And Down the Stretch I Come...

Dear One and All,
Today is Sunday May 3, 2009 and in just 6 little days (that is 142 hours as of right now, give or take a few minutes) I will be walking across the TRBC stage to receive my [fake-real one will be mailed out in July] Master's level diploma! That's right folks...pretty soon I'll be a bonafide smart person...and well on my way to my PhD!!! How amazing is that?
As I reflect upon all that has gone in my life, I have to say that I am bit proud of myself. I've overcome a lot of hurdles to earn each diploma that I have, which is way I display them at home. Those framed pieces of paper reflect more than just a bunch of papers I wrote, books I read, and facts I've memorized. They reflect so many years of life, with the accompanying joys and trials that come with life.
It is rainy and gloomy today, and normally that affects my mood, but not today. Today I'm exhausted and stressed because I have 2 finals on Tuesday, but mostly I'm excited and full of joy. There is so much going on this week and it all looks to be good stuff. On Thursday I'm going out to lunch and bowling with a bunch of my friends.
Which brings to another thought---it has taken awhile, but I have a great group of friends here and I don't know what I'd do without each of them. They are all such interesting people and serve a distinct role in my life. I may not have a large group of friends, but I have some great ones and that is what is really important to me. So I'm giving a shout out to all of my VA friends!
After bowling on Thursday I'm going to the seminary banquet. I get to get all dressed and go out to eat and then we are going roller-skating afterward. Should be a marvelous evening. And as icing on the cake, my family arrives on Thursday.
Friday begins the pomp and circumstance of graduation. Saturday is the actual day of the 2 ceremonies, and Sunday is Mother's day and I am blessed to have my Mom, Aunt and Grandma here for the day!!! That probably won't happen again.
So many blessings to focus on this week. I've needed this for awhile now, and I'm planning on soaking up all the joy that I can this week and remembering that it is only due to the Lord's provision, love, mercy and grace that I have so many wonderful things going on right now.

THANK YOU LORD!!!
Paige