As I see all the pictures of my former classmates begin to move into their schools, reality of moving away from home starts to hit me… this is it. The day that I never thought would get here is actually knocking on my doorstep waiting for me to answer. I’m eighteen years old, I will be leaving my family and friends and I won’t be attending the school that has became my home over the past few years. I’m getting kicked out of the nest and everyone is expecting me to fly but before I let go, I need to say thank you.

First off, thank you to my best friend. Thank you for always being there for me, whether it was crying hysterically, ranting, laughing or just being dumb, you always listened. The endless sushi dates, movie nights, dancing, singing at the top of our lungs, waterpark adventures and of course, binge watching One Tree Hill will be memories that I will cherish for forever. I understand that our friendship will be different now and that we won’t always be able to do everything that we use to do. But I do promise to always answer your phone call and, if I miss it, I will call back the second I get the chance!!

Secondly, thank you to the school that has built me up and prepares me for this journey. Woodward High School has some amazing teachers in it and if you read my last article you have already heard of one but there are at least 15 more. No one wants you to see you succeed more than your past teachers, coaches and school system. This school has taught me so many life lesson that I promise will help me make this transition easier.

Finally, thank you to my parents. You have raised a girl that knows right from wrong, that stands up for what she believes in, doesn’t let other walk all over her and that will miss you both so so much. Momma, you have taught me to believe in myself by constantly reminding me that I can do anything that I set my mind to. You have also taught me the importance of keeping red away from my whites when I wash them and it only took me two times to actually learn the lesson!! I know that this will be so hard on you but I promise I will eventually come home. I don’t plan on leaving for forever and never coming back. Lee, well you have done everything in you power to make sure that I am happy and never go without. I am so so blessed to have you as a stepdad. Daddy, I know that we aren't as close as we use to be but you still have taught me many lessons. Even if we don't talk as much, I know that you are always thinking about me. Thank you all for always being there to help me achieve my dream. Thank you for giving me such a wonderful foundation. Thank you for loving me so much.

“It’s the oldest story in the world. One day you’re 17 and planning for someday. And then quietly and without you ever really noticing, someday is today. And then someday is yesterday. And this is your life.” -Nathan Scott ("One Tree Hill")