Maria's Graduation from the University of Michigan

Back in February, at our UP Adaptive Track & Field Clinic, Maria mentioned that students could apply to be commencement speakers, but she did not have the time or inclination to do such a thing.  That's a travesty - this girl has a story to tell, and the world (and the U of M) should hear it.  So I told her that I would write her application for her, and if she got accepted, she would HAVE to do it.  Well guess what... 

Maria did a fantastic job.  She is such a natural public speaker, and I am SO proud of this girl!  Here's her commencement address - part of which I wrote (she added to it but kept some of what I put in her application).  

At the last second, her father John handed me his camera and deemed me primary photographer of the moment as well.  UHHHHHHH... no stress there!  But the moment was captured, and it was a fantastic day.  So glad I got to be a part of it!

 

Abby, Maria and I... changing the world.  

Bekie's 21st Birthday

 Niece Bekie is celebrating 21 years around the sun!  The Aho Clan gathered to eat way too much food and bowl.  SOME of us (who shall go unnamed) bowled their worst game in history - a whopping 32 points after 10 frames.  I will blame it on the tendinitis I'm currently experiencing in my wrist, but whether I used the bowling frame, my left hand, a granny shot or palm technique... nothing would knock down those stupid pins.  Oh well.  Fun was had.  That's all that matters.  Happy Birthday Bekie!

Her Final Band Concert

 I am having a tough time with all these "lasts" for my baby girl.  Today was her final band concert.  I have so enjoyed listening to these kids over the years!  Mrs. Fontaine is Reagan's favorite teacher and has been her music teacher since before she started kindergarten - through all of elementary, middle, and high school.  Reagan got her love of music through Mrs. Fontaine, and has become an excellent baritone player.  How I hope she continues on with music!  I'm thinking the Vienna Youth Symphony (I'm sure there must be one) is in need of a good baritone player next year!

Quincy Mine

 

Our pets LOVE uncle Jack.  The feeling may be mutual.

Took our visitors on a tour of the Quincy Mine today!  Grandpa Carl (Aunt Kathy's father) was a silver miner out west for his entire career - a job which eventually took his life at age 62.  Uncle Jack's father was also a miner for a few years before giving up the job to become a butcher.  Mining is tough work.  I can't imagine what my grandfather did day in and day out to provide for his family.  He was made of tough stuff.  

A Confirmation

 This was just a blessed, stunningly beautiful day.  Come Holy Spirit!