Graduated...again

The first time I graduated was bad enough, but lucky me, I got to do it again! Standing in line for an hour in those horrible gowns with the ugly caps, and the annoying tassel that gets in your mouth every time you move...I don't understand who thought this was a good idea. Give me my sheet of paper that says I actually went to school and let me leave!! UGH...you can see how much I loved it, but it was the end of an amazing part of my life. Graduating from Western Wyoming was the culmination of a lot of ups and downs, tears and smiles, and many life experiences.

I completely despised this place the first 9 months I was there. I couldn't find one thing that was good about it except my best friend Ryan, my roommate Connie, and my dear friend Rachael. Ryan was my saving grace. I know that my Heavenly Father had planned that perfectly because I never would have in a million years picked Ryan to be my best friend, but He knew we needed each other. He made me laugh and kept me sane while I was missing everyone at home. I am so proud of Ryan and his decision to be on a mission now in Guatemala. He made a big impact on my life and will forever be a wonderful friend.

Connie and I are polar opposites, but somehow got along perfectly. She is a little fashionista and found a way to spend hundreds of dollars on clothes in Rock Springs! Haha. I am still not sure how that happened, but she always made me laugh. Especially her raps! I'm thankful I met her and learned from her. Rachael is one of the strongest people I know. Her life has not been one of ease, but she came out on top. She is now married with a beautiful baby girl. I am thankful to have her in my life as an example of perseverance and continual happiness.

I never would have made it through that first year without my wonderful missionary Landon. Not a missionary at that point, but he loved me from 3 hours away and took care of me the best that he could. So many times he would just listen to me cry about my problems and send a hug through the phone. He made coming home the greatest. I was a princess in his eyes and that made the world ok. I miss him more than my heart knows how to handle most days, but we are getting there. 7 and 1/2 months down...almost 1/3 done and we still love each other. I don't know what will happen between us, but he will forever be the best friend I could ever ask for. Always there for me no matter what. I don't know what I would do without him. So...next 16 and 1/2 months, please hurry. I want him back! :)

The second year as those who follow have read previously, has been the complete opposite. I have loved it from the first day. I was blessed with a team of wonderful girls that each have a special place in my heart. This year has gone by faster than any year in my life. These girls taught me so many life lessons I wouldn't even know where to begin. I was blessed with 3 wonderful roommates that hugged me when I cried, laughed with me at my retardedness, and took care of me when I decided to pass out and hit my head! Good thing 2 of them are nurses :) I already miss our late night talks and adventures when we all can't sleep. I miss the sleep talking and walking, the alarms that never shut off, and the never ending pile of dishes. 

Love these girls and Matt forever :)

So long story short, as much as I hate graduation, I am so grateful for everything in between that got me into that ugly gown and horrible cap. All the things in between are what really matter.