In June, my daughter Rachel will graduate high school and we will be joining my husband at our home in Tyler. When we moved here in 2000, we promised our girls that we would do whatever we could to let them graduate with their class, and we’ve kept that promise. It’s now just about time for me to move on.

As I part company with neighborsgo, I know it’s not just the newspaper I’m leaving; I’m leaving several communities that I’ve come to have a particular affection for.

My first community was Frisco, where began in October 2005, launching Frisco Neighbors. I had the privilege of attending many parties, events, and fundraisers and made many friends during that time.

In March 2007, I was asked to take over the Southern Denton County neighborsgosection. I was hesitant to leave my Frisco comfort zone. I wasn’t sure how I would be accepted in a community with an already established section of the paper. But as I told my managing editor that day, “What’s life without a challenge?”

The first few weeks were a challenge. I had almost forgotten how to approach people who didn’t know who I was.

But all that changed quickly. I received e-mail after e-mail welcoming me to the community. Some people invited me for coffee, some invited me for lunch, and others suggested that I come and sit in on some of their activities. This acceptance was much like being greeted at a neighbor’s front door and being invited in without question. I thank you for that.

All the caring, funny, and insightful people I’ve met while working with this section have made this a wonderful experience; one I will treasure forever.

One of the highlights of this job is getting  to meet people. While others are sitting in an office somewhere, I got to go the senior centers and meet the members and talk about the fun things they are doing. I’ve told my husband that when I turn 55, I’m joining the senior center; they have a lot more fun than people our age.

I’ve spent time meeting people at ballgames, Fall Festivals, tree lightings, and Back-to-School bashes. I’ve also had the honor of meeting Texas’ Foster Parents of the Year, as well as Gov. Rick Perry.

I would love to mention everyone by name who has contributed to this publication and to neighborsgo.com, but the list would take up all the room allotted me for this column. And since it’s my last, I would rather let you know how much I will miss you being a part of my day.

You’ve been wonderful to work with, and it’s been a privilege serving you, helping you spread all the good news you have to share about your community activities and achievements.

As I make my exit, Robert Tracy will move into my position as editor for Southern Denton County neighborsgo. He is excited about getting to know the community, and I’ve already filled him in on a few of the great events taking place and the wonderful people he will be working with. I know you will embrace him as your editor just as you did me a year ago.

Again, thank you! And, what would my column be without reminding you once again to continue posting your stories, photos, and videos to neighborsgo.com?