{Graduation}

Before graduation, people kept asking, 'are you so excited to be done with school'?
I was pleased, but it really just felt like the end of another semester ...
until I put my cap and gown on and went to my graduation ceremony.

God, did that feel good. I finally had a chance to let it sink in. I'm so glad I walked.

Before hand, there was a part of me that didn't want people to make a fuss about it.

I didn't want anyone to go out of their way to be there, and I didn't see how a party

was necessary. It just felt weird to celebrate it, in part, because I "should have" finished

many years earlier.

But I got over that (with a little encouragement from David) and I'm so glad I did. It was fabulous to have people there who love me and who I love. It felt good to share it with them

and to celebrate my accomplishment.

We took some photos before hand, did the ceremony thing and then

went back to our house for food, conversation, company, and presents!


Pam got this one of me and the girls when we first arrived.
Catherine is giving the day a thumbs up!

These two photos are pretty special to me. This day was earned as much by

David as it was by me. He was a huge support for me through this journey --

emotionally, financially and otherwise. I'm really thankful to him and so glad

he was there! This day wouldn't have been the same without him by my side.

My brother, Aaron, and his entire family (all six of them) flew in from

Ohio just for this day. Pretty awesome. :) It was nice to have family there.

Aaron and me.

Me with Aaron and Pam's beautiful kids -- (from left to right) Lauren, Meghan,

Catherine, and Aidan.

David's parents, Sandy and Jim, traveled in from Michigan.


Our friend, Kim, came for the ceremony, too. (Photo from a holiday party in December.)

I was so glad she did! Her presence added a really nice dynamic that evening. We always

enjoy her company and our family did, too. She went out of her way to make my day

extra special, and I feel very grateful for her friendship. I mean, it's a sweet friend who

gives up their Friday night, after working all week, to sit through a boring commencement. :)

Backstage before the ceremony with some friends from my program.

Afterwards, we had a little party at the house.

D, me, Jim, Sandy, Aaron, Pam, the kids, and my friend, Kim.

I'm telling you, you should totally graduate. You get completely spoiled! :)

Aaron and Pam hand wrapped the bag they gave me in ASU colors. Loved it!

(Aside from my camera, I think it's my new favorite possession.)

David got me a beautiful ASU frame for my diploma.

Kim brought me a lovely necklace and an insanely delicious cake for us to share.

There were flowers, a robe, bath and body stuff, ornaments, and gift cards.

It was all too much! Everyone was so thoughtful and so excited for me.

I was really touched.

Graduation day is going in the memory banks as a good one. :)