Cold and Rain - Perfect for Deer Hunts & Graduation??

I didn't think I'd be saying this while Ryan is only 3 years old, but I am. He went on his first deer hunt today with JD and Daddy. It was rainy and cold and Bud didn't think they'd see anything, but they did and he actually shot 2 deer - a doe and a small buck. The doe ran after she got shot, but didn't go far. The boys went out and had their first experience tracking a deer - they were so excited when they found her.

Then they each held a leg while Bud gutted the deer. They held up really well watching all that (I don't think I could have done that).

While they were busy deer hunting, I went to Kelli's graduation. After many years of dedication and perseverence, she graduated from the University of Incarnate Word. She got a B.S. in Business Administration. We have all been looking forward to this day for a long time and it will definitely be a day to remember. One that we'll look back at and laugh one of these days.

UIW holds their graduation ceremonies on their football field. Uncovered football field. Rain or Shine. And rain it did. All day long. It was about 45 degrees and it rained the entire time. We thought for sure that they'd speed up the ceremony, cut all the pre-presentations and speeches short, but they didn't. I couldn't believe it, but I was also surprised when the crowd started booing. It's amazing how quickly adults turn into children when they're put into a situation like that. There was complaining and whining and booing when it didn't go our way. It was actually kinda comical.

But all that aside, we were so proud of Kelli! 12 of us sat through the rain and cold just to watch the 5 second moment when she walked across the stage to receive her diploma. I couldn't help but cry a little bit. I know how much dedication it takes to finish school while working full time and raising children. It's something that many people just give up on, but Kelli didn't. She pushed through even when she didn't want to, and finally got to this day! And the coolest thing? She never has to go back to school again.

Yay Kelli! Class of 2011!!!

Update 12/14/11 --- The UIW made an official apology to the graduates for not having a back-up plan and ruining this special day for so many people who've worked hard for it. They refunded $60 of the $100 graduation fee and plan to hold a reception for the graduates in January. Kelli's response: "I'm not going to that - I've already graduated and don't need another party."  She's in good spirits about it. While it was a wet, cold day, it was very memorable!