It was just after my first Dominican Republic team planning meeting, prior to the trip. I was sharing with my one friend about it, listing the students in our church that were going, most of whom I really didn’t know very well. But when I mentioned Emily Bardell, my friend immediately interrupted me, saying, “Emily Bardell. She’s the coolest. You will love Emily Bardell.” Now let me say, the last time I’d actually really talked to this Emily Bardell girl was when we were on a church youth retreat in middle school (amidst nerd years and braces, although I’ll spare you the picture to prove it ;). She was a sweet girl then, but I was anxious to see what she was like now, years later.

Well, my friend was right, Emily Bardell really is the coolest. She’s just REAL. And I like real. And just as sweet, if not SWEETER, than she was in middle school. She loves the Lord and desires to honor Him with her life. She’s confident and authentic, she goes with the flow and is so relatable, genuinely treating everyone she knows like they’re her very favorite person on the planet. Quite honestly I have a hard time imagining anyone NOT liking Emily. She’s such a fun-loving, happy person!

I’m so thankful for this girl and the friend that she’s been to me! Once she graduates, she’s hoping to go on to Pitt, majoring in physical therapy… so awesome! I’m excited for you, Em, and all that’s ahead of you! God’s got an amazing plan for your life! I hope you enjoy a few of my favorites from your senior session! P.S. This post wouldn’t be complete without some laugh credit going to our friend Lisette who came along for the fun! ;)