Isn’t this backpack in great shape?? Why do my kids need a new one at least every year and sometimes twice a year?  I must write an ode to my backpack because I bought a new more adult like computer bag for life as a graduate..haha…and I am taking a photo, putting it on my blog, writing a poem and then giving it away – to hopefully another happy student.

For five years long I hauled to the U

purchased with eager high hopes, it is true

In Hawaii, no less on an off beaten path

With no clue of the woefully pain of the math

But I am sure of the strength ….my brain grew!

I owe to this backpack consistent support

It sat quietly there while I learned to retort

Held computer, my notepads, pens and THE books

And didn’t agree if students gave me ‘mom looks’

Much thanks flowered backpack for seeing me through!

To complete my Bachelors Degree from the U.

05/04/17

B and the kids (mostly Lelu) pulled off a surprise party the night before my graduation so I was not expecting it, until we drove up the street and I recognized a lot of cars up and down the street.  I must admit I was completely overwhelmed by the sight of so many friends and family coming over to congratulate and help me celebrate.  I about burst into tears, quickly composed myself and then came out to see everyone.  The cake didn’t taste nearly as good as it looks….how could it?

(Since I try to live on mostly-honesty-planet – I really didn’t deserve this party – I was complaining and griping the whole way home after B treated me to a spa day, complete with the kids chauffeuring me to get my hair done, a facial and a massage – with Lelu tipping me off a little bit by telling me I needed to wear something cuter than sweats and bring my make-up bag because we were going out to dinner – I was yammering on about graduating from college being just like having a baby: when it happens to you, it’s a big big deal to grow another human being (or two) in your body but most people just think “why are you making such a big deal out of this – it’s not like it’s never been done before? In fact, it’s been done to death”.. And you think yeah but It is a big deal to me, especially at this age.  Having a baby at this age in an old body I imagine is just like finishing college at this age with an older brain – and waaaay more responsibilities – making it much harder than when I should have been graduating).

But my family and friends did make it a big deal – and I am overwhelmingly grateful.

I finally got to meet Cherie’s darling little granddaughter Ruby! That’s how bad of a friend I’ve been this last year in order to finish up. And this was my graduation gift from B.  Such an perfectly thoughtful and generous gift!  I just need to decide where it’s worthy to be displayed and NOT touched..

Beautiful flowers from Maddie, who couldn’t be there.From B and the kids

And from Michelle and Maruan, who are overseas.

I wish I had more photos from the party, but I think everyone was having so much fun that no one thought to take any.

05/05/17

The Big Day

I did my best to absorb every moment.  I loved the speaker – Tracy Mullens (who was a writer on Mad Men-which I’m binge watching now, and a guest on Super Soul Sunday-that I’d seen).  This was my row!   Pre-walk selfieThe walkThe bored so amusing themselves family My amazing supportLunch at Cheesecake Factory.  It was an incredibly beautiful and perfect day.