Stress is surprisingly ever so present and real but despite a slight decrease of my own, it is still dangerously proeminent in my entourage (as it is pretty much everywhere, I suppose)-- an issue I hope to remedy now that I've been given (more of) an opportunity to help. I'd be one to let the change sink in at a natural pace but there's another sharp turn coming up fast (with plently of tempting avenues). Although many responsibilities have been lifted off my shoulders (something that I'm obviously grateful for), there is much to do in (precious) little time and it could get overwhelming fast. This is why it's all about focus and discipline here in the exile that is my temporary residence. It's not unlike couch-surfing for an entire year; you'd be anxious to find stable ground to call your own / stable ground as a starting point for all of your various endeavors. The resolve should start next month and I'm adjusting to adjusting in the meantime (dare I say a vacation of sorts? gasp!). Focus, discipline, patience, careful planning -- whatever, I'm eager (lucky) to start.