The days of glory finally arrived, after years of toil, tears, mental strain, prayers, and yes, joy. I graduated from BYU with a degree in American Studies and a minor in Spanish. What is American Studies, you wonder? A major designed to answer (or at least ponder) the great questions of what it means to be American, not just from one discipline, but from many- the humanities, English, history, political science, economics, art, and more. We American Studies students are given great freedom in designing our pursuits of study, after taking the required courses in political science, economics, two humanities classes, and an "American Studies" class, which draws from great writers and philosophers to ask what it means to be an American. I chose a route through the humanities, English, and history, enjoying such courses as "American Folklore," "American Gothic," "American Identities," "Technology in America," and even courses on the American presence in Vietnam, American family history, and America in the Atomic Age. My Spanish minor led me through the literature and history of gorgeous and intricate Spain, which I would very much like to visit some day.
My family came to Provo to celebrate what really is a triumph for all of us, as I could not have achieved the goal of a bachelor's degree without them. Each member of my family has bolstered me with enthusiastic support, financial and moral help, humor, sympathy, and unfailing confidence. As I walked across that stage to shake professors' hands and receive my diploma, I knew that my family had carried me there on their shoulders. I was honored to have them there with me!
We enjoyed such festivities as board games, movies, shopping, delicious dinners, ice cream, and a juicy steak barbecue hosted entirely by Kenny. Bidding each family member goodbye, thank you, and a safe trip home was bittersweet - we loved having everyone here and sharing so many good things together!!! We miss you!!!
The kids of the family hanging out at California Pizza Kitchen!
Jim watching the end of "The Best of Will Ferrell" on SNL - as attentive as ever!
The barbecue!
Jim, Karl, and Dad helping themselves to the juicy watermelon Karl and Megan brought.
Kenny serving juicy steaks and grilled corn to Megan and Dad.
Me and my husband on graduation day!
(More pictures to follow...)
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