In scary movies, basements are usually places where people end up dying. But the cold and often sunless basement of The Daily Texan has always been a place of life and laughter — albeit with frequent interjections of the groans of frustration which come with working into the late hours of the night while still having a paper due the next day.

But, despite the long hours, with the help of Kin’s runs, coffee and excellent music choices — thanks, Jenny! — we always made it out alive.

Of course, beyond Kin’s runs, coffee and music, the best part of the night was working with a great crew. 

To my Tuesday night copy kittens: You guys are the best, hands down, and I’m so glad I had the chance to work with you all. Lexi, the queen of punny headlines you are and always will be. David, my sassy friend, if second dinner on Tuesdays makes you happy, you keep eating second dinner. And, sweet Natalie, never be afraid to join in on the craziness of your fellow kittens. 

To the Tuesday night design dogs: You never cease to amaze me with your work. Hirrah and Jenny, I’m going to miss hearing all of your crazy stories, roasted potatoes and all. And, Jack, please stay out of the trash can. 

To the lovely Elisabeth: It’s been an honor and a pleasure to work with you. I know you’re going to do great things, but please let those great things include baked goods too. 

And, to my fellow copy cats: We’ve been through a lot. From tryouts to Throwback Thursdays, we’ve done it all. Sara, you’ve been a great mama cat. Even though I’ll probably be going back to MLA, thanks for keeping me on top of AP and helping me become a better editor. Reeana, thanks again for being my moral support for Throwback. I was close to actually dying in the basement, but you made sure I stayed alive. And, Brett, we’ve been together since we were fledgling kittens, navigating through the AP stylebook. For teaching me Russian and buying me quesadillas, spasibo.  

I never imagined myself working at a newspaper and, chances are, I probably won’t be at another newspaper any time soon. But I’m thankful for the time I’ve had as a copy cat and for everything I’ve learned sitting at the corner computer. And, though I won’t be spending my nights in the basement anymore, this isn’t goodbye. It’s just a “see you later.”

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