By not acknowledging that thing, place (apartment, austin), or person is gone, we all will have a much more difficult time living without it/them in the long run. Saying goodbye and proper grieving is what allows you to move on. On a positive note, Kristen and I are truly thankful for technology. Things like skype, viber, what’s app, ect. are a huge blessing in keeping in contact with loved ones. But, don’t let this be a crutch/excuse for not saying goodbye!!! 

Here are some pictures from our goodbyes and bucket list experiences:

Neighbors and friends from IMT:

Brunch at Chez Z with Kristen’s fam:

Fishing in Port O’Connor with Kristen’s dad:

Port Aransas with Danny’s family:

Other random things around Austin: