This past week has been an unbelievable week of proud moments for me. It started with Barry, Jr. graduating from Southeastern Louisiana University with a B. A. in General Studies. He chose not to walk at graduation which was initially disappointing for me; however, ultimately it was his decision, not mine, and I soon realized that walking across that stage is not for everyone and not walking does not make me any less proud of his accomplishment. Now, it is time for Barry, Jr. to embark on a new adventure. 
On Monday evening, Andrew and his classmates celebrated their Ring Mass where they received their senior rings. Andrew also served at the Mass which always makes me proud. He even received a shout out from his principal about his ministry to serving at school Masses and becoming a Eucharistic Minister. He is officially a senior at STA.
On Wednesday morning, my 8th graders at Holy Ghost Catholic School attended their Awards Ceremony where they were honored for their achievements in academics, service to their school and community, as well as sports and other extracurricular activities. Later that evening, my 8th grade students graduated from Holy Ghost Catholic School. They are now officially on their way to high school, and I am proud of their accomplishments. Watching them walk out of church was a bittersweet moment for me because the 8th Grade Class of 2018 is my last group of students that I will teach. In a sense, I graduated with them.
On Thursday morning, I attended Andrew’s Undergraduate Awards Ceremony at St. Thomas Aquinas. Andrew and I were both overwhelmed with all of the awards that he received. He was recognized in Physics, English III AP: Language & Composition, Theology III, and Computer Science. He received the Sacristan Award for serving at the school Masses. He received the St. Michael’s College Book Award for demonstrating a commitment to volunteerism and leadership in community service endeavors. He also received the Cash, Coudrain & Sandage Scholarship for embodying the mission of St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic High School. WOW! While I am proud of Andrew’s achievements, I am most proud of how humble he was when being recognized at the ceremony and how humble he is in general.
On Friday morning, Andrew and the Class of 2019 had Senior Step Up Day. Four generous moms had shirts made for all of the students to wear. The students, driving their vehicles, paraded onto the STA campus and parked in the senior parking lot. It was an exciting moment for them.
Finally, Andrew attended his Tennis Banquet this afternoon. He received the Most Improved award with his doubles partner Brian, and they both lettered. Again, WOW! I am so proud of them both. They played well together and always had such terrific attitudes on the court. True sportsmanship!
It was a whirlwind week for Andrew as he transitioned from a junior to a senior. It was an end of a chapter for Barry, Jr. and myself. All three of us are blessed to be moving in new directions. Dear reader, I am optimistic and excited for both my sons and myself. Hopefully, we will all enjoy the upcoming journey that begins now. Happiness!
“The credit belongs to those who are actually in the arena, who strive valiantly; who know the great enthusiasms, the great devotions, and spend themselves in a worthy cause; who at best know the triumph of high achievement; and who, at worst, if they fail, fail while daring greatly, so that their place shall never be with those cold and timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.” ~ Theodore Roosevelt
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