Well this is it. My final blog as 2010-2011 International Thespian Officer Region 1 Representative. As I reflect on the previous year, it seems so surreal that things have changed so much. At this time last year, I was standing on the edge of a new horizon, preparing for Festival 2010, and excited for what the future might hold. Now, as I do the same things again, I am reminded of how I felt a year ago, and am reminded of how different those feelings are from the ones that I have now. It’s absolutely crazy.

When something comes full circle like this in your life, however, it’s always important that you look back and remember where you’ve been. I smile when I think of the friends that I made in New Mexico, Nevada, California, Oregon, New Mexico (Again), Colorado, Columbus, Washington DC, and Cincinnati. Being an ITO, for me, has been so much more than just a position. It’s been a lifestyle of leadership, and a dedication to excellence. I hope, for future generations of ITO, that this same dedication echoes throughout their terms.

And now, as I leave, I think that it’s important not only to thank these people, mentioned above, that I have learned to love and cherish, but also my fellow ITO on the 2010-2011 Board. You guys are incredible- I don’t know what I would have done without you in my life. And to all the other thespians out there, some words of advice before I go. Judy Garland once said “Always be a first-rate version of yourself, instead of a second-rate version of someone else.” I hope that rings true for you. I love you guys. Thank you for the past year. This is your Region 1 Rep, signing off. :)