Brett's Graduation

I'm back! 

Its been a while and I have so much to say!  My friend Elise described my absence well when she recently said that "some women fall off the face of the [blogging] earth when they get pregnant because they feel disgusting and just the act of bringing a saltine cracker to their lips wears them out." True statement. I am happy to report, however, that I am finally feeling better! I am so grateful for a return of my appetite and consequently a return of some of my energy. Also, today marks the beginning of my 19th week of pregnancy. Wow. I'll post more about all of that later, but the purpose of this post is to publicly celebrate and document the achievements of my handsome husband!

We travelled back to Utah last week to participate in Graduation festivities. Brett graduated with a Health Science teaching degree and two minors which qualify him to also teach Spanish and English to second language learners (ESL). He also graduated with a job offer! He's been busy applying to any and every opening around us and got called in for an interview just before we left to Provo. They offered him a Spanish teaching/coaching job. He actually signed all the paperwork yesterday and we feel really good about the school/administration that he will be working for. He is also super excited to work with the athletic department coaching both football and baseball. I couldn't be more proud of him!

Good ole Provo Utah

The Alumni building, mostly I just thought this was a beautiful picture

It was fun to go back and see family and friends. When we first left Provo, I was SO READY for a change. It was nice to go back though and in some ways felt so familiar that it almost seemed like we were "home". I quickly decided that Provo is not home though and reaffirmed that I am glad we left and are done with that stage. It was GREAT while it lasted but I'm glad it is over.

We were blessed to have so many people around to celebrate with. Not everyone could make it, but we were grateful for those who could and for the thoughts and congratulations from those who celebrated from afar.

Brett with his parents before the ceremony

Sporting the Cougar Blue (and a little baby bump that you can hardly see). 

Brett with his Grandparents who made the trip down from Baker City, Oregon

Brett and I with his Mom and Dad outside the Marriott Center on Thursday

The Carlson crew- (Aunt, Uncle and cousins) they even let us stay a few nights with them in Sandy.  Thanks! 

Brett and his brother, Tyler

Graduation consisted of two different ceremonies (Convocation and Commencement).  The big on on Thursday was for all of BYU.  They marched in and we got to hear a few speakers including Elder Dallin H Oaks.  Then on Friday the celebrations were separated by the different colleges within the University.  Brett's major fell under the College of Life Sciences, which is rather large, so we were back in the Marriott center for that. This was the one where they called every one's name and then they walk across the stage, shake some hands and get their "diploma" (which will actually be mailed out and so the cases are all empty).  Tyler was a great photographer and went down nice and close to capture some great pictures!

Getting up and ready to go walk across the stage

Strutting his stuff! 

And just like that, it is official! 

We enjoyed some great weather while there and it was a fabulous way to put an end to our time at BYU.  Of course we have been away from Provo for a few months, but now it is official.  Its easy to downplay the accomplishment when surrounded by a bunch of other college students but I really am proud of Brett for making it through and graduating!  It takes a lot of work and we are grateful for the support of family and friends during the process.  I am especially grateful for Brett's great parents in helping get him off to college and instilling the importance of education in him.

So proud of you babe! 

Brett and his mom wearing the Stole of Gratitude he got for her

We have so many great memories from our time at BYU.  Of course, meeting each other will always top that list!

BYU- you have been good to us!