Being a journalist is like having a backstage pass to life.

It gives you a closer look at what makes people tick, how things are made and how deeply people care about what matters to them.

My assistant managing editor, Bill Buley, asked me the other day, "Devin, were you one of those kids who always raised their hand in class?"

I laughed so hard, because yes. Yes, Bill, I was that kid, and my wonderful, patient and engaging teachers can all attest to that.

I've always had an innate curiosity. I've always wanted to know more about everything. And I've always loved people. I've always loved talking to strangers, asking, "So, what's your story?"

That's how my mind works. I have a voracious appetite for knowledge and social interaction. I'm fascinated by people and what makes them do what they do. And, obviously, I love to write.

My time at The Press has fed that hunger, and for that I will always be grateful.

In more than eight years at this newspaper, my curiosity and wonder have been given front-row seats to the people and the community I love.

I've touched the feathered chest of an emaciated but recovering bald eagle.

I've explored many a haunted location as the paranormal reporter at Halloween.

I've tumbled down a snowy hill while following around nordic skiers and snowshoers.

I've spent countless hours at the North Idaho State Fair, capturing the excitement.

I've cried with mothers whose babies have died, family members and friends whose loved ones committed suicide and pet owners whose animals have been abused or killed at the hands of others.

I've witnessed the incredible imagination and learning that happens in our local classrooms.

I've celebrated the accomplishments of numerous brilliant, big-hearted young people.

I've found and collected from readers an absurd amount of Ghastly Groaners.

I've photographed people at their most beautiful, their most vulnerable and their most victorious.

I've raced against deadline while sitting in a parking lot in the middle of a snowstorm, connecting to the internet hotspot on my dying phone to write an exciting article so the community would know the next morning which school won Fight for the Fish.

I've shared so many special moments with you, community. Moments I will never forget.

Writer Anaïs Nin is known to have said, "We write to taste life twice, in the moment and in retrospection." It's a beautiful truth for journalists.

This long, strange trip would not have been possible if not for my Press family, the ink-stained wretches who share this fascination with the world and storytelling.

Mike Patrick, your Wednesday editorial is going to be framed in my house, and my parents' house. Those words are stamped forever on my heart, as is your kindness, professionalism, friendship and the example you set every day as you toil in this newsroom. It has been an honor to be your reporter.

Buley, I will miss your sense of humor, your work ethic and fighting with you over who gets to write the next dog story.

Clint Schroeder, my dear publisher, I know my beloved newspaper and coworkers will be well cared for in your capable hands. Thank you for always believing in us.

Maureen Dolan and Brian "Wally" Walker — You might not be at The Press anymore, but you will always be my journalism family.

My reporter kin — Madison Hardy, Kaye Thornbrugh, Hannah Neff and our new Elli Goldman Hilbert — it has been my privilege to work alongside you and see you flourish. I am in awe of you every day. Thank you for working so hard.

My sportsies — Markie and Jason — thanks for putting up with Devin outbursts and random visits through the years. I value your hard work and dedication to our craft. See you tomorrow.

My desk peeps — Hillary, Joel and my G, Glen — thanks for saving my bacon so many times through the years. Your commitment is also appreciated and applauded! Love you all and always.

To the rest of my Press fam, I love you and will miss you too!

To my friends at the many nonprofits and entertainment entities I've had the privilege to work with through the years, keep up the amazing work. Our community needs you! We need people who care, people who dare and people who aren't afraid to go out on a limb for their community.

To my friends in education, keep fighting the good fight. It has been my honor to work with you.

To my future work family at Kootenai Health, I'm excited to join your team and continue my journey where it all began. I've loved writing your stories through the years, and I know we have many amazing stories yet to be told.

Coeur d'Alene Press, thank you for the adventures. I think I might have enough now to write down my own stories someday.