When I was seventeen, my life changed forever . . .

All characters come from people I know, but after the initial inspiration, I tend to modify the characters so they fit with the story.

It's the first line in your book. I always thought there was a lot of truth in that. Or maybe that's what my English teacher said. I can't really remember. I read it last semester." - Your parents must be so proud you can read." - They are. They bought me a pony and everything when I did a book report on Cat in the Hat.

I'm sorry, I guess my company leaves a lot to be desired.

Friends come and go, clothing is packed and unpacked, households are continually purged of unnecessary items, and as a result, not much sticks. it's hard at times but it makes a kid strongs in ways that most people can't understand. Teaches them that even though people are left behind, new ones will inevitably take their place; that every place has something good and bad to offer. It makes a kid grow up fast.

That's what courage is. If she weren't scared, she wouldn't need courage in the first place." -Jo

Youth offers the promise of happiness, but life offers the realities of grief.