A Night to Remember

I'm finished, done. I've washed my hands clean, and I walked.

Well, I took a shower, too, and then I walked — in my commencement ceremony. It was a memorable occasion, more so than I'd anticipated.

I didn't sleep much the night before. The truth is, I didn't sleep at all the night before. I turned in around 9 that morning, wanting to make sure I finished my marketing plan for a prospective employer — it's part of the interview process. Which meant I was screwed — no, not because of the interview, but because I'd end up wanting to sleep all day, except that I didn't, because I couldn't. I had commencement to get ready for. So, with only four hours of sleep, I dashed out the door to get my nails done and grab a bite to eat. Interesting, isn't it, that when it all came down, my priority was to get my nails done. Then I rushed home with only an hour and a half to spare, and that's where the shower came in. I got dressed as quickly as I could, and dashed out again with my girls in tow to meet my colleagues for the procession.

We promised to sit together, and we did.

It was so special, because my beloved husband and daughters were there, and they were all really proud of me. So much so that I'm teary-eyed just thinking about it. And Kate — who's suffered through it all with me — the late nights, the exhaustion, the cursing and the mad rush and panic — Kate, who since January 2007 shared in my every success along with her own — my college partner in every group assignment and now my lifelong friend — she was there, too, sitting with my daughters, because she's now officially part of the family. I only wish my son was there, but he is in New York making his own way.

I sat next to Nicole and Taren, who entertained me to the point where it hurt to laugh. They are both Chris's age — so vibrant, bright, beautiful and fun. Ketaki Pange, my assistantship partner, sat in front and just to the right of me. Together, we stood for pictures and waved to her family. They were immensely proud of Ketaki, and rightfully so, she's so brilliant. Laura and Danielle sat nearby, smiling and reserved. Sha Sha was there, too, as was Deana, both of whom I'd partnered with in ADV 860.

Oh, and the lovely Teresa Mastin graced us with her presence, adorned in her doctoral robes. We all shouted, "Dr. Mastin!" and waved like unruly little children, but we didn't care — it was our night, and everyone was in the best of spirits. Mr. Kolt was also present, as was Dr. Cole, who gave us all two thumbs' up and a hug at the end.

We text-messaged our families and friends who looked on above us. We joked and giggled like ... well, like school girls ... and every once in a while I'd look up to see my husband aiming his camera lens at my friends and me. I'd see Sachi blowing me a kiss. And there was Kate with the biggest, brightest smile, waving and brushing away a tear.

Dinner was fabulous at Dusty's — the best company and the most delicious food and a couple of glasses of pinot grigio (excellent by the way). And Kate and I went out on the town afterwards to dance, and she wouldn't let me pay for a thing. We met Nicole and Dominic there, and Nicole's awesome friends.

And then I fizzled out. My left ear began aching, and I wanted Dane to come and fetch me, which he did. He whisked me away, and tucked me in bed. Kate called me around 2 a.m. to let me know she was on her way home and to share with me the rest of the fun night. I drifted off, thinking how perfect it all was — my silly life filled with silly goodness and a family full of love and the best-ever friends. I didn't wake until 4 p.m. the following day, but when I did, it was with a smile on my face.

I'm still basking in the glow of my neat little accomplishment, thankful for the experience, thankful for the support and unconditional love of my family, and thankful for so many new friends.

Now, if I can only find a job. ...