One month from today, I will be getting ready to graduate.  Along with hundreds of other students, I will have the privilege of walking across the stage of the O’Dome and will accept my diploma.  This time, graduating feels very different.  When I graduated from high school, I felt like my life was just starting.  I had so very much to look forward to – moving away from home, being closer to Tom, starting over on my grades (not that they were bad in high school, but I always like the thought of having a clean slate).  Everyone that I graduated with was saying goodbye, and it was a bittersweet feeling.  Now, I am dreading saying goodbye to some of the very best friends I have ever had.  I’m not going to miss the classes, papers or bus rides.  But I’ll have a really difficult time when I have to say goodbye to those that I have become so close to.  Thankfully, they will all be at my wedding.  They are the types of friends that you want for a lifetime.

Although I don’t feel like I am just starting my life, I am entering a new chapter.  After years and years and years of dreaming about law school, I am on my way!  I have literally dreamt about going to law school since I was in elementary school.  I’ll also be bringing with me to my new school a husband and a family (well, the dogs and cat are our family, too).  I am so excited about what the future holds for me.

Reflecting on the past four years really makes me feel proud and successful.  There have been many challenges along the way – three major changes, relationship troubles, friendship troubles, trying to balance school, work and play – but I’ve managed to do it all.  All the goals I set up for myself I have accomplished, and I am so very proud to say that.

This morning, I am going to be mailing my graduation announcements to friends and family.  It’s a way for me to say, “Hey, look, I did it!  I reached my goals!”  It’s one of the most rewarding feelings.

For those of you who are graduating – whether it be from college, high school, or even if you’re just experiencing a change in your life in the next few months – I wish you nothing but luck and success.  I can’t wait to hear all about your journies (hopefully, you’ll be sharing them).