Dear Cedar Park, Texas,

I miss you. I am now halfway through my four years of college and I feel as though my life has changed so much but my roots continue to be the same. These past two years have been some of the hardest years I will ever face, but to be able to still receive love and support from those at home makes this process worth it all.

First off, I want to thank you for all the memories you've given me.

Our town was similar to others, but I still felt like we were in our own little world sometimes. I remember attending the Fourth of July celebrations and decorating a bike or wagon with my dad. I remember all of my first days of school, and how that would be the only day I was ever on time for school. Then, when high school came around, Monday through Thursday were a drag until we got to Friday night football games where we lost our voices and made so many memories and friends. Texas lives and breathes high school football. Followed by countless hours at the local Whataburger. Saturday we got up and travelled to Austin just to roam the streets. And on Sundays we ended back at home just in time to watch Sunday Night Football. We spent most weeknights, weekends, and summer days out at the lake that was more like a pile of rocks up until recently.

Next, I am sorry that I don't come home as often as I probably should.

It's on these hot summer days I try really hard not to think about you. I almost feel like an international student, being so far from home. If it weren't for social media, I might as well be on the moon because I hardly ever get the chance to step foot on the motherland. I am sorry that I can't be there to help you with the flooding. I am sorry I am never home to see a homecoming game or go out dancing with my friends. Trust me, I know that driving through the Texas hill country would be better than working all the time to pay for college.

Lastly, thank you for teaching me so much about myself.

After my mother got sick, and I finished my courses in school, I packed my bags so fast that I forgot to say a proper goodbye. I know it's not a permanent goodbye, and that I will most likely be back there soon, but for the 17 years I spent with you; the life lessons I learned will stay with me forever. As I get back to being an average college student instead of daydreaming about floatin' down the river or spending a day at Schlitterbahn, I reminisce about all that you've given me. Thank you for telling me to wear my senior Mum as a necklace rather than pinning it to my shirt. Thank you for helping me build my summer feet by March. Thank you for agreeing that Kerbey Queso is perfect at any time of the day and that nothing is better than Texas Football.

Until we meet again, Texas forever.