Mmm mmm mm the leaves are falling

         Pumpkins, halloween, beautiful trees, cold weather, warm clothing, seasonal food - just some of my favorite things about October. Now is finally the time of year when student's schedules are settled and classes are starting to become more familiar each day. We are becoming more comfortable with our newfound teachers, classwork, and friends, and our extra curriculars are kicking off. But what was pleasantly new this year was the hype for my senior spirit week. The level of excitement and energy for our senior year was explosive, and I've never seen so much red in my life. After going to lunch time activities and decking out in the daily attire (whether it be pajamas or the tackiest tourist clothes we own) the whole school was more spirited than I've ever seen them. It was a blast to bond even more with my class and enjoy a little competition with the other grades for a week. I can't wait until Doernbecher week, because the seniors still have a lot of fire in them!
          While meeting with my English teacher last week to go over my college essay, we shared a very touching moment that reminded me of how close I am to the faculty of St. Mary's. She commented on how my essay was very authentic to who I am, recounting an old story of me in my freshman year English class doing a self-evaluation. Just the fact that my teacher remembered such a simple incident, and knows me well enough to judge my work and help me improve my writing, made my week.
           As a last tidbit of information, I want to express how in awe I am of the wonderful Blues Bridge Walk that SMA holds each October. This school fundraiser really makes each student feel a part of a team, joining together to collect money for tuition assistance, extracurricular activities, and other academic needs that make the school what it is. As a school we collected over $100,000, and enjoyed a lovely walk to the Steel Bridge and back with friends and coworkers. I reconnected with the ladies in my TA and am sad to have walked my last BBW.