Commencement...Be ready with the tissues, parents!

May I start this blog with heartfelt congratulations to the parents and grandparents of recent or upcoming graduates! And to the college graduates themselves for having a goal of a college degree and meeting that goal, however long it took!

John and I just spent last weekend in 1000 Oaks attending California Lutheran University's 46th Commencement ceremonies. It was a joyous event - my tears started to run freely during the first few seconds of "Pomp and Circumstance" and the parade of CALLU professors and faculty in full regalia, followed by the three hundred and fifty, or so, undergraduate candidates. Andrew was in his gown and hood and mortarboard flanked by his best friends, fellow ruggers and roommates from Freshman year, Mike and Vinnie. Their smiles were huge and their step was lighthearted. Speeches followed, my tears of pride continued, the sun burned our necks and shoulders and after two, almost three hours, it was over and Andrew was officially recognized and celebrated as a CALLU alumni. After the ceremony he found us - I saw a new confident young man approach us with diploma in hand and a bright future about to begin. ....ok, so a few more tears. I am so proud!

Cal Poly's Commencement is in about four weeks! We look forward to the graduates' families staying with us at Petit....many have been with us since they dropped their babies off at the Cal Poly dorms four and five years ago. The kids and the parents were a bit hesitant and uncertain ...but now there will be an excitement in the air unlike any other. It is the happiest time at Petit and we are so ready for a fun weekend! I will have extra boxes of tissue on hand, and celebratory Mimosas on Sunday morning, June 14th.

Although the media and the news is discouraging for this Class of 2009, I am quite sure that they will shine bright and be leaders in whatever endeavor that they undertake. They are the "YES WE CAN" class of 2009!

Congratulations to all!

Dianne