I Did It!

After 16 years of being a college student, I am a college student no more. I broke down and decided to go to graduation. Well, actually, I attended the commencement (is that the first one? I can't remember which one is commencement or convocation) by Internet. Since I finished as a primarily Independent Study student, that seemed appropriate.

Today I did go to commencement for my college. I didn't think anyone would be able to make it because we had logistics issues. Most of my family was in Yellowstone, and poor Peter had 7 kids, a spitty uppy baby, and his mother to deal with. So he left Ursula home tucked in bed, took the baby and Megan, and left Sara with the others. It was awesome that they were able to make it.

Funny thing is, my mom made it too. Her favorite song was "Come Thou Fount of Every Blessing". It's a rather obscure song and isn't performed that often. I absolutely love the song, and it was performed today at the graduation. I just knew she was there. Her other sign that she is with me is a pink carnation. When I had Mandy and I was in the hospital on Mother's Day, some people brought around flowers for us. I got a pink carnation, and I just knew it was from her. Another Mother's Day I had just had a horrible day, and Henriette's mom gave me a pink carnation. I again knew that she was watching out for me. Anyway, I digress.

The ceremonies were short, there weren't too many people there, the talks were great. It was just perfect. Here are some pictures:

But the best part is: no more tests, papers, research reports, trying to guess what the professor wanted you to get out of class, and worrying about grades. I am done with formal education for the rest of my life. YEA!