On January 23, 1994 I met one of the sweetest little ladies ever. Who would have thought that today, we’d still be just as close and I’d be witness to her dressed in blue from head-to-toe. Cap and gown. The traditional garb when one passes from one milestone on to the next hurdle. In 1994, I was finishing my own studies. In May of that year, I donned my own cap and gown of black and gold with my Animal Management degree. I would not have missed today for anything in the world. I would have walked the distance to see my girl walk across the stage. My only sadness coming from the frog in my throat that wouldn’t allow me to yell and scream when I heard “Jessica R. Moorhouse.” I honestly feel like she’s a part of me. As everyone knows, she’s not related by blood or marriage but related by the closest friendship anyone can have. It’s stood the test of time. I couldn’t be more proud of how this young woman has grown and sprouted. She has such a wonderful life ahead of her and I can only wish to continue to be part of that life. It’s lasted over miles while I built my career over five states away. My Jessica is about to start her journey in College!
March, 1994
June, 2012
That little taste of pre-school graduation that I had last week? Nothing in comparison as to what I felt on this day. I was so nervous. Why? No clue. She had done all the hard work already. Graduation was the end result. A chance for us to applaud her achievements and walk around with my chest puffed up because “my girl” was about to walk across the stage.
We couldn’t find her. We didn’t see her walk in, assumed she was sitting across the auditorium when in fact, she was directly in front of us!
She graduated from my Alma Mater. Kenmore West, has a history, a long history of being a great place for an education. It was surely the most intimidating place of my life. Hopefully, her High School career went smoother for her than it did for me and that she will cherish her memories there as she grows up and moves on.
My girls? They had their moments but for one of life’s most boring situations, they did well.
Yup, Sonyea took a nap while Zia laid on the floor.
And irked the people in front of us. However, they were better behaved than I could have expected.
Valedictorian, Miss Kate Miller.
Jessie has known her longer than me, but I’ve known of her just as long. They met each other in Kindergarten, played softball together and was best friends since forever. This lovely lady has had a difficult life but excels in hockey, softball and obviously her studies! Go Kate! She’ll be attending Syracuse University next fall and I’ll only be an hour away from her. All our best to her!
I set up my camera multiple times, changed settings after many bad pictures so I could get the best. When the perfect time came to get the perfect picture, it totally malfunctioned on me. Zoomed in and out on it’s own. That’s when I put it down and just enjoyed the moment.
Congratulations to my baby girl, Jess who’s on to the next step. All my love and hopes for a wonderful future!
