And so I’ve come to my final day at East Otago – a lot sooner than I imagined I would.

Saying farewell is not one of my strong points and so, instead, I would like to take a moment to say “thank you”. Thank you, all, for becoming my family. For laughing with me, accepting me and letting me into your lives. It is a huge privilege to be invited into being part of your own special journey and you have let me in openly and happily.

I have learnt so much about the demands of farming (huge respect from this city girl), the trials of teaching (your teachers all deserve medals) and the ups and downs of teenager’s lives.

You have kept me young. Helped me laugh and given me the warmest of hugs when I’ve needed them the most.

Thank you!