Beaming with Pride

My older sister, Melanie, just graduated from the University of Idaho with her Bachelors of Science degree. Since this was such a huge moment for her I wanted to be there to support her and cheer her on when she accepted her diploma. So, with my kids, I drove up to Idaho Falls to watch her on Thursday night. My parents made the trip too.
Her degree is in Psychology. I'm assuming this is because she wanted to take after me. :0) Sure, she got her bachelor's and I'm only getting my associate's degree in a couple of months...but it was my idea first! :0) I told her that she would have to move by me in a couple of years so that we could open up a family counseling practice together. Stumpf and Burnham....or better yet....Burnham and Stumpf. :0) Good stuff.

Even though she is my BIG sister, I felt like a proud mommy watching her walk the stage to get her diploma. She has worked so hard on this and is such a great example for me as I try to get through my classes.

{Have you ever tried to take a picture that has seven children in it at 9:30 at night? Yeah....good luck with getting all eyes on the camera!}

Pomp and Circumstance

My neice, Jordan, graduated from high school last night. It's always such an exciting time for Seniors. I can't believe she's old enough to be out of high school though! I met Jordan when she was 14 and in 8th grade. It's wierd to think of her as "all grown up" now. And honestly, I'm not old enough to have a neice graduating from high school! But, her dad is definitely old enough to have a daughter graduating...so I guess I'm stuck. :0)
Before the ceremony started she told me that she was more nervous than excited. You can see it in her face in a few of these pictures. Because I knew she was nervous, it made me nervous for her as she went up to get her diploma. And honestly...I got a little teary eyed as they moved their tassles over to signify "the end". She was done with high school. She's moving on now to bigger and hopefully better things.
I hope for good things for you, Jordan. We love you so much. I know this can be a hard time. At 18, you're not a kid anymore, but not quite a grown woman yet. Unfortunately, a lot of growing and learning experiences are coming your way that will be hard for you. I remember all too well what it was like. And honestly, I don't envy the kind of decisions you will be making. Just remember that family is forever. We're always here and we always love you. No matter what. Good luck with your future endeavors. We are rooting for you!

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