We had the pleasure of watching our daughter, Anna, graduate from college.
We've been going to Seattle for the last 15 years. Usually in August, usually to go to their very fine opera performances.
When this darling daughter was searching for colleges we were encouraging her to stay east - NY or Boston. She chose Seattle. She was rather determined.
So off she went, to Seattle University. We were skeptical - not so much of the education, as it is a Jesuit school. But of her commitment to living so far from home, and her willingness to brave those inevitable hurdles of growing up by herself with no family around. She is adventurous, and she has had experiences of living away from home ... but still.
We were gratefully proven wrong on all counts. She thrived there. And her ability to grow, mature and handle life deepened in ways that may have taken much longer if we'd been geographically closer. So she has been able to come through traumatic and tragic events, difficult academic situations, and navigate her love life ... and graduate Magna Cum Laude. I have to say that she is pretty awesome.
We're so lucky. And immensely proud of her. And the world is incredibly fortunate to have this woman hitting the ground running!
Congratulations to all! Our dd graduated from Willamette in Oregon last year; I am a fan of PNW college adventures.
ReplyDeleteOh man, that's swell! Congratulations on a successful launch. She's a pretty girl and smart. The world at her feet.
ReplyDeleteCongratulations. My (teenage!) daughter is in love with Seattle too, although nothing's exactly been thought through at all. You make it look easy.
ReplyDeleteCan't describe the elation, love, pride, and relief! Every milestone is like a ... well, a milestone!
ReplyDeleteKeifus, there is a lot of wisdom in admonishments to love them as hard as you can and hold on as lightly as possible. I don't think we can take much credit for this wonderful girl's achievements.
Although I kind of like basking in her light!
Probably the hardest part (looking back) was last summer when she took off in her Honda Civic, alone, to drive from Florida to Seattle ... over 5 weeks. Alone. Staying with friends from school and friends from the Internet.
These are the times that try (these) parents' souls.
I watched my independent one climb up on the stage last night four times, to collect accolades for his work over these last three years. And enjoying how much he clearly delighted in his friend's accomplishments...
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