Greenville, SC Graduation Day

 Graduation day started with a luncheon for all of the graduates.

There were 31 seniors present and 27 who did not participate in graduation.  The only time I had tears during the ceremony was when I saw Aliza as she walked in.

Each graduate was introduced. They stood along with their family while a statement was read about each of them. The information was gathered from a 2 page questionnaire that we received without explanation. Aliza filled it out half heartedly. She and I both held our breath when we realized where they had gotten their information. Thankfully, there was only one question that Aliza wished she had answered differently had she known what it was for.

The speaker had a good message and kept it short. And then it was time for diplomas.

And then pictures of course!

It was extra special that both sets of grandparents could make the trip to be with us.

This sisters picture is going to be one of my favorites for the next long time!

There was a dinner reception following graduation. Each of the graduates submitted 2 pictures and a fun fact about themselves. Each slide was unique in layout which impressed me. After the meal

After dinner, the AHE staff recognized the parents of the graduates with this speech:

Wow! What a journey you all have been on to get to this point today. There have been tears, long days, frustration, joy, laughter, growth and hopefully a sense of accomplishment! If you have traveled the journey from K5 to 12th grade (with BJU curriculum, which I have), you will have completed the following things:
    -3 courses in Kindergarten
    -7 courses in Grade 1
   - 8 courses each in Grade 2-6
    -5 courses in Grade 7-8
    -7 to 8 courses each in Grade 9-12
Giving a grand total of somewhere between 88 to 92 courses by the end of 12th grade. We, at AHE, promise not to go into detail about the number of tests/quizzes and even the dreaded papers that were completed along the way. Graduates, we hope that gives you a great sense of accomplishment. BUT we know that you did not do this journey alone.

The journey would not have been completed without the cheerleader, coach, psychiatrist, counselor, financial assistant, and those better known  as your parents, grandparents, and yes, even the possible sibling. Graduates, you have already received your hard-earned diploma today, BUT this certificate is for those who have been there with you through the journey, your parents. AHE would love to recognize their hard work with this piece of paper.

From the staff at AHE, we are so proud of the hard work that has been put in by all of you to this point. We will continue to pray for you all as this time ends, and a new journey begins. 

Aliza gave me the Certificate of Completion and I cried.

Commencement is completed, but "to commence" means "to begin" and so it is with great anticipation that I look forward to this new season of life for Aliza and all she will do and accomplish. (And there will probably be a few more tears along the way!)