Yesterday my "baby" graduated from college. She is the third of my four children to graduate from the University of Illinois (my alma mater as well), so at our house we "bleed orange and blue," as we Illini like to say. She doesn't appreciate being called "the baby," but she was our little "surprise," born nearly 16 years after my oldest son. Her older brothers and sister like to point out to her how much easier she had it than they and that she has been spoiled. My husband and I respond that we were older, wiser, and mellower when she was born, but yes, I admit, she has been somewhat coddled. So I am especially proud that she had the determination and persistence to complete her degree and now plans to continue with grad school.
We were equally proud of our daughter-in-law who received her MBA on Saturday. What makes her accomplishment even more amazing is that she continued working at her full-time job as well as raising two small children while studying for her degree. And I must admit, I am also proud of my son who made it possible for her to keep up with her studies, taking care of the kids two nights a week so she could attend classes besides helping her out throughout the week.
We took everyone out to eat last night to celebrate. My parents were there, so I did get to treat my mom to a Mothers' Day dinner after all. All five grandchildren and all my children except the daughter who lives in Arizona were also there, so it was a wonderful day.
Today the sun is finally shining again, and it's time to get back to gardening. So please forgive my little indulgence here in bragging about my children, but I think those of you who are mothers will understand. Seeing your children grow up and become responsible, caring adults is the best Mothers' Day gift of all.
