Graduation!

Q. How many Social Workers does it take to change a light bulb?

A. Only one. But the light bulb has to want to change :)

Here I am at Western Michigan University's Masters of Social Work graduation ceremony! Three years of being at school every Monday and Wednesday night is OVER! It took the love and support of my family and friends (both in Ohio and Michigan) to arrive at this day, and it was more emotional and exciting than I thought it would be.

While I got to walk with my class tonight, I will be wrapping up a degree requirement this Fall at Calvin College (I can't get enough!). I'll be interning two days a week as a counselor at the college's Broene Counseling Center. I will also be leaving my job at that time. This will allow me to focus on this internship and of course baby! Mike and I are thankful that we can make this decision and recognize what a blessing it is.

Our Family

I'm not the only one who graduated today. Mike put in long hours helping around the house when I could not. He made dinners, proof-read papers, listened to practice presentations, and encouraged me when I just didn't think I could do it one more day. He was my biggest fan, therapist, friend, and coach along the way. Thank you Mike!

Grandma VA, Me, Amy

I'm not the first one in the family to graduate with a MSW. Mike's grandfather Nicholas VanAndel was also an MSW (University of Michigan) and worked with at risk and in need youth in the Grand Rapids area for much of his life. Grandpa Nick passed away this past year, and he is dearly missed. I will always be thankful for his support and interest in the work I was doing, and appreciate the special connection we share.

More of my cheering section: Mike, Shamu (Isn't the robe so flattering?!), Mark, David

Friends from Lansing: Dean, Angie, and their little guy Austin stopped by afterwards to say Congrats!

My brother in law, Scott and his wife Cindy, also came out to celebrate!