While the Wahkiakum High School Class of 2021 was working on senior projects, I spent the last five months working on my own.

When this started, I was given a list of 59 seniors. As the months passed, I learned that some students had moved away, and some would not agree to an interview. I confess I was saddened by that, because I wanted to meet them all and celebrate the things that make each of them unique and interesting people.

Also, I was having fun. All of them taught me something. Some of them hit me right in the heart space. I laughed a lot. Mostly, I’m glad I can smile at them and say hello when I see them now, and cheer them on as they tackle new adventures.

What a blessing.

In the end, I interviewed 52 seniors at WHS and one who was home schooled.

I made a few mistakes along the way, and because this was a gift from all of us at The Eagle to the Class of 2021, that hurt a bit. We would have liked to give a gift most perfect.

If I’ve missed anyone, or if there is a senior who was unwilling to speak to me before but would like to talk to me now, I’m here. I would love to meet you.

I would like to thank the Mule boosters for supporting this project, as well as the staff at Wahkiakum High School who helped me, including Principal Stephanie Leitz and especially Haanah Ohrberg.

To the Class of 2021, thank you for talking to me. I wish you the best of luck and all the good things that life has to offer.