A Big Day For "A.A."

Today was a momentous day for my little sister. In addition to celebrating her 24th birthday, Amanda made what may have been her final drive to Sam Houston State University in Huntsville, to walk the stage.

We decked Norah out in her "Bearcat" t-shirt (compliments of AA--aka "Aunt Amanda") and matching orange bow. Our cheering section was comprised of Amanda's boyfriend, Trae, our brother, Jonathan, Amanda's good friend, Lisa, our folks, Norah and me. After the ceremony, we got a surprise when we ran into our cousin, Frances (aka Frankie), who had come along with her best friend, Christy, to watch Christy's sister graduate, so we took the opportunity for a photo op. (One of many... probably too many from Amanda's vantage point...but I think she'll be glad for the pictures one of these days)

It was a proud morning, watching my sister receive her diploma after a few years of hard work, dedication, and a lot dashboard time between B-CS and Huntsville. (And FYI, she did not eat it when she went up to receive her diploma) Norah wasn't too keen on sitting still and being quiet for the duration, but between the fact that Sam isn't too huge and it was a summer graduation, we got off pretty easy, time-wise.

Next stop for Amanda: Austin for grad school. I can't believe after 24 years together, we'll be living with over 100 miles between us! (Thankfully, her time at Sam Houston has proven that she's more than capable and willing to drive a few miles)