The past 2 years I have spent in the Master's program at Utah State University studying Marriage and Family Therapy, which has been the most challenging, yet rewarding experience that I have ever had in my life. I have been pushed mentally, physically, emotionally, and even spiritually. There were times that I seriously considered what on earth I was putting myself through and if it was worth it. But I will assure you that it was and is worth it! I remember a few times when I would burst into tears for pretty much no apparent reason and Brett would look at me like 'what have you done with my wife? Can i have her back now, please?!?' He has been a huge support to me through it all and am sure glad I didn't have to go through all of that alone. The people that I spent the last two years with truly have made a lasting imprint on my heart and soul (oh man - that's cheesy but oh so true!). They are wonderful, incredible human beings who supported me, teased me, made me cry, made me laugh, and kept me going. They have helped me grow in so many ways. I was blessed to be able to be in such a great cohort. They were awesome! Thanks f or all the good times guys!
We spent much of last week just partying, eating, and having fun. We went to one of our professors house (Thanks Kay!). He did his undergrad degree in concert piano so he played for us. His son, Parker, has mad skills on the electric guitar but says he is not very good because he's only been taking for 6 months. He's amazing and pretty much my hero. Kay's wife, Glenna, is a singer. She sings in the MOTAB and has an incredible voice. We even talked her into singing for us and it gave me the chills. They have a beautiful family and we were so lucky to be able to get the chance to be in their home and share their talents with them. Here's a picture of the whole gang, my cohort, the 1st year cohort, and Kay.
The next night 4 of us from the cohort got together and went shooting, had dutch oven potatoes and chicken, and sat around the fire. A great time was had by all. Of course some photos to document the occasion.
On Friday, May 6, 2011 I graduated with my Master's in Marriage and Family Therapy! YAHOO! Brett's ceremony was the next day but he decided not to walk and after sitting through mine, we were all glad we didn't have to sit through another one! Here are a few pictures to document the occasion.
Evidence of the hooding, the walk across the stage, and shaking hands with a whole bunch of people i don't even know, just to get this empty book...
Everyone from the MFT program that walked with us from left to right, Kay Bradford (professor), Justin Gordon, Jonathan Zabriski, Heather Thompson, Stephanie Hebert, Me, Wade Stewart (didn't walk because he's finishing his thesis but was there to support), Emma Hanks, Jeff Allen (his kids are in front) and the director of the MFT Program, Scot Allgood.
My AWESOME cohort (l to r): Stephanie Hebert, Justin Gordon, Me, Wade Stewart, Emma Hanks, and Jeff Allen
The best in-laws ever!
My cute parents
The graudates
No graduation celebration is complete without some good food or cake. We ate the Bluebird and had cake there too.
cutting the cake - Precious!
My cousin, Jacob, graduated with his Undergrad on Sat, so we had a little ice cream party that evening to celebrate with the three Grads.
Flowers that I got from everyone all looked great in one vase.
Brett graduated with a BS in English, emphasis Technical Writing with a minor in Biology and Chemistry. It has taken him 7 years to figure out what he wanted to be when he grows up (the growing up still hasn't happened yet) but he has decided on Physical Therapy. He has been accepted to Sacred Heart University and University of Florida. We have to make the big decision by May 12 (THIS THURSDAY!) Please cast your vote as to which school you would like us to attend the most, taking into account that you WILL be out for a visit.
Thanks for everyone, expecially our families, for the love and support through all of the tough decisions and the hard times of school. We sure appreciate your love and prayers.
Now it is on to bigger and better things! Don't forget to cast your vote....
