Hey there Ohio,

I know we have definitely had a love-hate relationship over the years and I know that you know that I have always planned on leaving you at some point. As graduation is approaching within the year, I am looking to take a large leap and go out of state for new and exciting opportunities. I know that we have often discussed my leaving, but now that it is truly upon us I have some important things that I would like to say.

I’m sorry that it has taken me so long to realize all of the things that you have given me over the years, but I think that it is only human nature to realize what you have just as you are leaving it behind. It’s kind of like how you don’t realize just how much you need and relied on your mom until you are leaving the nest. Just like she loved me even when I had an attitude and didn’t appreciate her presence, you continued to create an amazing home for me when I treated you the same way. I have so much to thank you for and the following is just the tip of the iceberg.

Thank you for having four beautiful seasons. Nothing will ever compare to a crisp fall day in Ohio for me. Thank you for raising me near Columbus and making me a Buckeye fan. Thank you for my beautiful family, friends, boyfriend, and the many people that I have met along the way. Thank you for teaching me how to drive through every type of construction possible in the summers and in every single kind of precipitation, especially in the winter.

Thank you for preparing me to expect the unexpected in life through the ever-changing weather forecast as well as deer running across the road at the worst possible moments. Thank you for all of the gorgeous country back roads on which I have had the privilege to drive. Thank you for my years of education setting me up for happiness and success. I know that we briefly discussed me going out of state for college, but I am so grateful that I received my higher education from my home-state.

There are not enough words to describe what you have done for me. I know that you understand why I need to leave for a while. The opportunities that await me are something that I need at this point in my life. You have sheltered me and while I was always bitter about that I now realize that you did it to keep my impulsive-self grounded so that I could be successful. Thank you for having my best interest at heart and knowing me better than I know myself.

So as I plan to leave you just know that you made me who I am. No other state can say that. Whether it be to finally settle down or just to pay a visit, I will be back someday and you will always be my home no matter where I end up geographically. You truly have been “the heart of it all” for me and everything that I have become. Thank you again and know that when I leave it is not “Goodbye” but “See you later, old friend.”

O-H!

Love Always,

A Proud Ohioan