Turning the Page

It wasn't exactly a traditional graduation party.

Jacob, Justine, Grace and Jade graduated from Coeur d'Alene Charter Academy in May. 

This party happened a few months after the commencement on the eve of their leaving home in Plummer and becoming Vandals at the University of Idaho.

Oh, there was some "Pomp and Circumstance" with kids marching in to take their seats---until I hit the wrong button on my cell phone, cutting off the music.

And, yes, balloons and cake and gifts and well wishers. 

This party turned out to be something special as the four grads received manilla envelopes with several white pages inside. 

On those pages:  carefully constructed and brilliant words of wisdom, observations and gentle guidance written specifically for these four brown-skinned young adults as they set off into the world. 

The writer:  Adrian, a friend and colleague of Debbie's at the Food Bank.  Adrian, you definitely attained the "WOW" factor in crafting this wonderful message. 

Once envelopes were opened and pages organized, Jacob, Justine, Grace and Jade took turns reading the message. 

Audience members listened attentively.

It was truly a solemn and meaningful segment to an otherwise spontaneous and light-hearted celebration.

 The evening was topped off a gathering of horses from the pasture and a ride around the woods in the 4-wheeler (by a legally licensed driver) for some of the grads and their friend Talon.

That 4-wheeler excursion seemed appropriate as throughout the years that we have enjoyed watching the triplets plus one grow up, rides on the UTV and visits to the Lodgepole pasture were often on the agenda along with gatherings around the front deck. 

This morning I know it's a bittersweet day at the Laumatia and Stensgar homes in Plummer.  We who have reared kids and sent them off to college know the emotions and the tears. 

These four go off and join the rest of the incoming Vandals at the University of Idaho.  Once again, many in the audience could identify and reminisced as nearly half a dozen had also lived the U of I Vandal experience. 

It will be awesome for kids, sad for parents and exciting for all who love and admire Jacob, Justine, Grace and Jade to occasionally experience snippets of their lives filled with promise as the page turns into a brand new chapter.

We wish them well.  

And, finally, since I screwed it up last night----especially for our four beloved grads and brand-new Vandals, a full version of "Pomp and Circumstance," 2020 style.