I'm graduating!

This weekend I got a kick-start on my graduation. I don't walk til Tuesday, but it seemed only right to throw a party before. You know, for many good reasons that don't come to mind right now. Except friends, food and good presents. And the fact that I couldn't wait to burn some papers. I made some good memories last night. Here are the ones that top the list:

1. Seeing my insanely-awesome, incredible mom rock the kitchen. Thanks mom! It wouldn't

have been the same without you! The house wouldn't have been decorated, we would have had no food to eat, and no smiling face from you!

2. I spent the day running around getting things together, so it was nice when I finally got to eat:

3. Definitely one of the greatest moments of all was when we went out to the chiminea and burned all my college papers. Everyone got one, I gave a lil speech (about how good it was to finally be graduating), and then I threw mine in. It was so freeing to see all those hours of work just go up in flames (don't worry, I kept the originals)! After me, people went up and threw theirs in. Definitely a good moment. I think Kiki and Kat had a little too much fun....

4. Presents! That's just always good, I think. Thanks to my friends who gave the plastic bowl; you know me so well...

5. It's been a while since I saw my dad this proud. It felt good. Real good.

6. Friends got to connect, or re-connect, and I was glad so many people came. I really, really look forward to my farewell/bday party! August 2nd (and if I know you, then consider yourself invited).

Much love, and thanks, to all who've been a part of my life up to this point. I can't wait for the next phase of my life. Most of all, thanks to God. It's been an incredible journey so far. I can't wait to actually walk across that stage on Tuesday. Wow. I get giddy just thinking about it.

Thanks to MerariPhotographs for capturing all these great moments!