Good Day, Sunshine!

When you dream dreams and they come true... you are truly blessed. What a spectacular day I had for my 50th birthday and my graduation from Western Michigan University! Right down to the weather- it was great! They had called for storms, (and even dare I say it ... snow) for that long weekend and it was sunny - chilly - but sunny. Then what really brought in the warmth was all the well wishes and friendly faces that graced me on this memorable occasion. Right from the moment I woke in the morning, I was as excited as a kid at Christmas! I just absorbed all the chatter and congrats during the wait to enter Miller Auditorium. Then to walk into that place and to be a part of why people were there was really cool! I spotted Andrea and my folks and waited with the rest of my fellow graduates to be honored by our University President, John Dunn and senior staff and professors. I was suprised to be one of the students that was to be highlighted that morning and was sent best wishes for turing 50! WOW, pretty sweet! Our family time was next as we met at the University Roadhouse and shared a meal together. It was complete, except for Derek and Kari being absent, Derek because of sickness and Kari is away serving her country. (we are so proud, baby!) I felt like a princess, it was truly my day, and I love you all for making it so special. Then we returned to my house where everyone set out to help with the last minute things in preparation for the open house! Boy am I lucky there is so much talent in my family. Thank you Deborah for your artistic hand with the flowers. Mom you were a great help in the kitchen and beyond! Libby and Kim where ever and when ever I needed you, you were there. Michele thanks for all you did. And last but truly not least, my baby- Andrea, I could not, would not have wanted to do any of this with out you!!! You were there to do everything and without complaint. Thank you from the top to the bottom! I love you!

Then to you all that came and spent some time with me that day! How marverlous I feel to be thought of and cared for by you all. It was simply over the top....