I refuse to believe I am a senior. It’s impossible to think four years have gone by so fast. I still feel like that awkward freshman freaking out over every assignment given to me; all that’s changed is my grade and hair color.

Somehow I survived this part of my life called high school. I could give some advice on how to do the same, but let’s be real; I don’t know what I’m talking about. Instead, I’ll just tell all about how this mess went for me.

I can’t say high school was the easiest thing I have ever had to experience. The amount of tears over countless papers, tests and overall stress of school pushed me to my limits. Even in my worst moments, I somehow got through it. Without my friends and the memories we made, I probably wouldn’t have made it.

I’m not sure where to start, but I guess my first year in high school is as good a place as any. I didn’t really know what to expect freshmen year, but thanks to band I knew I was coming into this new chapter of my life with at least a few friends. Because of band, my freshman year started a month before everyone else. Marching band has to be one of my favorite things I have been a part of, besides newspaper of course. I was able to become close with so many people, mainly because I saw them more than my own family. However, after much thought, I made the major decision to quit band going into my junior year to put my time into journalism.

Little did I know within quitting something I thought I loved so much, I’d find another family.

Throughout the past two years my love for photography and writing has grown into something more than just a hobby. Who knew signing up for photojournalism sophomore year would have such an impact in my life? I wasn’t planning to sign up for newspaper, which still amazes me to this day. After quitting band, something that was such a huge part of my high school experience, my life was filled with the art of words rather than the notes of music.

Senior year has left me wishing this part of my life wouldn’t end so soon. I have an endless amount of memories to look back on thanks to high school.

The feeling of everyone jumping around and the roaring of the crowd when the axe returned back home still hits me and probably always will. The adventures of driving around with some of my closest friends to the soccer games and being able to see my best friend make history by making playoffs after almost 20 years. Taking some of my best pictures at the rugby games alongside the girl who you can always find attached to my hip.

All of these memories were created with people I can say I genuinely love. They say you find out who your true friends are in high school, and I can’t help but agree. My squad will forever be a part of me. Despite going to different colleges and taking separate career paths, they can still expect an invitation to my wedding.

Above all, one person stood by me throughout just about every situation. Whether it was personal or school related issues, she was there.

Our first year on staff, we were inseparable. You could always find us working on stories or videos together and signing up to take pictures at the same games. On the sign out sheet, it was always D and V. She’s the sweet to my tea. The Jacob to my Whitesides.

School wasn’t the only place you would find us together. Some of my favorite times include seeing Jacob in concert for the millionth time, driving everywhere for different sporting events and her coming over at random times to watch scary movies.

Not all times have been good. We’ve shared our fair amount of tears over boys, tests and the fear of losing one another. The thing is, I know we won’t lose touch. She is not just my best friend. She is my sister.

Desiree, I love you so much and I can’t thank you enough for dealing with me through all these years. You are a beautiful and amazing person. Stay awkward.

But honestly, thank you to all my friends for being there for me. Y’all are the most amazing people out there. I know you will all go far.

Thank you to my teachers for doing every possible thing to make sure I succeed. Especially you Ms. Boyle, you have helped me realize my capabilities through journalism and photography.

And most importantly, to my family, I don’t even know where to begin. Mom, you remind me every day how hard work can pay off. I can see myself becoming more like you every day and it kind of scares me. Dad, I will always be your little girl, despite how tall I may get. Lastly to my brothers and sisters, I can’t thank you enough for showing me what it really means to be a family.

Overall, I can’t say I didn’t enjoy my years at Lewisville High School. The struggle was real, but I’m going to miss my time here.

And to all those who say it’s not cool to have Farmer pride, get lost. Just kidding. I really love this school.

I wish I didn’t have to say goodbye.