As my time at The Brazil Times draws to a close, I've started to reflect on some of the things I've learned since I joined the editorial staff in September.

I have learned a lot about the craft of writing and the need to be fair and accurate.

I've glimpsed a little on the art of layout and making photos front-page ready.

But most of my Brazilian education has been about people and how people make the decisions behind the economy, the government and the health of a community.

I've learned there are always an abundance of projects and never enough money in a small community.

I've learned, beyond the normal faces at City Hall, there are so many community boards and groups that make services and amenities available to the public.

I've learned there is no keeping of secrets, but I should have known that before.

I've learned there will be people who will complain just for the sake of complaining, and those who criticize without reading entire articles.

I've also learned there are people who believe they can do anyone else's job better than the person in the position.

I've learned how, no matter the reason, this community rallies around those in need.

I've learned that a few bad kids, and a few noisy parents, makes a very hard working corporation look like it's not trying.

I've met some fantastic young people who will make a difference in the lives of others if they are given the tools and opportunities to succeed.

I've met some fantastic retired people who want to pass on the caretaking and guardianship of the community to the next generation, but are having trouble finding anyone who wants to take responsibility.

I've learned communities all around the country are facing similar financial and social issues as Clay County, but that doesn't mean the problems go away.

I've learned listening can go much farther than telling or questioning when trying to tell a story.

I've learned no matter who you are or what you do, no one wants to be forgotten or left out.

I've learned everyone has a job to do, and my job is to ask questions. Your job may be to not answer my questions. But I still have to ask.

I've learned a cup of coffee at 9 p.m. can help get a story in by deadline at 10 p.m.

I've learned being alone in car for too many consecutive hours can lead to panic attacks or big personal revelations, depending on how many 9 p.m. cups of coffee one has consumed.

I've learned to not take the job home if at all possible, to put family first, to make sure I take care of myself and a mess of other advice that most people don't learn until they're a few more years into their careers.

I've learned you can never have too many mothers, especially at your first real job (Thanks Ivy, Robin, Cathy, Jan and Lynne).

I've learned you can never have too many big brothers, especially at your first real job (Thanks Jason, Jason, John, John and Carey).

I've learned everyone has to fill the candy jar once in a while, otherwise no one will. And a day without chocolate is like a day without sunshine.

I've learned a messy desk is the antithesis of a productive day, most days.

I've learned a McDonald's side salad and snack wrap is the best fast, healthy meal $2.50 can buy.

And most of all, I've learned I'm going to miss Clay County, and its people, very much while on the East Coast.