All but the kitchen sink...

Well, I suppose that since I am just now starting this blog, halfway through my Senior year, I cannot just leave you all hanging on some facts about how I came to be where I am now. 

The sister, Brook.

So, when it comes to my family history, you'd have to actually sit down and talk with me, because it would take much longer than a night of typing to write out the whirlwind of which I'd call my first eighteen years. (Some quick facts: my parents were never married and I live with my dad and "bonus mom", Krista. I have three half siblings who are all younger than me: my sisters Taylor and Brook, and my brother Rylee. Brook is the only one who lives with me... I have four pets, blah blah blah...) Okay, now I will just do a quick recap of my Senior year thus far, and then continue on to the latest and greatest memories that will unfold with yours truly.


To start, I have been in Orting for 11 years (with the exception of a semester off in Sumner High School my Freshman year, but again, sit down with me for coffee and I will tell you the things that I have learned from such past lessons...) and this year is going to be my last. My high school career has been pretty crazy; I love being involved in anything and everything, on top of juggling a 4.0 GPA.


I must admit, I couldn't have gotten through a lot of these crazy struggles without some people: Jesus, my band director Aaron Ruff, and my PIC, Zach... 
Jesus fills the gaps in my life, and I need to pour into him as much as he does into me... I'm working on that.

^ That's Zach. Hahaha. :)

Aaron has been a mentor and friend since right before last year, upon his replacement of my old band director. He has filled her shoes, and then some-- he knows so much more than any mentor I've ever had, and I know that I can confide in him with any problem that is over my head and he will give me guidance.
Zach and I had been dating up until the 19th of this month, in order to preserve our friendship. This boy has and will always be one of my best friends. He puts up with so much of my crap and doesn't even break a sweat. Thank you for that, Finn. 

Last year in Jazz Fiasco, practicing some ad/lib on Caravan.

This year, I have had to cut down my extracurricular activities, but I am still involved in NHS, Tri-M (musical honor society), Drum Line, Jazz Band, Pep Band, Concert/Symphonic Band, Suicide Prevention, MAC, and I am currently the Secretary for Spanish Club. 
I also used to teach private lessons to some middle school percussionists, which was a total blast, but my schedule, again, was shot.


Why has everything become so topsy turvy? Allow me to explain. On November 17th, 2011 (a week after my 18th birthday, woo!) was the Orting High School Daffodil Selection. This is the night where three judges pick one (out of ten this year) girl to represent Orting High School as their reigning Daffodil Princess. (I'll explain more in a later post about what this role means...) Against all odds, I was awarded this great honor; a very honorable experience, considering the fact that the other nine ladies were just as qualified, if not more. Upon retrieval of this crown, I have been given many responsibilities, which means that I will be very very busy in the coming months.

The Beautiful 2011 Princess, Krista.

To be honest, I never thought I'd be up there, mustering all courage to say a one minute speech in front of so many people on a stage. But what I could say is that at that point, I was relieved. I was having fun! Of course I was nervous, but who can walk up there with the other nine ladies and escorts all decked out in prom/wedding worthy dresses and not help but look and feel beautiful? That night was so empowering. Though it was a week after my birthday, that was the week where I felt like I really had transformed into a confident woman. 


My favorite part of that night, though, was probably when the judges went back to the staff lounge for deliberation. It was then that the choir and band were to perform. Now, we "princess candidates" were permitted to perform with our groups, but for me there was one problem: I had to play drum set. Look, we girls can try and act all cute and whatnot, but when it comes down to it, there is no way, no how, to play set politely without straddling the snare in a somewhat awkward manner. But you know what? That was amazing. (Seriously folks, put on your gowns and drum, you will get a whole new perspective on life...) Okay, well, maybe it wasn't exactly life-changing, but I felt pretty legit, to say the least.

This would be me on set. Note the dress poof-- everywhere!

Not gonna lie, the dress could have used some straps...

Later I was told by my aunt (who definitely took plenty of pictures) that a little girl near her said to her mother "Is that Princess playing the Drums?!" And her mother said yes. The girl seemed a bit troubled and said "I don't think Princesses are supposed to do that." And her mother's response was perfect: "That goes to show that Princesses can do anything they put their mind to." You see, I think that applies to all people: Princesses, Princess, Frogs... Just people. If we put our minds to doing something, we will achieve the goal. 


That night, I was there to be myself, and it prevailed. Now I must shine for my community, and prove to more than just that girl that the key to tenacity and perseverance is to "Don't Stop Believing". (Yes, I definitely just quoted both the Daffodil Theme, and words from that night's speech.)You hold the tools for your own success.


With these coming months, I am going to be juggling school, daffodil, band, drums, and work. So read with me, I am here to take you along on this journey...

It may rain a lot, but I'm always down for a walk and good conversation.