Moving on

Check out more graduation photos here.

My son John graduated from LSU with a BS in Psychology on Friday. I have been so caught up in paying for it, managing the loans, and trying to get him out of school, I never took time to reflect on it.

I was happy for John, but I was surprised by the feeling of accomplishment I felt. Barbara and I have managed to get him through school. College graduates earn about double what a high school graduate makes. By earning a degree, John is in the top 25% of the US population. We have given him a pretty good start.

As I sat in the stands watching the procession of graduates walk across the platform, receive their degree, shake hands with the head of the university, pose for a photo, and walk down the stairs, I had the same feeling I get standing at the finish line of a marathon. The look of accomplishment on faces is written with ear to ear smiles. Such a pure vision of joy and I was privileged to see it.

John has passed another mile marker in his life. He will move from student to the bottom of the corporate ladder. New challenges beckon. I have little doubt that they will be met, struggled with, and conquered.

Here’s to accomplishment and may it become a habit.

Until the next time
John Strain

Party's over

The bad thing about good times is they have to end. It was nice having the family down here in Louisiana. It has been a long time since they were here. It was fun and we managed a little side trip to the French Quarter and a tour of some of the Katrina damage. Of course, we all gained a few pounds, but family gatherings are no time for diets.

By now, we are all back in our own corners of the world.

Here is a photo Marc snapped when we paused for a few drinks at Margaritaville. (click for a larger version).

Mom, Me, Becky, and Barbara

If you want to see more photos from our get-together, you can find them HERE

I hope your holiday was a nice one and let me wish you an early Merry Christmas.

Until the next time
John Strain