My Little Graduate

These pictures (with the purple, flowered dress) were taken the evening of the graduation party at the school.

Exactly 2 weeks ago my tiny, baby girl, Afton graduated from the 8th grade. Really? Am I that old. I remember my 8th grade graduation like it was yesterday. I had my hair done, my mom and grandma made my dress, the school band played the theme from Mash. Really, it seems like it wasn't that long ago...

But, this isn't about me... it's about Afton.

The thing I love about Afton is she doesn't put on any airs. She is who she is. Since she is tall (5' 81/4"), she was on the back row of graduates, and because she was an honor students she was on the end. This, coincidentally, meant that she was the first in the class to get her diploma. She was beautiful and raidiant, she gracefully got her diploma from the principal and then walked back to the center of the stage and posed for a photo or 2 from her "camera-happy" mom. I was impressed with her poise and unconcern about being by herself in the center of the stage while others waited. After the pictures she continued on across the stage.

About 1/2 way across she realized she was walking the wrong way. Of course she turned around and when the right way. She was embarrassed but pulled the whole thing off with great dignity. The good thing about it was I was probably the only parent to get a good photo of their student with their diploma. The rest of them (who did it right) got their diploma and immediately turned and when back to their seat. Afton you are a riot!

Afton was not only recognized for having high honors, she also received $25 and a medal for excellence in writing.

She cried when the exit music played, again, not afraid to show emotion. She has many friends and teachers whom she will miss and who will miss her, since she will be attending San Bentio High School next year instead of Anzar.

the back of the necklace says, "Luck; when preparation meets opportunity."