Graduation Day at Utah State University

I was thrilled that we were able to go out to Utah for Mark's graduation. With a wedding right around the corner, a broken footed daughter at home, a budget that seems to be getting tighter each month, not to mention other various commitments I wasn't sure we were going to be able to make it, but I wanted to be there so much.

There was a point in our history when we weren't even sure Mark would make it to college. He struggled mightily in school for more than a few years and as the mother in this story...I struggled right along with him.

From second or third grade on there were plenty of parent / teacher meetings, IEP meetings, reminders, double-checking homework, nagging, groundings, even tears and prayers. Sometime, around age 17, something just seemed to click and Mark got it. He was doing his school work and homework independently, holding down a job, participating in really fun extra-curricular school choirs and having a positive and fun social life.

Now look at him!

All grown up and graduated cum laude from Utah State University.

It was a rainy, rainy day in Logan. But we were so proud to be able to stand along the walkway to the Spectrum cheering as the graduating class of 2009 paraded by.

Mark graduated from the College of Engineering with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Aviation Science / Professional Pilot. (I hope that's correct - if not I will be back to edit this part)

What's next for our son and his beautiful wife?

We aren't sure yet,

but as parents we are certainly supportive

and PROUD!

It was fun to share the day with family and friends.

The Grandparent's were there to show their support and love too.

Emily planned and put together a celebration barbeque. It was supposed to be at the park behind Grandma and Granddad Hendricks' home. Due to the POURING RAIN Grandma generously opened her home to the festivities.

Emily also made a fantastic cake for Mark's celebration party. She taught herself how to roll and color and use fondant.

The cake was stunning! The party was a huge success!

Wow Emily! You Rock!

Rob spent the first half of the party outside grilling brats and burgers in the pouring rain. Cody Scheffer (Mark's cousin-in-law) grilled for the second half.
Emily and Kristin did a great job organizing and arranging the food.
The circle of life continues. What a Beautiful Blessing.

I can't think of a better way to spend a weekend than to be surrounded by

Family and Friends.