You reminded me of how long it took me to get my degree. It was 12 years in the making to finally get my BA. I bailed out of high school in my junior year, got my GED and joined the Air Force at the ripe old age of 17. I married, had a child and was widowed in short order. Had no idea what to do with myself after that so I started going to school. I started out at secretarial school because…well, honestly I didn’t think to aspire any higher!

Found I enjoyed learning (as opposed to high school) and went back to college. Unfortunately I remarried another military man and we spent many years traveling up and down the west coast and having children. Was able to finish up my degree (Accounting) at University of Washington in 1998.

I was not going to walk at graduation because I had five children at home and a husband (now ex) who could not have cared less. But at the last minute I grabbed my cap and gown and off I went. We were seated alphabetically and I was seated between my two closest friends at school. It was a riot. 34 years old and we were acting like teenagers. I have no pictures of the event, but it is still a fun memory and I do keep in touch with those ladies. Thank you for reminding me of that and I wish you had been able to go to your graduation. Maybe someday you’ll get another opportunity? I promise I will bring an air horn if you do…