NATCHEZ — Anthony West is an honor roll student, athlete and bourgeoning singer all wrapped up in the body of an energetic 7 year old.

It’s a lot to balance for his mother, Brittney West, but she barely bats an eye when talking about the time and dedication it takes to raise Anthony as a single mother.

“It’s a challenge, but I don’t think God would put me in a situation that I wouldn’t succeed in,” she said.

When The Dart landed on the Vidalia Riverfront Sunday, it found Brittney and Anthony taking a walk after Anthony’s soccer game.

Brittney says she tries to spend as much time as possible with Anthony, who is a student at West Elementary in Natchez, named for his great-great grandmother Susie B. West.

“I want him to always be able to talk to me,” she said. “I try to do a lot of character building and teach him different things about having a strong character, integrity, being honest, that your word is your bond. I definitely want us to be close.”

Brittney’s father, James T. West, is a male role model in Anthony’s life, she says.

“Saturdays are their days together,” she said. “They do a lot of bonding.”

Anthony has even shown an interest in the family business his grandfather owns, West Gate Funeral Home, Brittney said.

“He’s really big on comforting the families who are grieving,” she said. “He really likes to do that.”

While life as a single parent can be challenging, Brittney says she is supported by her family, and chooses to maintain a positive outlook on life.

“Life throws you challenges, you have to choose to rise to the occasion,” she said. “You have to always know you’re doing your best, and don’t be too hard on yourself. Just do the best you can for your children, and give them the best you have.”