Gracie Girl Blog

Real life is in full force down in Blacksburg and now that I am on Thanksgiving break and have time to catch my breath – here’s what I’ve been up to:

I took a leap of faith the semester and got a job on campus so that I could pay to lease a horse in Blacksburg. Riding is something I missed so much when I was at school, it felt like there was a void no matter what else I did. So, enter August – a sweet 5 year old Thoroughbred owned and trained by another VT student. I have no idea how long I’ll lease August, but I am already so thankful for the last few months with her. It’s truly been so beneficial for my emotional, physical, and mental health to be able to go out to the barn multiple times a week. I also joined the Eventing Team at VT and while I’m new to Eventing and not competing this semester, I hope to next semester.

A new job and horse along with a world coming out of a pandemic has been A LOT. Four out of my five classes are in person on campus and besides having to wear masks still, life feels back to normal. Even though it can be exhausting to have to get to so many places in a day, I truly believe in person is always better. I get to talk to friends I never ran into last year, make new class friends, and just have more human connection. I really didn’t realize how much we missed last year until this one.

Another joy of this semester has been CONCERTS. VT hosted The Band Camino during Welcome Week so a bunch of us went to that. More recently, my friends and I traveled down to Charlotte, NC to see Maverick City Music in concert which was amazing.

I turned 21! on a Monday! So we went to dinner and took some pics by the Pylons like the good Hokies we are.

Football is back thank goodness. I can’t describe the feeling of the very first time jumping to Enter Sandman in Lane Stadium after a pandemic. Gamedays, which tend to be Saturday, are always busy and tiring but always fun.

A huge blessing this semester has been my Young Life team. YL in the New River Valley has undergone a lot of change this semester, and our team is no different. No matter what, I am thankful for this group of 6 who make me laugh, teach me more about Jesus, and push me closer to Him. God’s hand in putting us together at this specific time is so evident and I am so thankful.

Friends got to visit this semester!

Well, that about sums up what I’ve been up to. It has been a crazy yet good semester. The Lord has taught me a lot about boldness and using my voice. I’m reminded often He is the only capable stronghold, the best friend, the only God worthy of worship. I’m excited for what the Lord is doing on Tech’s campus and in my generation. I’m excited for revival.

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And now, Lord, look upon their threats and grant your servants to continue to speak your word with all boldness, while you stretch out your hand to heal, and signs and wonders are performed through the name of your holy servant Jesus. Acts 4:29-30