Graduation...

It's time...
My #1 is graduating.
The Band Moms and one Band Dad got together and made surprise scrapbooks for this year's seniors. We filled them with pictures and keepsakes...
Since my sister and my in-laws are far away and probably won't get to see the book - I thought I'd at least share the letter I wrote to put in #1's book. 

Dearest #1,

Your senior year at Highschool is over. You are graduating in a few days. It seems like just yesterday you were getting on the kindergarten bus. Time just flew ~ How did that happen??

Thanks to the US Army, you have been given the opportunity to follow your dreams, study at VMI - your first choice school, and serve your country. This is the beginning of the next step of a wonderful journey! Just think - You are going to learn, see the world, do great things, and have awesome experiences! As my Gram used to say, “The world is your oyster”.  I can’t wait to see where it all leads. That said, Dad and I are in need of a destination vacation, so choose your deployment assignments with your dear parents in mind, okay?

College is a time to grow. You’ll grow in ways you never expected and I’m not talking about biceps. You’ll be pushed and pulled in many directions – some good, some exciting, and some difficult. It’s your level head and your faith in God that will keep you on the straight and narrow.  I can only hope that you remember your roots and your small town values as you move in new and unfamiliar circles.  Temptation comes in many forms – you’ll be tempted to try things, go places, and do the stupidest most moronic things you’d never think you’d do. The question is – which path will you follow?  The choice is yours, but the repercussions are like a pebble dropped in a lake. They affect more than you alone and most, both good and bad, will follow you well into adulthood.

Success in life comes down to 4 simple rules:

1. Keep your head up, your mouth closed, and your eyes and ears open.

2. Always tell the whole truth – no matter what.

3. Think twice before you speak or act.

4. Don’t shame your mother. 

(If you follow rules 1 - 3 to the letter you won’t have to worry about rule number 4.)

We love you.

We are proud of you.

Love,

Mom and Dad

That says it - right?