Graduations

 

Graduation for these two amazing boys was on May 23, 2013. Jordan has his graduation/promotion from middle school at 11:00 that morning. There were a ton of people there and it was sooooo crowded. I wish they would do it in the high school auditorium. There is definitely more room there.

But, the good thing about the middle school is they start on time and they usually only go about an hour. The first thing they did was give out "outstanding" student awards - for academic and sports areas. Jordan received the award for Basketball. His coach (Travis Black) wasn't there, but the assistant principal said some really nice words. He said that this award was going to someone who was very dedicated and did not miss a single practice, to someone who played as a team, who was a leader, and who encouraged each member of the team. I thought that was a pretty good tribute for him.

Jordan also received two certificates for getting good grades. He is such a talented kid. Here are some radom promotion pictures.

 

 

 

 

 

The three graduates - so nice to have cousins in the same grade.

 

After Jordan's graduation, we all had lunch at my mom and dad's house. We figured since the seniors would be getting ready early for their 5:00 graduation, that lunch would be best. We just did a BBQ and then the seniors were given their gifts from my mom and dad.

 

 

My parents give the grandkids a luggage set and a blanket. My mom made all the girls dolls and my dad had these cool wallets made for the boys with their names on them. They are so cool looking.

 

Then we all went home to get ready for graduation. Blanding tradition is to give your child a money lei. Dylan isn't into flowers and stuff, so I decided to make him a bead lei. Took a lot of time with Kevin and I working together, but it turned out really well and he actually wears it (minus the flowers and money) quite often.

 

 

Now, onto graduation. The ceremony was really good. Their main speaker was a graduate from San Juan High who is now a doctor - Josh Nielson. He spoke about the kids accomplishing their dreams and knowing that they can be whomever they want to be. It was a great ceremony.

I am so proud of this kid. He has been through all sorts of trials and always comes out with a laugh and smile. The one thing I am going to miss the most is our afternoon talks. Almost every afternoon, before lunch, he would come to my office and just chill out. He would text, play a game, or just talk to me and every now and then we would go to lunch. I'm going to miss our chats!

Of course after the ceremony, we had to go outside and take pictures.

Not sure anyone is happy in this picture.

Love this one!

I am so lucky to have 4 amazing kids!

The girlfriend - Charis Seely.

They are both always so happy.

Proud papa!

Dylan and Kylar

So glad my parents live so close. They have been a big part of their lives.

What a great family!

Dylan with Jayson McDaniel.

Dylan and Niquee.

Dylan and Briona. 

The three graduates - Kylar, Savannah, and Dylan.

Dylan and Preston.

I am so proud of these two boys. They have become so close lately and have finally stopped fighting with each other. They are talented, smart, and so strong - emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Congrats, boys. Love you tons!