Graduation, At Last!

This journey began nearly four years ago. Back in the spring of 2006 I began contemplating pursuing graduate studies. After looking into various programs, I chose to apply to the SFU Field Programs Graduate Studies. The first two years I spent with a cohort in Abbotsford in a graduate diploma program called "Exploring Mathematical Literacy". After completing those two years, I debated whether or not to continue on with the Masters or just to graduate with a diploma. So much had happened, I had Adrianna and life had been forever altered. It was a hard decision, because I knew I couldn't go back to work, complete a masters, and take care of Adrianna (and Harvie, the house, etc). So I looked into a leave of absence from work and if that got approved (and I got accepted into the program) then I really knew this was my path to take. So it was, that in May of 2009 I began to purse my Masters of Education in Educational Practice (what a mouthful that is!). And, finally the end is here. After much $$$ and hard work, the graduation day came.

Joining the 4 step graduation program...

But before the gown return...the processional. It was a really long, but amazing experience!

Walking right passed Harvie during the processional...not planned at all! We didn't take Adrianna since it would be a long event for a busy toddler to attend.

After walking the stage, a picture moment with Shawn. We started the same graduate diploma back in 2006, took the same Master's program, but in different cohorts, yet stayed competitive all throughout the four years. I couldn't have had a better competitor and colleague in this journey.

And finally, my biggest supported and encourager through these last four years. When it all was too much for me, when I didn't believe in myself, when I needed someone to proofread and edit countless pages of teacher-research, when I needed someone to listen to my ideas, when I needed someone to build a model bridge, Harvie was there for me and with me. I couldn't have done this without Harvie. This degree is his as much as it is mine. Thank you!

And this is how I really feel! Yes, a little bit silly, crazy, and excited, but what more can you ask after so much reflective critical thought?

Where to go from here? That's too much for me to think about now. I am looking forward to going back to work in September (well, it all starts already in July...whoever thinks teachers have the summer off doesn't really know the profession first hand). I am teaching grade 3 this coming year, after six years of teaching grade two. I did teach one year of grade three prior to MEI when I first started teaching. I am sure there will be challenges, but I know that the classroom is the place I need to be next year. I feel incredibly blessed to have a job that I love in a profession that I know God has called me for. He has and will continue to pave the way for me in journey as a learner and a teacher. I look forward to the possibilities that lie ahead. And, just like Harvie's comment his graduation card for me, "Oh the places you'll go!" (Dr. Seuss). I rest in God's promise that he will take me to the places I need to go.