This town I have called home for the past 18 years will always remain in my heart. It will always be the one place in the world that will always offer stability, familiarity, and a sense of security. Everywhere I look in this town holds a special memory that I will never forget. I will always return and be engulfed in the memories I once lived here. My first time sneaking out to get food and a milkshake, driving down side streets blaring music with my best friends, TP-ing almost every house in the county without getting caught (surprise, it was ME who TP’d your house), and the dances I went to with my somewhat small high school. This town gives me so much to remember; festivals, parties, and knowing almost every family in the phone book.

This is the place where I formed friendships. Friendships that pushed me to become a better person, a role model, and someone who wanted to make everybody proud. olds the good, the bad, and the ugly. The tragedies that once struck us brought us together through compassion and grace. The triumphs that caused praise throughout the town are unforgettable. And this is the place that holds more memories than I can count, and memories that I could never forget.

I owe so much to this town and the people within it. I did my fair share of wanting to leave and make something of myself elsewhere, but now that the time has come I find myself trying so hard to grasp onto everything I can. I have become extremely appreciative of everything here and everything I have been given. I am beyond thankful for who this town shaped me into and all the experiences I was gifted. I have been lead to amazing people, ambition to follow my dreams, and the path to my future life.

I think it I owe you a big thank you. Thank you for all my people and lifelong memories. Thank you for shaping me into who I am today.