The Graduate!

Today we all watched as Gretel put on her cap and gown to join her graduating class.  Even though she officially graduated from William and Mary this past December, it was a special moment to watch her file in, big purple flower in hand (so we could identify her), among the sea of black robes.  The weekend has been filled with inspirational speeches about hope and courage and following your dreams.  The whole family had some drippy eyes as we thought about the dream Gretel was pursing right now and the courage she was mustering every day to make it a reality.  The dream of finishing her undergrad is now behind her, the challenge of law school is ahead, and she is in the midst of completing the longest walking path in the world with her brother by her side!

Congratulations Gretel and Happy Trails!

The Whole Gang! 

(Gretel is holding her oar that she gets to keep after 3 years on the William and Mary Crew Team)

Hansel and Gretel... And Two Bad

Three Sibs

Graduation Weekend!

Friday evening was the start of a weekend family reunion in celebration of Gretel's college graduation!  Mom and I (Manda) flew down to Virginia and were picked up by the big black Suburban that Two Bad rented for the weekend.  You might be thinking that such a rig is a bit excessive, but we filled every seat by the time Aunt Ruth and Uncle Mike arrived!  I am still trying to decide if we looked like a special government vehicle or a clown car when 8 people climbed out of the thing.  

Anyway, Hansel and Gretel's weekend off the Trail gave them plenty of time to reflect on their journey, share some stories, enjoy motivational speeches given at various graduation ceremonies, eat delicious meals, and relish some quality family time.  The next few posts will include some of the events, conversations, and reflections that took place along with a few pictures of course!

Happy Trails!

Hansel, Gretel and Two Bad (Note the Beards!)

Three Siblings! 

The Whole Family!  

(Uncle Mike, Two Bad, Mommo, Aunt Ruth, Hansel, Gretel, and Amanda)