Most people don't like moving.
The packing and preparing alone can go on for weeks. It's expensive and it's not something I personally enjoy; but, I've done it again.
For the fourth time in my adult life, I've relocated to another city in Missouri.
The first time, I left my hometown, St. Louis, with a packed SUV and headed to West Plains to get my associate's degree. After graduation two years later, I loaded a truck and two SUVs to Springfield, eager to earn my bachelor's degree in print and internet journalism.
Wrapping another tassel on my rearview mirror for my collection, I returned to West Plains, this time with a U-Haul and two cars filled to capacity. As a proud alumna, I worked 14-months within the Missouri State University system, giving back to the amazing institutions I love. I felt it was right for them to pay me, after four years of college.
During my time in higher education, my passion of writing was fulfilled at every turn. Homework assignments, working for the campus newspaper and interning at the local NPR-affiliate station verified that writing was "my thing." There were stories all over town, which made the city seem alive.
I missed writing and learning about the people around me, so here I am.
With a larger U-Haul, I moved to Jefferson City to get back to writing about people, news and everything in-between here in Mid-Missouri.
I don't like moving, but it's taught me a lot. I've traveled many small towns and big cities within the last five years. Although this area is new, there's no doubt in my mind it'll work out.
I'm still in Missouri because Missouri is home.
Editor's note: Danisha Hogue started Sept. 4 with Central Missouri Newspapers Inc. She will cover eastern Moniteau County for the California Democrat, as well as other assignments for the Jefferson City News Tribune.