Final Stretch

My summer is officially over, and I have completed two days of my senior year at Millsaps. With the type of summer I had, it really wasn't too depressing to get back into the swing of things. This summer challenged me and somewhat changed me. I spent it studying for the OAT (Optometry Admissions Test), taking it in the middle of July, and completing my applications. I had many ups and downs, but my family and Michael were consistently by my side, and for that I am grateful. I'm looking forward to see what God has in the works for my immediate post-Millsaps plans. I drank many a mocha frappes from McDonalds and even got to read a book for fun (The Help) near the end of the summer. I still haven't finished reading the book, but I cheated and saw the movie. It was such a great film! I highly recommend it.

I wrapped up the summer by visiting Michael in St. Louis and had such a fantastic time! I really enjoyed seeing his city and meeting his friends. Here we are at the top of the arch:

My mom did some amazing cooking this summer (I must be really tired of the Caf because I had requests for each night). When Michael visited for my last few days at home, she went all out! So much fun. Here's Michael preparing his shrimp for the grill:

My first days back in Jackson were fine and the usual adjustment. I'm living in the same dorm that I have for the past three years, but I've upgraded! I am now on the "outside" portion of the building enjoying my own bedroom and a common living room area. Don't get me wrong, Casey and I love each other, but we're loving having our own space. My classes are fine so far (no organic chemistry this year...can I get a hallelujah?). I took the traditional department senior picture with the rest of the biology majors on the first day of class thinking, "I'm finally here!" It feels great.