Until yesterday, I had no idea that children could develop arthritis. At Camp MASH, held at Camp Grace, we met brave young children living and thriving with the crippling disease. My camper, Meredith, who is nine years old, told me that her goal is to write a book for other children living with arthritis about her story and how she has learned to live happily with the condition. She also goes on the radio and televsion to talk about her disease and encourage other children with the same problems. Seeing these young children struggling to do everyday tasks such as brushing their teeth and combing their hair really gave me a new appreciation for life. If these kids can be so happy-go-lucky while taking upwards of ten pills each morning, why can't I have the same attitude when my troubles get me down? Last night we had the oportunity also to get to know the other Junior Misses on a deeper level. We each shared a short story of someone who has inspired us. Knowing the stories that made these incredible girls into who they are today really helped us learn more about each other. Meeting the special children at Camp MASH and bonfire sharing time with the other Junior Misses were part of a day at Camp Grace I will never forget. My other favorite part of the day was the ropes course. It is fifty feet in the air, and composed of treacherous metal ropes and numerous obstacles. Personally, I am an absolute adrenaline junkie, and I was so excited for the course. A young Junior Miss in my group, however, Tori from New Mexico was teriied of heights and was not as excited as the rest of us. Through encouragement and a hand to hold on to, we got Tori across the course safely, well mostly safe besides the new welt and scrape on my knee. It was a small price to pay to see a fellow Junior Miss overcome a fear and complete something she never thought she could have. So far AJM nationals has taught me so much about life, other Junior Misses and even myself. I can't wait to continue growing closer to the other girls here in Mobile.