It's all RELATIVE!

Pinning Ceremony May 11th 2006

The night was filled with fond memories of the last two years. Memories flashed on the power point screen of crazy conventions, health fares (which is where I won Valerie's new bike), clinical, skills check off, and celebrations on our last day of clinical! Although I didn’t win “The Most Caring Award” or “The Spirit of Nursing Award” I felt much honored to have accomplished my goals. “Dr. Eu”, as he pinned me, reminded me that he expects great things from me. By that he means for meant in the way of continuing my education. I have to have 1000 hours of practical experience before I can begin work on my Master’s degree. I would love to pursue the path to become an Advanced Practical Nurse. That aside, I am pinned! I have my temporary license for the State of Arkansas and begin my career June 1st!

Graduation Ceremony May 12th 2006

I didn’t expect this ceremony to be as exciting but it was! Wearing the gown, hat, tassel, and holding the diploma felt so wonderful. It was my moment! The Chancellor’s words proclaiming me an official graduate filled me with incredible pride. Okay Mark, I am addicted to Education now! Not much compares with the feeling that you have done something to better yourself, to aid yourself in becoming a “higher intelligence.” I was glad to share this moment with my husband who was sitting with the faculty. Even though I forgot to look up to find him, I was tickled and privileged to know he stood up to see me. Through you I gained my strength. You've encouraged me to be better! You helped me succeed! This day is for both of us!

Mother Daughter Tea May 12th 2006

I think this was Val’s very first time to have her grandma and aunt here for a school function. It was very important for her to introduce them to her teacher and classmates. She was a wonderful host and served us all punch and cookies. She presented me with a Mother’s Day card and a flower pot with seeds that I can watch grow (how she has grown!!!). I love seeing her bloom into such a pretty, bright, intelligent little girl.

Rough and Ready Days May 13th 2006

My sister decided about a month ago she was going to participate in the “Rough and Ready Days walk/run.” I am so proud of her, and wish I had half her energy! She got up at 645am and ran with around 35 other participants. She even received two shirts and the 1st place metal for her age group! You GO GIRL! We had a lot of fun shopping (bought fake Crocs for Val), watching Kim’s Dance Factory girls, making clay art, and jumping in the castle!

Val’s big moment!

Her Auntie Shannon and Mark taught her how to ride her bicycle without any training wheels. She graduated from her little bike to her new one (mentioned above)! She loves riding, which will help with the down time over summer. I am so proud of you!!!



Well you probably wondered what the pictures of the dog was all about! I found this dog in the paper last week and told my sister all about her (she was an abused dog, needed a good home yada yada yada). There is a long story involved here but I am going to give you the short one. Thanks to my friend Stacey (names changed to protect her identity-he hee), my sister was able to fly Jules (names changed to protect the identity) to her home in Seattle! We love her and think she will add a ton of personality to their chaotic world of Boston’s! Thanks to a very kind Veterinarian in Pine Bluff, Jules can fly safe (her owner neglected to keep up with her rabies vaccination) and sedated!

Mother’s Day May 14th 2006

We tried to take my mom out to a nice restaurant before she left town but somehow we ended up at Arby’s in Pine bluff. Although it was a fast food meal we had a great time sitting outside and enjoying the beautiful weather while we ate! Mom, I want you to know how special you are to me. I am very lucky to not only have a mother, but also a true friend! I love you…!