I don't like goodbyes. I don't think many people do. In fact, I fear that I will be too emotional to write this particular goodbye in two weeks. Rather than write an exceptionally sad post about leaving Pittsburgh, I would rather focus on people and this city have given me.

To My Parents-- Though we will live in different states for the first time, I know I will be okay and our relationship will stay strong. Though I will be the first to admit I am spoiled, you have also taught me how to stand on my own two feet and to hang in there even when things are tough. Every good part of me comes from one of you, and I know that will stay with me no matter where I live. Thank you for staying on the emotional roller coaster of raising me. I know I did not make it easy. Mom, you will forever be the voice in my head telling me to do the right thing even when I really don't want to do it. I love you both.

To My Friends-- We will be okay. Distance has separated us before, and we have survived it. I know you will answer my random texts even if we haven't spoken in months. I know you will be there when I need you. I know I will be there when you need me. Friendship, at its best, is beautiful and unwavering. I'm so incredibly lucky and grateful to have you for friends. You have an open invite to visit DC. I will miss you all so much. I couldn't replace any of you even if I tried which we all know I won't do.

To My Coworkers-- Honestly, I didn't go into this job looking to make friends. I'm a little bit of a Ron Swanson. Despite my dripping sarcasm and my best efforts to remain aloof, a few of you snuck under the friendship radar. Sincerely, thank you for being there through the better and worse days. Thank you for listening to me without judgment or gossiping about me. Thank you for answering my midnight texts about whether or not tomorrow was indeed a dress down day. I'll miss you.

To Current and Former Students-- Thank you. You have taught me to think before I speak as you will remember whatever I said even when I inevitably don't. You have made me laugh on days I didn't think I could laugh. You have given me so much hope for the future. I hope that you are brave enough to chase your dreams. Here are some of the things we forget to tell you in the classroom. We do worry about you. We always want the best for you. Yes, even when we are yelling, we still want the best for you. We hope that you are strong enough to be yourself. We remember you long after you graduate, and we hope that you are happy and doing something you love. This goodbye may actually be the toughest because I don't know how many of you I will see again. Please know that I'm always rooting for you. Just from a different state now.

Pittsburgh-- I have loved and hated you. I love that most people are friendly here, and it's almost impossible to leave the house without running into someone I know. I hate that it is often cold and raining. Ironically, I am writing this on a very sunny day. I'm sure it will be beautiful the day I leave. I'm a Pittsburgher. I have a feeling that is going to stay with me no matter where I go. Pittsburgh has been the backdrop to all of my greatest successes. The city has also witnessed some of the hardest days of my life. In the end, Pittsburgh has given me a backbone of steel which is a very fitting parting gift. Go Pirates! Go Pens! Hail to Pitt!

With all of that said, Virginia, the bar is set high for you. You're going to have to work a little bit to earn my love. I have a feeling the food and shopping will help. I would have said history, but I really do like food.

Pittsburgh, may we meet again.