The past week has been surreal. I’m sure you heard about the plane crash in Buffalo, New York, on February 12th. Well, that plane crash happened about a mile from my house. I heard the sirens that night and smelled the burning fuel. Thankfully I don’t know anyone personally affected by the crash, but in my small community, everyone knows somebody who was. My dance teacher and a couple of friends were flying home from a competition in Ireland that day and were scheduled to be on that plane. Fortunately, their international flight landed early and they were able to change flights, so they arrived home earlier. I can’t believe all the strange occurrences. School was cancelled the next day so people could try to start the healing and cleanup process. The fire was contained that night, but all the rubble and destruction are still here. Roads are still blocked off.

I am extremely impressed by the community’s response so far. The emergency workers did a great job and there are already several efforts to rebuild the home destroyed by the plane crash and to raise money for the families affected. Our student council is currently brainstorming ideas for a fundraiser. In the community, there is also a huge effort to get the family who lost their home selected for Extreme Makeover Home Edition. Everyone has really come together. Please keep the victims and families affected by the tragedy of Flight 3407 in your thoughts and prayers in this time of need and sadness.

On a much lighter note, the sleep-out and my first mock trial competition were very successful. The sleep-out was on a relatively warm night for a western NY winter. It was still very cold, but my friends and I built a shelter out of cardboard boxes and were able to keep each other warm and get some sleep. However, I think I caught a cold by sleeping outside because I’ve been sick for the past week. Now seems to be the time when flu and colds are being passed around the school. So stay safe and healthy! Wash your hands and get your rest.

We won our first mock trial competition. Our team worked very well together, and it was exciting to give the closing arguments. Next up, we are performing as plaintiffs; I was assigned a lawyer role on that side too. That means I have a few more examinations to write, memorize, and practice.

Right now, our school has a week off for midwinter break. It is much needed to recover from midterms, my cold, and to rest up before the last months of school. Our school’s second homecoming is coming up in March and we have chosen a circus theme.

I am finished applying to colleges and am waiting for acceptances now. Also, there are a few scholarships that I am still applying for. It is really just a waiting period since most colleges I applied to send out notifications in April. So far, I’ve been accepted at two colleges, but I want to see where else I get in and the financial packages for each school.

Stay tuned for special events.