Leaving Reno...

Today is my last day in Reno and the emotions that I am feeling are completely overwhelming. I honestly didn't think that I would ever feel this sad about leaving a town that up until recently I despised. Being an emotional wreck these last couple weeks can only be attributed to one thing: the amazing friends and family that I have adquired here in Reno. It's really hard to explain how I feel and have never been the best at putting what I feel into words, but I need to get some things out before I leave.

I just want to say Thank You to all my friends who have supported me and loved me unconditionally throughout these last 5 years. I didn't know that friends like I have actually existed in the world. At my lowest times I have had people around me to lift me up and help me through the dark times. And when I was at my best, I have been fortunate to have those same people around to congratulate and support. The feelings that I have experienced from my friends I wish everyone could experience.

I especially want to say Thank You to Mary, Matt and Estela for letting me crash at their houses these past 3 weeks. It has meant more to me than I can say and I am so grateful. You all are more than welcome to crash with me anytime en Espana...in fact, it would be my pleasure.

Thank you to all who came to my going-away party and made it such a special night for me. Erin, you are such a fantastic friend and the party was so perfect. I couldn't have done better myself.

I am really excited about my new adventures in Spain and can't hardly wait to begin my new job. Don't get me wrong...I am terrified. But as much as it scares me to jet-off to a new country by myself, I am even more scared to settle in Reno where life would be so easy. I feel the need to challenge myself every day and this is, by far, the biggest challenge yet.

Before I forget, I also want to say Thank You to all who have showered my with gifts these past couple weeks. Lance, the necklace that you gave me is perfect and I haven't taken it off yet. Estela, I was so surprised by the LaraBars and I know it may seem like something simple, but it truly warmed my heart. I will think of you everytime I'm snacking on one. Matt and Mary, I love the travel book you gave me! All the journals I have had in the past have been from someone special in my life and this one fits in perfectly with the rest. To everyone else that has bought me drinks/dinner/coffee/snacks, they have all been very much appreciated and have added to the great memories I have of Reno.

It's hard to express how much I'll miss everyone but just know that I'll be thinking of you all often. You all have enriched my life more than I could have ever asked for and I couldn't be more thankful and blessed by the people I have around me.

These are just a few photos of the last couple weeks in Reno. As soon as I get more, I'll post them.

Erica and I
Estela and I

The ladies of the Polo Lounge