Our Laurel =)

I just realized that I didn't do a birthday post for Laurel! How is that possible...so, over a month late, here it is! It's sort of a graduation post as well, a combination of thoughts and pictures. As some of you probably know, Laurel is my favorite photography model...she is so photogenic!

 

But beyond that, she is my role model and inspiration - recently I entered a scholarship essay contest about inspirations, and I thought I would share it here ~ 

      "Laurel. Such a beautiful name...with so much meaning. There will always be only one Laurel in my mind – she is the epitome of beauty, talent, and humility. Since the time I was little, I have looked up to and admired her, basing many of my decisions on her actions. She is my role model, friend, and wonderful big sister.

    When I was four and found out I needed glasses, I didn't want them, because Laurel didn't have them, and she was (and still is) my measure of beauty. I pulled out my first tooth long before it was ready because Laurel was starting to lose hers. But as we grew up, Laurel began to have a greater influence on me, mainly by starting to compete in a national speech and debate league, something I never would have chosen to do. But watching her do it, I decided I could try. It has been four years since then, and speech and debate is my life!

    Next month, Laurel will compete in her last speech and debate competition, and for the first time, I'm actually dreading a tournament. As our shared speech and debate experience closes, I will have trouble holding back the tears. But although it will be bittersweet, I'm looking forward to the continued impact she will have on who I am and the choices I make. Because although we're growing up, I will always think of Laurel as the greatest role model a girl could ever ask for."

It was so hard to condense the amazing inspiration she has been to me into a mere 250 words! 

Most of the pictures I post on this blog are of Laurel at tournaments...but this afternoon I went through all my pictures and found some of my favorite shots of her, just in everyday life. Enjoy!

The photo shoot with Laurel and her lime green suit jacket, before she cut her hair...

The week after she cut it :)

 Laurel's 18th birthday!

Thank you, Laurel, for being such a godly example and wonderful friend - I pray that God will show you what path to take in life, and that where ever it might lead, you will continue to be the shining light for him that you are today. =)