Off to a Good Start

As the days get colder and the evenings come faster, there's no doubt that fall is almost here. For those who don't know, this is a disappointment to my family, especially to me and mama. Don't get me wrong, fall is great; going to football games, watching the leaves change, going back to school. But there is something about the summer that me and mom love. I guess we were just destined to be beach girls!

I officially completed the first week of my last year of high school, and I can already tell it is going to be a great year. But also a hard one. With AP classes, yearbook staff, cheerleading, student government, FCA and pep club, it's going to be tough to balance it all while applying for college, scholarships AND completing a graduation project. I think it is all worth it though, I want to make the most of this year. It only comes once and I want it to be the best year yet. I know that it will be as long as I focus on God and let Him guide me. God has worked wonders already this school year.

As mom mentioned, three students were in a car wreck. The girl, Jordan Hodges, was killed in the accident. Jordan went to church with me and the few times I hung out with her, she was always welcoming, fun to be around and just sweet. She always had a smile on her face. I guess God just needed another pretty angel. You wouldn't believe how the community has pulled together, it just amazed me. One of my friends organized a candlelight vigil at West via Facebook, thinking that only 30 people would come. Instead, over 400 people came. Me and my best friend Lori went to the visitation, and over 3,000 people signed the guestbook. 90 people were saved after the funeral. Not only has the community came together, but also my school. We are havinga change drive for the other two students to help the families pay for medical expenses. I know that Jordan had a close relationship with God, so there is no doubt where she is right now. I also know that right now she is smiling, because nothing would bring her more joy than knowing she made a difference in so many people's lives in helping them to know the Lord that she loves.

Here are some pictures from the vigil. Isn't it beautiful?