A chapter of my life closed. I finished high school! This day wasn't at all how I envisioned it in my head, but it was amazing just the same. 

It was a grand ceremony. A lot of the graduates gave speeches, sang, and played musical instruments. It was a very joyous day, and the best part is that my parents didn't cry. :)

Nana and Mr. Jim and I

Joshua and I

Mawmaw and Pawpaw and I

Olivia and I

I am so glad to be DONE! It feels so weird to know that I never have to do school again unless I want to. I am so excited to see where God takes me this next phase!

GRACE

1. learn your social security number 

I didn't realize just how much people use their SSN before my senior year. It has been so helpful to have it memorized. You will need your SSN for applying to colleges, making doctors appointments, and filling out job applications. And it's much safer to have the number stored in your head rather than having the card stored in your purse.

2. master basic car maintenance  

Soon you will moving out, getting a job, maybe going to college. Your dad and or brother isn't going to be around to help you when you have car trouble, so learning simple things like changing a tire and checking oil can be a lifesaver. Learn about your car. If your car starts acting differently don't ignore it, get it looked at by a pro.

3. completely and confidently learn how to drive

Maybe this isn't a problem for city kids, but for us country folk driving in big cities and on the interstate is hardly ever necessary. Driving on the interstate and in bigger cities is something you have to learn before you leave home. I was super scared of the interstate before this year, now I can drive it just fine. GPS will become your best friend.

4. live it up

I'm not saying go against your parents' wishes on anything, but do things that you would never have done before. Dye your hair, go on a mission trip, run a 5k, skydive, go on a roadtrip, volunteer, take an art class, learn to do something new!!

5. get a part-time job
You are going to have to get a job when you leave home so you might as well learn about the business world now. Learning how to fill out a job application, and how to act in an interview is something you can master now before you head off into the world. Another plus to getting a job your senior year is having a little extra cash to save up for college and spend on outings with your friends.

What are some things you think are important to learn/do your senior year?