Sophomore Year

Walking the cobblestone and brick streets of the Freedom Trail in Downtown Boston gives a real sense of insight into the history and culture of the biggest city in New England. The old, historic architecture weaves into the new, modern buildings and skyscrapers, giving Boston a unique touch not found in many cities. In the residential and collegiate areas near Back Bay, just west of downtown, lies Fenway Park, a refreshing (depending on who you ask) change from the modern-day ballparks popping up across the country.

In the wet row of the right field bleachers, in the heart of home, are remnants of a second home. Rather than the normal activities of watching and constantly paying attention to the game taking place center stage, there is conversation. There is chatter. There is laughter. There is fun had by all there, some for the first time in Fenway, some for the first time at a ballgame, all having fun. Here, the familiar sights and sounds of home merge with the new-found experiences of Knoxville.

This past school year brought more amazing memories, enticing adventures and continual praises to God. A number of changes have taken place between the end of Freshman year and the beginning of this past year, but throughout all the trials, tribulations, ups and downs, God has always been so sustaining and present. Looking back through the albums and albums on Facebook, many memories jump out. Baptism in a swimming pool, hiking in the mountains, more (and more and more) weddings, tennis, long bus rides and a ton more...two years already gone like that. Dang....

All of that leads into the upcoming two months, where the comfortable life of home transforms into life in the woods, in cabins at a summer camp in Branson, Missouri. Kanakuk Kamps (yes, with a K) presents the next challenge and next opportunity. As a staff photographer, the chance of improving the photography is obviously there, but also having a chance to talk with fellow staff and campers from across the country from ages 7-11 is such as gift that is incredibly exciting. This time tomorrow and I will be situated into an air-conditioned cabin in the woods of the Ozarks, across the river from Branson.