Graduation tri

Last night, my baby graduated from high school.  It was a beautiful and emotional ceremony at Xavier High School.  The class salutatorian and valedictorian gave compelling speeches, and the commencement address by Andy Strand, the Phy. Ed. teacher was humorous and to the point.  These are the things that I took away from the night....

Not everyone has an easy life, and even though you don't get what you think you want or need, things happen for a reason and you still need to do your best.

Do what you love!  If money were no object, what would you do?  Then do it! 

F-cubed.  Faith, Family, and Friends.  Know that God is always with you, don't forget your family, and surround yourself with good friends. 

I think we can all take something away from those 3 speakers, not just the graduates.  I'm a big believer in that things happen for a reason.  Looking back on my life in just the last 10 years, I see people who have come into my life just when I needed them.  Coincidence?  I don't think so.  Is life easy?  Not always.  Is life worth it?  Definitely! 

Since as long as I can remember, I've wanted to be a photographer.  I used to look at Sports Illustrated and LIFE magazine and marvel at the photos.  But, being a photographer was never something that I thought I could actually do, so I chose to go to college and become a teacher.  Also a passion of mine.  I love seeing kids succeed in doing something they struggled with.  Fast forward many years, add in a job cut, and with the encouragement of friends, I started my own photography business.  So, I do love what I do as a teacher AND photographer!

Faith, family and friends.  Where would I be without any of them?  As I look back, I can see the times that God has answered my prayers.  After my divorce I struggled financially.  Luckily I was really good at using coupons and saving money, but there were times when I wondered where I was going to get the $100 to pay for Eric's soccer fees, and the transportation check from Kimberly would come in the mail.  Things always have a way of working themselves out, if you only have faith.  Family.  My parents and siblings have been SO supportive of me, as well as my godmother. They constantly tell me how well I've done as a single mom, and they are always there when I need them.  I love being a mom.  I think it's what I was really meant to be.  I struggle a bit with the fact that my oldest is now living in Indiana and my youngest is going off to college in the fall.  I'll have an empty nest and I'm not so sure I'm going to like that, because sometimes I feel as though being a mom is who I am.  Friends.  I have GREAT friends!  Some of my friends have come into my life for just a short time, but have meant the world to me.  Others stick with me through my happy times and my bitchy times.  They support me, some go on photo adventures with me, and some will meet me to have a Diet Coke or Smirnoff Ice!

So, take the advice of the graduation speakers.  Do what you love and be sure to keep God, family and friends in your life.  Good luck to all the graduates of 2013.  The world is waiting for you.  Go out and make a difference!