I'd be lying if I said I didn't feel like my time here was too short. The freedom I was given as a designer and the friendships I've made have really made me feel lucky and loved. The experiences will be taken with me to the next place. Life is transient and I'm so excited about my next adventure. I'll be en route to Hawaii soon! And I won't be venturing out alone. My boyfriend will be working at Barbers Point on Oahu. Once we leave we will be going to Mississippi for my dear friend's wedding that I'm in. We'll stop in Mobile, drive up to Ohio with a pit stop in Black Mountain N.C., on to Oklahoma, and finally to LA where we fly to the island on July 12. I can't wait to drive across the country. It's something I've always wanted to do. I have a couple of job hopefuls I'll be meeting with once I am on the Island. In the meantime, I'll be focusing on illustrating and freelancing guided by the confidence and knowledge I've picked up here. (I'll be working on some themed book sculptures. Contact me! End of shameless plug.)

I have truly been shaped by The Pilot in all areas of design. I'll be leaving here a journalist. That's something I couldn't say confidently before. What I've learned will be carried with me in whatever direction my career goes and I am incredibly grateful for that. - What conversation are you trying to have with the reader? The best and/or smartest presentations start with the headline. Doesn't matter if it isn't pretty as long as it is smart. In a good work environment everyone has your back. It's endless. - I'm so lucky to have worked with such brilliant and passionate people.

The relationships I've built here have been my therapy through my through job stress, homesickness and life. Many have become extended family. As this chapter closes they are there cheering me on. It is comforting and encouraging during such an exciting, yet terrifying, leap. One coworker told me, "You know, I have always thought that if you aren't scared at all the move isn't worth it."

Thank you, Virginia.

As always, brb.