annat02’s Blog

I honestly don’t think i can narrow it down to one true hero in my life, although there have been so many people who have influenced me positively. These people have helped to shape who I am and how I’ve turned out, and have impacted me in more ways than they will ever know.

MY MOTHER. My mom is probably the person I have spent the most time with, the person I’ve argued with the most, I’ve confided in, cried with, laughed and joked with. She leads a very stressful life, but somehow manages all the pressure thrust upon her with a smile. She has taught me that everything can’t and won’t turn out how you expected, but will usually end up working out even better. She is my walking example to never ever fear the unexpected or the unknown.

MY FRIENDS. I also couldn’t narrow it down to just one person, but I happen to be fortunate enough to have a very tight knit group of friends. They will always be there for me, no matter what. Sometimes, they are way too honest, but atleast i know I’m getting the truth. They have taught me to laugh at myself, and not always take everything so seriously.

MY FATHER. My dad is quite the character. To him, life is one big party, and everything can be fixed with a good hearty chuckle. And, for him atleast, this carefree attitude seems to work. He’s been dealt some awful blows, and somehow accepts them, realizing that he can’t change the past. Some of the best advice I have ever had, has been given to me by him.

MY COACH. For three years I did all-star cheer, for a team called Southside cheer. The gym owner, Derek, had such a huge impact on me while I was on the team, though I’m sure he’ll never realize it. He is definitely one of those people you just really don’t like when you meet him. He will push you to do your very best, and just won’t settle for anything less. Sometimes he comes off as pushy or mean, but he knows what you’re capable of, and doesn’t want to see anybody fall short of their full potential. So many times I have been ready to give up, or so tired I thought I couldn’t run the routine any harder. He never did yell, but got the message across that he wasn’t giving us a choice but to keep going, he expected none less than our 100 percent effort and a good attitude with it. An attitude like this, that anything can be accomplished through perserverance, and sometimes a little sweat, will take you literally anywhere you want to go in life, any job or college.

          These are just a few of the people in my life who make a HUGE difference. I look up to them and respect them. They are wonderful people that we all could really learn from.

Especially living in a place like Oregon, I thought the color green was a pretty obvious choice for me. Nature is a huge part of my life. We are fortunate to have lush forrests and thriving plants all around us.

Probably my favorite way to spend summer is to go camping with my friends and family, whether we just go to the lake for a day, or stay for a week. Being surrounded by nothing but green trees and plants, and just having everything simplified for a week is really very relaxing.