the best gift I've ever received...

I finally made it, finally did it, I'm graduated! I can't even begin to explain the relief I feel! But friends, my amazing graduation experience doesn't begin at the ceremony, but a couple days before...

Shortly after being surprised! 

For those who don't know, my brother and his wife live across the country from us. I haven't seen him since his wedding, a year and a half ago. That's a really long time for siblings and I've missed him like crazy! More than 3 months ago, when I asked them if they were flying out, the answer was unfortunately no. My brother was scheduled for a work business trip the very week of my graduation, I was crushed. "I've done all I can, there is no way to reschedule." I really was disappointed. I love my brother and I would have wanted nothing more then for him to be cheering me on in that audience. Fast forward to a week ago, June 22. My mom was working 12-5 and my dad had errands to run, so Lauren was at home alone all day. My dad left the house early that afternoon to shop. (The plan was for all of us to meet at a restaurant that evening.) Hours clicked by and my mom left work early. We arrived at the restaurant where my dad was already waiting for a table. After a few minutes of waiting, the hostess led us to a table set for 5. I didn't really think about it until my mom started asking my dad if he had planned for more people to be here. I sat there watching and listening for a few minutes when all of a sudden I felt a hand on my shoulder. I looked to my right and my brother and my sister in law were sitting next to me. My jaw dropped and I immediately started sobbing and shaking. I really couldn't believe it, I truly thought it was a dream. I dropped everything I had in my hands (including my purse and phone!) and hugged him, crying, for a good five minutes! All I remember saying was "Oh my gosh!" over and over. It was unbelievable! I was in shock and so thankful for the surprise! So my dream came true, my brother was there for me, cheering me on, it was priceless and better than anything I could ask for.

After the Graduation

The "Congrats" Hug 

My wonderful family, reunited!