Thanks, NatsTown, for enriching my life in so many ways

Well, friends. It's that time. I know there's no crying in baseball, but it's difficult to say goodbye. Over the past five years, I've been blessed with countless opportunities to immerse myself in a game I love with all my heart. I learned so much during that time, more than I ever could have imagined. One of the most rewarding parts of writing this blog was showcasing and promoting all of the good work the Washington Nationals do in the community. I hope in some small way, this blog has taken you behind the scenes and given you an opportunity to appreciate that baseball players are human beings. They care deeply about their families, teammates, franchise, fans and the communities they serve. Along the way, I met so many of you. I want you to know that you've enriched my life in many ways. NatsTown is a very special place full of optimistic, hungry baseball fans. You opened up and shared your stories, including many about the pain of losing your team many years ago. Through our shared experiences and interactions (whether at the ballpark or online), we've developed real friendships and I look forward to continuing those for many years to come. I will forever be grateful to Todd Webster, Spiro Alafassos, Jim Cuddihy and everyone at MASN for allowing me to be part of their team. I'd like to thank all of my friends at MASN, as well as my fellow writers and bloggers in Washington for showing me the ropes, shaping and guiding my career and providing continued support. I'm not sure if there is a kinder, more caring person in baseball than Bob Carpenter. I'm grateful for his friendship, generosity, support and guidance. I hope he knows how much of a difference he's made in my life. The same goes for Debbi Taylor, whose endless stream of advice was so helpful to me as I navigated the baseball world. As many of you know, my friend and colleague Ben Goessling teased me to no end over the past few years (and that was before a Super Bowl victory over my Steelers gave him more ammunition). His brotherly antics and pranks kept me on my toes and always laughing. Substantively, he taught me much more than he'll ever know. I also owe a special thanks to MLB.com's Bill Ladson for his patience and honest feedback. Bill always pushed me to grow and trust my work. I could continue to list all of the special folks who shaped my experience with this blog, but I think you all know who you are. It was a pleasure and an honor to be part of the MASNsports.com team, led by our jovial editor Pete Kerzel. I hope you'll continue to read the fine work they produce here. As for me, my next chapter will be with SB Nation in Washington D.C. I'll still be at the ballpark, online and hopefully blogging again sometime soon. Please keep in touch. All my best, Kristen