graduating

he graduated from seminary;
said it was pretty easy.
all he had to do was show up-
but he couldn't help but learn in the process.
for four years he spent time in class
during his school schedule
studying scriptures;
a year in the old testament
a year in the new
then the book of mormon
and some church history;
said he enjoyed learning and is excited to extend seminary
into religion institute classes as he moves on.

he graduated from the e.m.t. program;
loved, loved, loved this program!
he met new friends there,
explored a profession in the medical field,
and discovered  a career path he thinks he'd like to pursue.

and then he graduated from high school.

this one got to me.

with a huge graduating class
the procession was no small deal.

i enjoyed the messages of encouragement,
the thoughts of inspirtation
and the goals projected ahead for this class.
i especially loved the music and the advice of using words and actions
for the betterment of those with which you come in contact.

the grandparents were here.
their love and support mean so much.
any parent longs to share these milestones with those
they love the most.

what's a celebration without a little food?

 steak and crab-legs--
nothing but the best for the graduate.

for a more personal graduation gift,
these past several years, i have been saving all kinds of t-shirts from various activities
in which tj has been involved.

after picking out the colors and theme for the project,
i had a very talented friend quilt it all together.

she did a beautiful job!

 tj said it was the best gift he has ever received.
see why i love him so much?

and my advice to the boy???

i have much advice
and he listens.
but one thing i might add to it all: