My Great Graduate

There certainly has been a lot of pomp and circumstance at our house lately! And it has been WONDERFUL to celebrate my children's accomplishments. This week it was my beautiful daughter Aubrey walking down the carpet in cap and gown.

I can hardly believe it: my baby, graduating from high school! Then I have only to look at her, to realize that she isn't a baby at all, but a beautiful, fiercely independent and bright young woman, with a future I know she'll forge with her typical style.

 

She's come a long way from being that shy first grader who had a tough time adjusting to the schedule and demands of elementary school. As she matured, she's been such a motivated and diligent student, and I've been so proud of her and how important her studies are to her. I've never had to nag her about assignments or preparation—she's always quietly and consistently made her mark. And I know that it's a significant one.

I also love her uniqueness and courage to be herself. In a world where kids feel pressured to fit in, my Aubrey is a standout. She absolutely loves photography (hooray!) and lives for her vintage cameras and shoots captured on real FILM. She often muses that she was born 40 years too late, as she has a great affinity for retro culture, from 70s-style clothing, to music, literature and more. From her soulful, self-taught guitar to going barefoot nearly everywhere (it would be EVERYWHERE, even church, if that were possible!), she's an extraordinary and strong spirit completely at home with her passions and values. How I love her for it.

More than anything, I'm excited for her and this new chapter in her life. My Aubrey, my sweet baby, my strong young woman, I love you dearly and know that a bright future awaits!