Recently, I moved out of my house into a dorm room almost 100 miles away. I didn't know anyone and I hadn't met my roommate. So I hung out with my roommate after a long day of moving in I had time to reflect on how my life has been up until this point, my hometown, my school, and so much more. I have realized how personal my hometown truly was, they knew your business pretty much before you did. So this is a moving away letter to those in my town.

I would be lying if I said I didn't miss you guys! Don't get me wrong, I love it here but you all had a part in bringing me here. Whether it was my teachers and dedicated staff at the school helping me learn how to keep track of school work, my parents for keeping up on my grades, my neighbors for being the best around (this is just overall, I love my neighbors like family) and overall the entire town has taught me how to deal with bullying, how to respect those from all walks of life, how to appreciate a good person, and how to make some friends. Even though this isn't nearly all that you have taught me through the years, this is what I can remember that can be used for this article.

Keeping track of school work.

Yes, I understand that it's now my responsibility to find my classes and school work, but for 13 years you all helped me figure that out. So thank you.

Parents...

I could never thank you guys enough for everything you have done in my 18 years of life, but thank you. Thank you for the late hours of making sure my homework was done, making sure it was done AND turned in and making sure I always had a warm and safe bed to sleep in. I love you guys.

My neighbors, even the new ones.

I think of you guys as my extended family. You have all been more family like than anyone else besides my parents honestly. I love all of you, even the ones that just moved in.

The town, for bullying respecting, appreciating. and finding new friends.

I have had to deal with all of this in a small town and that prepares me for college too. I was worried about finding new friends because everyone seems to live in a city, but I tell them about my special town and I make friends pretty fast. I have a respect that some kids didn't learn, and I have the entire town to thank for that.

Thanks everyone, and know I miss everyone and will be home soon,

Ashton