The Long and Winding Road...

has finally led me here! The day of my college graduation!

I started college at 18 but just didn't have the commitment or desire to apply myself or continue. I liked working and really enjoyed the paycheck! I had a work ethic, but didn't have the school ethic, so I stopped.

In the spring of 2003, I returned to school. I didn't return with a degree in mind, but decided I would take a few classes that I found interesting. The next semester, I took a few more that peaked my interest. This go around, I really liked school and found my school ethic that rivaled my work ethic.

So, I decided to focus and get a degree. My first plan was set and included the University of Utah. But with getting married and moving to Elko, I created a plan B. That plan included an Elementary Education degree from Great Basic College. With only 2 classes and my student teaching to go, I realized that I loved my job at Newmont and didn't want to risk losing it by quitting to do my student teaching. It was a difficult decision as I had worked so hard and was so close to my goal, but I create Plan C. This plan included Ashford University and a degree in Organizational Management. With only 2 classes left and a completion date of September 27 in the near future, I added a Human Resources specialization which meant another 4 classes and pushing my completion date back to December 13.

So, technically, I am still on the long and winding road until December 13, but was able to walk in my graduation ceremony in Clinton, IA on October 15, 2010.

There were times I thought I would never see this day. I am sure I wasn't the only one who wondered if I would ever finish my bachelors degree. But with a lot of hard work, determination and TONS of support from my husband, family and friends,

I DID IT!!!

My parents, sister Liz, Gabbie and Kiley

My parents are amazing people! They have believed in me and supported me when I didn't believe in myself. I could never had made it here without them. They can finally say that all 7 of their kids are college graduates!

Kiley has been my biggest supporter throughout this journey. He has supported me, beleived in me, encouraged me, and pushed me when I needed it. He has let me lock myself in the office to focus only on papers, quizzes, discussion posts or other tasks while he takes care of everything else. When I literally thought I could not write one more paper and had my mini breakdown, he was the one who reminded me of how far I had come and what I had already accomplished and that yes, I could write at least one more paper!

I love you honey and couldn't have done this without your love and support.

Oh, Gabbie.... the hopes and dreams I have for you! More than anything in the world, I want you to know that you are SO loved. I want you to dream big and know that you have everything you need inside yourself to achieve those dreams!

Dream BIG, as BIG as the ocean blue!

I have loved this journey, bumps and all. I cannot believe that it will soon be over and done. I won't know what to do with myself with no papers to write or something constantly hanging over my head that has a due date tied to it.

And if I am totally honest with myself, I have to admit that part of me will actually miss it.