“Mobile is home but I live in Hattiesburg. I love downtown Mobile. I came as a teenager and young adult and it is homey and gets better every time I come back. My 13 bridesmaids and I are about to go on a cruise. They are gamily, neighbors, and friends from high school, college, and work. I am getting married in November but we are going now when it is cheaper and we can afford to go. I grew up on Dauphin Island and was always on the boat. I have mermaid hair so the back of my shirt says, ‘Trading the tail for the veil.’

I have 13 junior bridesmaids. I was a nanny for seven years after I moved from Mobile. I still nanny and those kids become my kids. One told me you walk through me through all of my life, I can’t wait to walk with you through your wedding. So none of my girls can be left out. I have raised everyone else’s babies and one day I can’t wait to raise my own.

I am a coordinator for a non-profit that helps girls get into college. I was lucky enough to go to college and get a masters degree and I want to help girls who weren’t given the same opportunity. Moving away from Mobile, my family, and everything I knew and starting over was hard and but shapes me. I created a new life with new friends. I don’t care where this cruise goes. We can just circle Dauphin island and have fun.” (This interview was in January. One day we will go on cruises and be around groups of friends again.)