I know, i know, we're a little excited about these new bedding collections.
I admit, i may have tweeted, facebooked, and pinned a bit much in the past couple days – sorry if you've been bombarded by the same info from multiple places – and now here, too. So it goes these days!
We even sent out a newsletter earlier in the week. If you received it, you already know that we are giving away one of the colorful bedding collections
in a size of your choice!
We've gotten so many wonderful stories in return that we decided to open it up to all our blog friends as well – especially any of you who are graduating or celebrating along with your soon-to-be graduate. It's such an exciting time and reminds me of all the hope-filled, optimistic messages that are shared with young people as they stretch their wings and soar off in pursuit of their own happiness. These kinds of thoughts are ones to keep close throughout our lives as a reminder that we all possess the potential to become what we dream.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
"Do not follow where the path may lead.
Go, instead, where there is no path and leave a trail."
~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
"Twenty years from now you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the ones you did. So throw off the bowlines, sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover."
~ Mark Twain
"Go confidently in the direction of your dreams.
Live the life you have imagined."
~ Henry David Thoreau
So...to enter the giveaway, if you haven't already, please leave a comment telling us a brief story about a current or upcoming graduate you're proud of (maybe it's you!) or about a past graduation that meant a lot to you. The winner will be announced the week of May 19th.
Remembering my own graduations, makes me remember all the teachers and people who got me there, especially my family. Thank you Mom and Dad! Looking forward to seeing my Mom (and Dad too) this weekend to tell her how much i love her. Happy Mother's Day to all you Moms out there!
Have a beautiful weekend.
xo,
Kate
I was only a teacher for a short 5 years before we moved. My second year of teaching was by far the best. Hands down. The most spirited group and the ones who could lean on each other the most. This group of former 8th graders graduates this year, and I am unable to attend. They will be the ones I remember when I'm 90, and the ones I will tell stories about to my grandkids! Being a teacher is hard, but the memories you have last a last time!
ReplyDeleteNice inspiring story ... what's your name?
DeleteMy sister. She is amazing. Currently she's in Afghanistan doing a tour for the army and I still remember watching her high school graduation. My little sister is my hero and someone I admire greatly. Every accomplishment she has had started the day she walked across that stage in cap and gown.
ReplyDeleteWow, Tyler! Thanks for sharing. Special thanks to your sister for her service in Afghanistan.
DeleteI am a retired Grade one teacher and at this time year I always think about the graduation class of amazing kids who I taught ELEVEN years ago!! I'm sure they are like me and haven't changed a bit...:o))
ReplyDeleteP
That's neat, Paulette. And I remember my first grade teacher so well! She was great and I loved her.
DeleteMy niece is graduating in a couple days! We are all very excited for her and wish we could be there. Unfortunately we are unable to attend since we live so far away and our kids will still be in school, but we are anxious to see her when she comes to visit in a couple weeks!
ReplyDeleteGreat! Congratulations to your niece, her parents, and to you all, Diane.
DeleteAwe...I don't specifically have any upcoming graduations...my children still have a few years to go. I can't believe my own graduation was 18 years ago. Time flies! I do appreciate graduations as a time when we can celebrate the accomplishments of those who have worked very hard. Whether it's kindergarten, 8th grade, 12th grade, or college...they are all special in their own right.
ReplyDeleteWell said! Thanks for your thoughts. Best to you and your family.
DeleteMy son will be graduating from Kindergarten ;) I hope he enjoys school more in the coming years, I keep telling him he should enjoy it now because it is so easy.
ReplyDeleteExciting, Mara! Enjoy the festivities.
DeleteMy middle son graduated from uni last summer and my youngest son will graduate next summer!!
ReplyDeleteWow, Gill! They attend the same school ... or different schools?
DeleteI'm a first year preschool teacher, and of course a bunch of the kids are graduating into Kindergarten at the end of this year. I'm so proud to see how much they've learned and gained confidence over the short amount of time we've had together, and part of me wishes I could come along with them in this next stage to continue to see them grow. I feel confident though that they are ready! It's an awesome thing to see graduation from the other side--as a teacher this time. :)
ReplyDeleteJenelle, way to go! Love your enthusiasm ... and I'm sure children do too.
DeleteMy co-worker recently graduated from college with her bachelor's degree after going to school on and off for 20 years! She has been raising her daughter as a single mom for 17 years and I am so proud of her for finally reaching her dream!
ReplyDeleteKristin -- that takes a lot of scrappiness to do all that and get that degree. Thanks for sharing. Congrats to your colleague.
DeleteMy best friend graduated from nursing school last summer. She is a single mom, was working full time and going to school full time in the summer before she graduated. She is amazing! I made her a quilt to celebrate. :)
ReplyDeleteMary, that's inspiring ... and how generous of you! Thanks for sharing.
DeleteMy friend and co-worker just defended her PhD thesis. She started off volunteering in the lab and then was accepted into the graduate program. It took her a long 7 years, but she had second child during the process. Having small children and working grueling graduate student hours is not easy! I'm so proud of her for finishing. She will continue on with our lab to finish up and I'm glad I get to spend some more time with her before she moves on.
ReplyDeleteAllison, another inspiring tale of a person earning her degree while holding it all together. Truly impressive! My thanks to you for sharing, and to your friend for her example.
DeleteI remember when I graduated school in Brazil and dressed like a hippie... Mid 90'ies...
ReplyDeleteAnd i do remember the day when my professor shaked my hands telling me I passed my PhD disputation! A stone felt from my heart!
Dr. Pontos it is! I love someone who can earn a big degree and ... on the day of the big graduation ... goes for the whimsical attire! Kudos!
DeleteOur granddaughter Casey lives in Kansas City but has spent her college years in SoCal at USC, just down the road from us. She and her Poppy have had a goal of having each one of the sushi rolls (over 50) at a local Japanese restaurant. Just last week they finished, the original menu all full of drips and drabs, the stars for their favorites etc. they took photos with the sushi chef and added an extra big tip for their last trip. Such a fun memory for us as Casey graduates and heads off to PA school in Chicago. we are so proud of her and will miss her calls, "Poppy, any plans for dinner.?"
ReplyDeleteThat story really puts a smile on my face. Thanks for sharing it here. Congrats and all the best to your granddaughter Casey as she graduates and heads out to Chicago for the PA program.
DeleteI haven't been to a lot of graduations. I will say that I barely finished nursing school and when I finally finished and walked it was such a relief; almost more of a relief than a celebration! (7 years later, I'm still a nurse and loving it!)
ReplyDeletejhunsberger (at) gmail (dot) com
Nurses rock, Jess! And thank goodness for the great work you did in school and the training you've undergone ... the people you help are so fortunate. Congrats.
DeleteMy granddaughter just graduated and is looking forward to a job as a cardiac rehab instructor. She has always been a hard worker, and hard work pays off.
ReplyDeleteI agree, Kathryn. Your granddaugher's doing important work. Congrats to her! Best of luck!
DeleteMy little love will graduate from preschool this year. Off to big school next year - gulp!
ReplyDeletePeaches, enjoy this special time with your little love. Congratulations!
DeleteMy youngest son is graduating from high school next weekend. He competed for, and won, a full tuition scholarship to the college his dad attended. I'm so very proud of his hard work and diligence!
ReplyDeleteMy goodness, Teresa! Your son must be especially accomplished ... and at this young age. Congrats to him and his parents ... and all the people who taught him so well.
DeleteWhen my children graduated (quite a while ago now), I was the most proud of them. Graduation is bitter sweet though - they are preparing to leave the nest. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteBut you've trained them to fly ... so don't worry! Thanks for your entry.
DeleteHi Kate, I have to say that your fabrics always give me goosebumps when I see them. I hope this isn't too long. My daughter is getting her MBA next weekend from Georgetown University. I'm so very proud of her. She has come so far. A few years ago she was hurt very badly when a young man she was dating broke up with her and got engaged to HER BOSS! This was completely unexpected and a devastating blow to her self-confidence. A few months later her company decided to move her department out of state. She had the option of relocating with them or taking a package. She decided to take the package and go back to school. She was accepted at Rice University with a full scholarship but decided on GU. She has since met a wonderful man and will be moving to Spain with him in June.
ReplyDeleteThanks for this opportunity.
Gail :)
Gail, this is extraordinary! Your daughter prevailed over substantial adversity. Her arc of triumph gives me goosebumps. So we're even! :) Celebrate and enjoy. Thanks for your kind words, too.
DeleteI am SO happy. Tomorrow is my graduation! I have spent four years earning a Bachelor of Business Administration @ Penn State. *does a happy dance*
ReplyDeleteHappy Valley is a beautiful place ... and great community. Congratulations, Emily. Dance dance dance!
DeleteBeautiful bedding collections! My baby just graduated from college on the 3rd of May (with HONORS!). I am so excited for him and what his future holds, he has a passion and talent behind the movie camera, so we shall see! I am so very very proud of him.
ReplyDeleteCJ, this is great news! I wish your son all the best in his creative and professional endeavors. My dad has worked on documentary films since the 60s ... and had some fascinating experiences ... including filming Jimi Hendrix lighting his guitar on fire in the documentary "Monterey Pop" by the great D. A. Pennebaker and an amazing team.
DeleteI'm very proud of my niece, who is graduating next weekend with her masters in mathematics. She'll be moving on to Canada for her doctoral work. So glad I taught her how to quilt already - she'll need them! But the best graduation I remember was when my daughter and my husband both graduated in the same weekend - she from high school and he with his doctorate! It was a busy time but so exciting!!
ReplyDeleteSarah, my gosh, is there any room left on the wall with all those degrees in your family. Congratulations. A masters and now on to a PhD in mathematics. Serious smarts there! Being that she's related to you, I'm not surprised. :)
DeleteI am very proud of my hubby who decided to follow the call to seminary after years in the engineering world. To this day he says his graduation day was one of the proudest in his life and I totally agree!
ReplyDeleteTexas Quilting Gal, thanks for sharing this story. I bet your husband's engineering background still helps him guide his flock and help people with complex situations. Great stuff. Best to you and your family.
DeleteBeautiful collections!! Our DD graduated from college and what a precious day it was! She worked hard and stumbled a few times along the way, but to see her accomplish her goal was so beautiful. :-)
ReplyDeleteSandie, you likely were a big part of DD's getting to the finish line. Good for you all. Best to you, DD, and your family. Thanks for your kind words.
DeleteMy oldest daughter is having her first "graduation" this June as she "graduates" from 3rd grade and moves to a new school. She's pretty excited about it, and it's interesting how shaky I feel about her switching schools -- if it's like this for 3rd grade, what will it be like for (gulp) highschool? :) Thanks for the giveaway! sarah@forrussia.org
ReplyDeleteGood luck in this next phase of your daughter's education. My gosh, from 3rd grade to high school ... it was like a rocket launch of learning and new activities and friends ... and challenges. Best to you and your family, Sarah.
DeleteMy daughter has a best friend who has CP and is graduating from high school. we are all very proud of her.
ReplyDeletePatty, that's one amazing story! Thanks for sharing it. Please send our best wishes to the graduate. Best to you and your family.
DeleteMy oldest is graduating kindergarten next month. He's in a dual immersion program and has come so far in both languages! I'm a very proud mama! Thank you for the giveaway! Such beautiful bedding!
ReplyDeleteKaren, congratulations to you and your son on this feat. Best of luck to you and your family. Thanks for your kind words.
DeleteWe were so proud when our girls graduated high school and even more so when they became college graduates.
ReplyDeleteThat's great, Vicki. Where did the girls attend college? Thanks for writing.
DeleteMy daughter is graduating from college in June. I honestly never thought she'd get to this point. I hoped she would, of course. She battled anorexia/bulimia, depression and suicidal thoughts, and I think it if wasn't for some extensive counseling, owning and taking care of her sheep, goats, and alpacas, she wouldn't be with us. I'm so proud of her. She's now healthy and happy and I'd love to surprise her with some pretty new bedding! Thank you for the lovely giveaway. :)
ReplyDeleteJane, I'm speechless. I can't imagine the tough times you and your daughter got through. I'm so glad you both did. Congratulations. Inspiring ... and part of what makes graduation time a time to give thanks. Best to you and your family.
DeleteI graduated in 1984. I was the only one to graduate out of my whole family. My mom was so proud of my accomplishment. She told everyone she met. Lolol
ReplyDeleteI had 4 other siblings that just gave up. They chose other roads to travel. I continued my education and graduated from my local Tech School. Now that really made my mom proud! Lolol thanks for letting me comment. I hope all Mothers have a great Mothers Day weekend!!
Penny, wow, sounds like you really defied the odds ... and made your family proud. Good for you. I hope you had a great weekend, too. Best to you and your family.
DeleteThe year I graduated from High School the superintendent of schools was handing out the diplomas. This will always be special to me because the superintendent happened to be my dad and it was the last graduation ceremony he participated in before he retired.
ReplyDeleteThat's a nice recollection to always have, Jo. Love it! Thanks for sharing it. Being a superintendent is no easy job. Best to you and your family.
DeleteWhen I graduated from Brigham Young University, it was my grandfather's birthday. I was also his first grandchild to graduate with a bachelor's degree....and from the same university that he graduated from! That made him,you'd son my dad, and me, all graduates of BYU. After the ceremony, my parents and I and my grandparents all went back to my grandparent's house and talked and took more pictures. I love looking at the picture of the three of us as three generations of graduates and felt proud.
ReplyDeleteRachell, that's beautiful. Thanks for sharing your family pride -- so well deserved! Go Cougars! Best to you, your dad, grandfather, and family.
DeleteI work with small children and love to see them "graduate" from preschool to kindergarten. A lot of changes happen in a short time.
ReplyDeleteLaura, that's so true. Your "love" I bet makes all the difference in nurturing and educating the children at such a critical time. Thanks for your comment. Best to you!
DeleteMy daughter is finishing up her undergraduate studies and moving onto Pharmacy School. It has been encouraging to see her work hard and accomplish her goals. I am very proud of her!
ReplyDeleteDebbie, so impressive! I wish your daughter much success and happiness in pharmacy school. Best to you and your family.
DeleteAll of my 4 children's graduations were very special. However, my daughter graduated with a BS ii 3 years, and then her Masters graduation (after only 2 years) took place as I began chemo for the second time. I think my health situation made me more appreciative of the opportunity to experience her accomplishment with her.
ReplyDeleteHelen! Your triumphant story reminds me of Dr. Guarneri's great book "The Heart Speaks." ... Gratitude is a powerful healing force. All the best to you and your family.
DeleteWe have two grand girls that get their high school diploma this month
ReplyDeleteHooray for those girls, Barbara. Are they graduating from the same high school? Best to you and your family.
DeleteI am really proud of the hard work my husband has put himself through too get his masters. It wasn't just one class at a time to get it. He went full time. He also worked full time. When he graduated he had a GPA of 3.8. He is an amazing man.
ReplyDeleteWow, Shar, that is AMAZING!! I'm sure he tells you this: He couldn't have done it without you. Congratulations to you all! Best to you and your family.
DeleteWe have 2 graduates this year. My second oldest son will graduate from UCSB in Economics. He will be pursuing his CPA and has a job lined up to start in October. He transferred from Junior College and completed his degree in 2 years at UCSB. He has done very well there and we are very proud of him. My third oldest son will graduate from Junior College and be going to San Jose State in the fall to pursue Computer Engineering. He has worked hard as well and is looking forward to his time at SJSU. Your new bedding is beautiful! Thanks for the opportunity to win some! K-
ReplyDeleteKristy, what an accomplished couple of young guys! Congratulations to you and to them at this happy time. Thanks for your kind words on the bedding. Best to you all.
DeleteMy oldest daughter's college graduation was very special to us - a huge event for our family that we will never forget.
ReplyDeleteThanks for sharing this memory, Pamela. How long ago and where was your daughter's graduation? Fun and proud memories, I bet. All the best.
DeleteMy daughter graduated from High School last year with honors and is now going to the University of California. It was special to her (and us) because this was a new high school and she was in the first graduating class! She had a very difficult time the first half of her life while she was living with her Dad. She rose above all the adversity, whereas so many young women don't when they have gone through what she has. She is now studying to be a child psychologist. I think she will make a great one because she will have first hand understanding of what many of her patients are going through.
ReplyDeleteDigicats {at} Sbcglobal {dot} Net
Carolsue, this is a very positive story which I appreciate you sharing. Best to you and your daughter. Congrats on her academic achievements and pursuits.
DeleteMy mom went back to school after having 7 children. She got her undergrad and then later, her masters. When she got her undergrad though, we all went to the big auditorium and watched her walk, in her cap and gown. It was a proud moment.
ReplyDeleteCharlotte! I love it. Wow wow wow. Your mom rocks. Thanks for sharing. Best to you all.
DeleteI am very proud of my husband. He worked full time and completed his master while he served his country in the military.
ReplyDeleteLisa, thank you and thank your husband for his service. Impressive accomplishments! All the best.
DeleteVery proud when my nephew graduated. He struggled in high school and then went on to a motorcycle tech school which he did well at and now has a wonderful job. Thanks
ReplyDeleteGood for your nephew, Julie. I'm glad to know this. All the best to you and your family.
DeleteI have a young lady graduating this year that I'm very proud of - I took care of her and her sister for 5 years before they started school. They are still very dear to me and think of me as their grandmother.
ReplyDeleteThat's a special connection, Goecker. Glad you were there to help them on their way to graduating ... and what will come in the future. Best to you and to the girls.
DeleteMy husband has quite poor health but he managed to complete a part time course to start a new career at his own pace. He's achieved a lot recently. He's awesome for that!
ReplyDeleteOvercoming poor health like this and accomplishing this, despite that, is inspiring. Thanks for sharing this, Mokki. Best to you and your husband.
DeleteI went back to college at 25 after getting married. Not only did I graduate, but I absolutely loved it! Education is a divine thing : )
ReplyDeleteLeAnn, it is! Good for you! Thanks for sharing. Best to you and your family.
DeleteMy oldest son was to graduate from high school in 2006 but he was killed in a vehicle accident in his sophomore year. His classmates dedicated the 2006 graduation ceremony to him. They marked his spot with an empty chair and graduation cap and gown, sang the class song to him, and each wore a ribbon in his memory. Although it was painful for my family and me, it was also inspiring that such a group of young people cared so much for my son. In 2009 my daughter graduated with three of her first cousins. I(we) were so proud to see her walk the line to receive that coveted diploma. Now, my last child will graduate next year. I know how proud we will be of him ,too.
ReplyDeleteSherry, my sympathies to you and your family on the enormous loss. I am so amazed that you and your family, including your children, carried on through this so ... The graduation in 2008 ... what a moving and amazing testament to your son! Shine on! Best to you and your family.
DeleteAll my graduations were special. My Bacherlor of Music was the most special because it was the one for which I worked the longest and hardest. It took me ten years of going to school, stopping to earn more money, then continuing so I could graduate debt free.
ReplyDeleteSusan, that's determination and discipline. What is your instrument? My sister-in-law majored in music (flute and voice). A really demanding curriculum to say the least. All the best.
DeleteI was fortunate enough the other night to help select a Bursary winner from my ladies group.I was very proud to read the essays and see the marks of some young men and ladies who are very excited to carry on with their education and have such excitement for their future.
ReplyDeleteSandy, that's terrific to be so involved in the awarding of educational opportunities and support to the future generation(s)! Bravo. Thanks for sharing. Best to you.
Deletemy daughter encouraged [badgered] me into getting my high school diploma when she was in third grade. which i did. when she graduated high school and was going to the local community college for some of her general credits, she once again encouraged ]badgered again] me to get an associates degree. i finally gave in and i had the time of my life. we were both voracious readers and loved to learn something new. we went to college together, had a few classes together and studied together. we bonded so much more closely that i ever though possible. it was a wonderful night when we both graduated together. i got a degree in business and she went to college to study to be an attorney. she did so well in her classes, but deided to take a couple of years off before finising. she moved several hours away and had a state job. but i had a very serious health issue and she quit her job and moved in with me to take care of me. Tragically, just four days after she moved in, she died in my arms from a blood clot to her lungs. i am still so devasted losing her. she was not only my daughter but my best friend. mothers day, graduation time and june when she died] are so very depressing and difficult to get through. it is like a triple whammy. i remember the first time i held her. with tears streaming down my face the day she was born and as i write this, i promised her to always protect her. i feel like i failed miserably. it is with bitter sweet memories i have of our gradition together and our life together babscorbitt@gmail.com
ReplyDeleteBarb,
DeleteIt's good to hear from you again. Your story is a terribly sad one. I hope the memories this graduation season will be more of the light and less of the dark parts. Best to you.
Thanks for the Mother's Day Wishes!
ReplyDeleteMy upcoming graduate is my first grandchild & her name is Julia. She'll be graduating High School. She is an interesting person, quite unique with a fabulous sense of humor and unbelievably sweet- did I mention smart? Ever since she was a little girl, she told me that she was going to Georgia Tech (probably b/c her dad graduated GT & she admires her dad which influenced her)That was when she was 9. I'm not sure if her plans have changed, so we'll see.
GT is a great school. I wish her all the best. Thanks for sharing.
DeleteA very good friend of mine is graduating from college today. She is 40 years old. I am so proud of her. We met while I was in college, and I helped her move into my house. Everything she owned, including her cat, fit into my car. I think she still travels light, but tomorrow she will have one more item in her collection - a quilt made by me with fabrics that remind me of her.
ReplyDeleteThat's great, Karen. What a good path you two have experience together. A quilt made by you with fabrics that remind you of her ... what a kind generous gift! Best to you!
DeleteI remember my own graduation 35 yrs ago. I was SO ready to go out and attack the world!, I left my parents home with $300 in my pocket and a blow up mattress. I got a job and never looked back.
ReplyDeleteAnne, that's quite a courageous start to a 35-year run! Hope you're doing great. Thanks for sharing. Best to you!
DeleteMy most recent memory of graduation was my own, from nursing school in 2009 - at age 45! After deciding that retail wasn't the career path I wanted, with the encouragement of my wonderful husband I went back to school. I'm so glad I did!
ReplyDeleteJacklynn, congratulations on 5 years in nursing! Thanks for sharing this. All the best to you and your family.
DeleteI am proud of my College Graduation since I did it all on my own working night as a waitress in a diner but I am most proud of my children's college graduation. I know they can always support themselves and their families. They are doing that now. They may change careers later in life but they know they can do anything with hard work and time.
ReplyDeleteNice going, GranChris. I like your pluck and confidence ... which probably helped you do what you needed to do to work those long nights while earning your degree ... and then making sure that your children did too. All the best.
DeleteHi Kate, My graduation (2012), in Arts Honours came at the ripe old age of 61. As a single mum I had to retrain to re-enter the workforce, look after two children and give them the option of a good University education. Then it was my turn. It is one of the most rewarding things I've ever done and was the fulfilment of my dreams as a young girl. You can do anything if you have the determination no matter what age you are. Knowledge is no load to carry, it opens up new horizons and you see the world through different eyes. Sandra P
ReplyDeleteSandra! Great thoughts so well stated. Thanks for sharing your priceless experiences here. So glad you got to take your turn at it. Best to you and your family.
DeleteI am proud of my two sons who worked and persevered to get through medical school and business school and pass the CPA exam. They are such focused hard workers and lovely people and make this mom very proud of who they are. thank you!
ReplyDeleteThank you, Lee. Those are serious, important tracks. Those sons must give a lot of the credit to their mom ... for having the love and support to achieve all that and to succeed in those demanding professions today. All the best to you and your family.
DeleteMy husband graduates with his Master's degree this week. In the past two years we had our third baby, traversed the country several times (with all three kids in tow) and lived in a 485 square foot apartment so that we could afford for him to go to school. While in school he also ran a business on the side, but through it all he was a stellar husband and father first. Couldn't be prouder! christina112358 at gmail dot com
ReplyDeleteUnbelievable, Christina. My goodness ... you, your husband, and your family have special powers, no doubt! Enjoy the special achievement and keep on building. All the best to you and your family.
DeleteI imagine my son will be graduating from college in a couple years. It will be a difficult day to "let go" as a mom. He amazes me with his natural musical talent and ambition, and his future is something I can't wait to witness! Now if I could just get him to clean his room! My twin daughters will finish high school in few years, and that will change my life as well. What can I say, I'll miss them, but know that I support them as they follow their passions in dance and drama.
ReplyDeleteSounds like you have creative children, Yvette. What fun and pride you must have in their growth and joy in the performing arts. Way to go! All the best to you and your family.
DeleteI am proud of my sister-in-law that is graduating with her Masters! She is so amazing and does a wonderful job teaching her students and was willing to take it a step further and get her Masters so she could meet their needs better and make wiser teaching decisions! She is an awesome woman and I can't wait to see her graduate with such accomplishments!!
ReplyDeleteCongratulations to your sister-in-law, Laura. I admire you for taking a moment to applaud and celebrate her achievement. Terrific! All the best to you and your family, including the masters graduate!
DeleteMy step son is graduating from high school in a few weeks. He's a great student and I'm glad he got into the college he wanted. I can't believe how fast the time has gone.
ReplyDeleteTeressa! Congratulations to you and your son. Where's he headed?
DeleteNot having kids of my own I take a lot of interests in the goings on of my nieces and nephews. My niece just graduated from University of Florida and gave the sole commencement speech for the College of Agricultural and Life Sciences. She is going to be an Entomologist and focus on urban pest management. Crazy. She is currently in Greece working on research in her field.
ReplyDeleteYour nieces and nephews are lucky to have your special interest in their goings on, Molly Dee. Good for you. Your niece must have impressed her classmates and professors in that prestigious program to be the featured speaker at commencement. Congratulations. Best wishes to you and your family.
DeleteThis past December my husband graduated with his Masters. It was a long, difficult road juggling work, travel, kids, me, and our family. After months of studying classes, and lots of homework he was done. I think the fact that he was working on it via e-mails, video chats/lessons etc made it more difficult. Some of his classmates were abroad as well as he graduated from DOD/military college. Trying to figure a time when everyone might be awake was a challenge. :) When it came time for him to get his diploma we were on able to travel. Our dog had to have major surgery and that ate up our travel funds. Anyways, I'm very proud of him. He's a great role model for our growing sons.
ReplyDelete-Meghan
Meghan! This didn't happen without your amazing help. Congratulations to you all. Great story. Best to you and your family.
DeleteI especially remember the college graduation of our two daughters. I had cancer when they were younger and really wondered if I would get to be there for these events for them. Just wonderful to be here to enjoy family. Thanks for a chance
ReplyDeleteto win this fun prize.
So happy to hear this story, Jan. Those most have been such difficult times. Each day must be a real gift. Best to you and your family. Thanks for sharing this.
DeleteI remember my Dad going to night school when I was a child ...year after year he would take night classes after work 2 or three nights a week. The year I graduated from high school he graduated from college. I was so proud of him and still am as I realized now how hard that would be.
ReplyDeleteM.W., I can see how your pride and awe increase each year. Neat story! I appreciate hearing from you on this. Best to you and your family.
DeleteI've been so worried/ proud/ awestruck watching my son, Nathan, work on his Masters in psychiatric nursing while working 3 jobs in order to allow his wife to stay home with their daughter. He finished in two years, and graduated last Summer. He's now stationed at Cannon AFB, working with soldiers with PTSD and addiction problems, as well as doing personal & group counseling. He is busy, but happy, as he feels he is making a difference in the lives of those who serve our country. Thank you, Kate, for sharing your beautiful artwork so it can be translated onto such yummy fabrics. (I sure wish I could find more fabric from your "Good Fortune" line... I snoozed, I loozed, lol.)
ReplyDelete~Dawn
Go, Nathan! My goodness, your son sure has a work ethic ... and what a difference he must be making for the vets and the people he counsels. Best to you and your family, Dawn. BTW -- You're in luck; we have limited quantities of Good Fortune ... just inquire via e-mail to help@shopkatespain.com
DeleteTwo spring to mind and they were incidentally in the same month a few years ago. One was my sister, who was graduation from veterinary school. She's the second one in our family to have a Dr. added to the front of her name, and I'm super proud of her for making it through. The other was my mother, who - at just over 50 year of age - had graduated with a master's degree in accounting. She had finished her bachelor's degree just a few years before and started working full time while also continuing to go to school. I admire both of them for their hard work and determination.
ReplyDeleteI admire them both, too! Excellent, Anna! Thanks for sharing. Best to you, your sister, your mom, and the family.
DeleteI was really proud of my husband when he graduated. He did a 4 year course, which he actually ended up spending 5 years taking. My course was only 3 years and I found that hard enough! Plus he then had to work for a year in his profession to be fully qualified, it was such a slog for him. Although I think I am even more proud of him now as he has progressed so quickly since he graduated and loves what he does!
ReplyDeleteSarah, "slog" is what a lot of our accomplishments require! So glad to hear about your husband and your accomplishments. Keep up the great work.
DeleteMy daughter, Sarah, managed to graduate from college in spite of her parents. We had previously lived in the Florida panhandle but my USAF husband got transferred to the Washington DC area as she started her sophomore high school year. We planned to return to FL when my husband retired in 3 years. The Air Force had different plans and, when my husband couldn't retire as planned, Sarah started college in Pensacola at University of West Florida where she waited for us. After completing her freshman year in Florida while we remained in Maryland, we finally returned to Florida. Too bad it was short-lived. We returned to Maryland a year or so later, leaving Sarah behind.
ReplyDeleteSarah chose to go to college in Florida knowing her parents would be there with her shortly. She persevered and went on to graduate from UWF in spite of our change of plans, which left her almost 900 miles away. I was and am still so very proud of her!
Your daughter Sarah probably learned a lot about the uncertainty that comes with most plans. Glad you and she all got through it. Thanks for sharing this with us, Susie. Best to you and your family.
DeleteMy mom had me when she was 14, I was her way out of an awful home. She married my dad, and are still married now for almost 38 years! She quit school to take care of me. When she turned 36 she decided to try for her GED so she could go to nursing school. She took a practice test the first night of her classes and passed the GED that night! She enrolled in nursing school, never missed a day and worked full time as a nursing assistant while attending. She graduated with the highest honors in her class! That was almost 15 years ago, I am still so incredibly proud of her! She has always been able to accomplish whatever she has set her mind to.
ReplyDeleteRobin, the tale of your mom is very inspiring. You, your family, and the people she cares for through her work as a nurse are extremely fortunate. Thanks for sharing your special story. Best to you, your mom, and your family.
DeleteMy stepdaughter is graduating from high school next month and on her way to university to become a nurse. She went from almost dropping out of school two years ago, to moving in with us and becoming an honor student. She has worked very hard towards reaching her dreams. I am suppose to be making her a graduation quilt which is not going very quickly so would love to win one for her.
ReplyDeleteLaurie, what a transformational and hope-filled story. Congratulations -- I'm sure you were a great help too! All the best to your stepdaughter in her important pursuits and to you and your family.
DeleteThere are no graduations coming up in our family as all the little ones are only just starting Kindergarten. I am incredibly proud of my own graduations however. I did a degree that I followed up with a Master's and then a PhD. they were hard work but incredible fun at the same time as I worked in freshwater biology at the time and got to combine work activiteies with studies. Since moving 10 years ago I had to give up my fisheries work but now I have a wonderful family, I have had time to develop my passion for sewing, quilting and creating and now I am considering returning to college once the boys are a little older so that I can do some design studies and look forwrad to more graduations to come perhaps.
ReplyDeleteGo for it, Dr. Paula! That sounds like a great next pursuit. What area of design are you interested in? Any chance landscape/waterscape design? All the best to you and your family.
DeleteEvery year around this time, I think of my cousin Erin - who we lost at 17 years old right before she would have graduated. She was a light on this earth. I always think of the things she would have accomplished, but was just not meant to be. However, I still see her around me, as I replanted some flowers from her garden into mine, and they bloom every year without fail on her anniversary. It's like getting a hug straight from her. One thing I will never forget is her graduating class - and her entire school - lined up to meet with our family. All of those kids touched our lives that year and I will never forget it. (side note - those graduates are from an area where just graduating high school is a HUGE accomplishment - so proud of them and will always think of them).
ReplyDeleteAshley, I'm so sorry for your loss. The "Erin" flower that blooms every year without fail ... is magnificent and heart-rending. The high school graduates ... what an unbelievable gesture of kindness .. and, taken together, a real testament to the goodness of Erin and of your family. Shine on.
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ReplyDeleteOh Kate, I LOVE your designs!!! In fact, I just ordered one of the featured quilts above for my bedroom and I can't wait for it to arrive any day. My favorite graduation memory was when my oldest graduated son two years ago. I homeschooled him all the way through so it was a very special time of celebration. Now I have four more that I am homeschooling. :)
ReplyDeleteI am very proud of my husband for finally completing his BS degree. As he said it took him 30 yrs (served 28 yrs in the AF) but he finally did it. He tells everyone that life gets in the way esp with workers but you can complete your degree even if it takes one class at a time. Just be committed to finishing. He graduated on May 10, 2014. :)
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ReplyDeleteSo proud of my hubby for getting his Masters. That is such an accomplishment!!!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE your stuff- these bed collection are stunning. My own graduation was what comes to my mind. I recall the joy of my entire family being there to celebrate as I was the first one on both sides of my family to do this!
ReplyDeleteThose collections are gorgeous! Two quick stories: I went to nursing school in my mid-thirties and was chosen to give the speech at graduation. I looked out at my two young sons, both of whom had supported me so much and saw the pride in their eyes-I told everyone about their support! It was so wonderful. Then, my youngest son had agreed to go to college as long as I could find him a major that allowed him to not take a math course. He graduated with a bachelor's degree in Mathematics. I love that kid!!
ReplyDeleteI had my daughter 3 days after my Junior year was over when I was 17 and just over a month old. Next week she is graduating high school! I graduated on time and went on to get my nursing degree. I haven't always been home with her as a single mother, but I am so proud of her. She hasn't had a great relationship with her Dad for about 8 years now. I'm proud of her, because she is who she is. She doesn't care about what people think. She has a few close friends, and doesn't care about or try to be popular. She's not into boys (or girls-but I wouldn't care if she was) and wears jeans, a Beatles or Elvis Tee and a hoodie everyday. She thinks high school boys are immature and doesn't feel the need to impress them; she has had a few bf's but she is more interested in doing her thing. She has been volunteering at our local animal shelter (Friends of Michigan Animal Rescue) EVERY Friday for 5 or 6 years now with my Mom. What high school kid gives up their Friday to volunteer that you know?! I'm just so proud of her. She has really pulled it together and brought up her grades to all A's. She surprises me with her interests: Elvis, the Beatles, Horticulture, History, Military History, JFK, her hedgehogs, and her latest and biggest: Jacqueline Onassis-Kennedy. I don't know where she gets it! I cared SO MUCH what people thought of me in school, and she doesn't. I'm proud of her as a young lady and my best friend. I've been through a tough time, and she has forgiven me and has been my biggest support. We also lost my sister to cervical cancer when she was 14. She has been through so much and has came out a better person. Sometimes I wish I was more like her. I am SO grateful to God that she is my daughter and I love her more than anyone in the world. Thanks for letting me share about her :) It's funny because I had no idea what baby names her popular when she was born in 96. It turns out that I named her the most common-Ashley and her last name is Smith. There were 2 other babies in the nursery with that first name, and one of them was another Smith-but spelled differently! She is on Name Alert at the University of Michigan health system. But she is definitely the most unique person I know ;)
ReplyDeleteBoth my daughter and son are planning to enroll in college next fall -- my daughter to earn another degree and my son to get started (finally!) on his. So, hopefully, my husband and I will be celebrating two graduations in a few years.
ReplyDeletek(dot)castanette(at)hotmail(dot)com
When I graduated from college it was such a great feeling. It had been a hard struggle, commuting over an hour each way while raising two young girls as a single mom.
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