The tassle is officially moved: I am graduated

So yesterday and this morning (prior to 9 a.m.), I wore my tassle on the left. However, once they called my name on the stage I was able to move the tassle to the right. I am officially done. It is a great feeling. I worry about the job situation; the jobs are few and there are so many English teachers looking for jobs this year. But I am optimistic. My life has never turned out the way I planned--it has turned out better. I trust that God will do what he wants with my life. I just need to follow his hand. I will let you know when and if I get a teaching position. If I don't get one right away, I will substitute and look for another job to fill my time.

It seems so strange that I came to this place years ago (too many years I can't even count) with my friend Jenny. We had no idea what we were getting ourselves into. All we knew is that we wanted to have fun and experience life outside of Arizona for a little while. Jenny moved back to Arizona, finished her degree, married an incredible and talented man, and now has almost three kids (one is on the way). She is so accomplished and I admire her.

I did not move home with Jenny. I decided to continue my education at BYU and have been blessed ever since. I met great friends that helped guide me to where I am today. I could not have made it here without Kristen and Eliza. They changed my life in ways only I will ever know and appreciate. They helped smooth my rough edges. Kristen taught me to laugh at life and remain faithful to what I believe and love. Although she has changed and grown up, she has always been an anchor for me. Eliza came to me at a time I needed a friend most. She taught me to be kind and honest to myself and others. I haven't always been good to myself and she helped me see the good in me. She also influenced my decision to serve a mission. I am so glad that we were able to serve together. Thank you Kristen and Liza. Thank you so much.

I met other friends which I did not mention above mostly because the post would take pages, but I am grateful for all my friends. I had so much fun at BYU. Looking back over the years, I think about all the boys I went on dates with, all the parties I crashed, all the all-nighters, all books I read or should I say skimmed, all the meals I ate in the Cougareat, all the old fashioned doughnuts I sneaked into classes, all the employers I had, all the papers I grudgingly wrote, all the kids I taught, all the opportunities that were opened up to me, all the blessings I received, it has all been worth it. This place has meant everything to me.

It was here that someone invited me to read the Book of Mormon for the first time. It was here that I gained my faith in Jesus Christ. I didn't really know what it was all about (I doubt I still do, but I have a better idea) until I came here. This place will always hold a special place in my heart.

Looking forward, I am grateful to have an amazing husband who surprises me in every way. He is so smart and will graduate from BYU in two years. I am grateful to have Mya. She makes learning way more fun. And I am grateful for my parents and in-laws that have supported me and will continue to support me in my academic endeavors. Thank you.

Thursday before commencement

President Uchtdorf spoke at commencement. He also received an honorary doctoral degree.

College of Humanities graduation

After I got my diploma (okay, the folder the diploma comes in)

Standing by the sign I stood by so many years ago when I was with Jenny

Our little family

Proud dad

Happy mom