We had another good run you and I. We had some great laughs and shared some great memories together, and for that I am forever grateful.

This summer was one to be remembered not only because of all the great times I had, but also because this summer was about starting a new chapter while finishing another one.

If you've ever started a new book while you were in the middle of reading another book, you've experienced the feeling when your brain crosses the two stories and overall you become confused with what's going on. That's what this summer felt like to me. And although this is one of the best summers I have ever had; this summer was tough.

The feeling hit full force while I was sitting at graduation. Everyone was laughing and chatting with their neighbors and I realized that this would be the last time this group of friends and peers would be all in one place; In the upcoming fall some would be heading off to college while others took gap years or time to work and save money. Change was upon us and I was unsure if I was ready. I mean these people were all I had ever known, we had become so close and we had come so far. I had no idea how I was supposed to leave that all behind. However, I fought back the tears welling up in my eyes and I clapped for my friends walking across the stage.

I decided to go to college out of state. Over 1,000 miles away, where I knew no one and no one knew me. I would be on my own; making friends who knew nothing about me before meeting me. This thought is exciting but terrifying as I find comfort in routines and familiarity. At certain points I remember not believing I would follow through with leaving the only life I knew, but I did it and I am thankful for it.

I met some great and wonderful new friends who I will hopefully be able to introduce to my friends back home. This summer, the one built on ends and beginnings was everything and nothing that I expected, and I'm so happy about that. As one door closes, another one opens, and I am reminded of this as I am sad to see this fantastic summer come to an end. Thank you summer of 2016, thank you for the goodbyes, the see you laters, all the hello nice to meet yous, and thank you for the hope for new beginnings.