And the winner is... CLARA HUFF!

This past Friday evening, my darling daughter received the prestigious "Move Maker 2012" award from Teens With a Purpose at the youth organization's 15th Gala Awards program held at The Westin Hotel in Virginia Beach, VA. Teens from the Hampton Roads area could either nominate themselves or someone could submit an application on their behalf indicating how they have persevered and risen about the odds over the course of the year and in the process grown and evolved in one of six areas. Celebrated New York journalist Al Roker of NBC's Today Show was on hand to deliver the keynote speech and bask in delight with my aspiring actress as well as the other teen member of TWP who was honored. Clara walked away from the gala awards program with a gorgeous (and heavy!) award, an even higher self-esteem, connections (including a teen who started an organization to collect blankets for the homeless) and another worthy program to join. I want to thank everyone who helped to make the even possible for my AWARD-WINING daughter including my sorority sister LaJuan Hines-Rome (who encouraged me to submit Clara for the award), Genevieve Cromwell (who designed Clara's Asian-inspired dress), Tammy from Smarstyle Salon inside of Walmart on Battlefield Blvd in Chesapeake, VA (who worked Clara's 'do), Hines Transportation (who provided car service to and from the event) and of course Deirdre Love (founder of TWP). More photos will follow in the days to come of Clara with Al Roker, 2012 Olympiad Gold Medalist Francena McCorory and her dear mommy (ME!). Congrats Clara! I love you! There is NO limit to what you can accomplish if you set your mind to doing it and put GOD first.