Anna Grows

 High School is officially in the rearview mirror as Anna sets her sights on starting college in the fall.  She was excited to attend Virginia Commonwealth University (VCU) summer orientation on June 24-25 in Richmond, Virginia.  It was two days full of information for both Anna and her parents.  As an added bonus, Anna got to spend the night in a dorm and meet her roommate for the fall.  Somehow there are no people pictures from the trip, but rather some of campus. Joe and Theresa were marveling at how much college has changed since they went to college back in the 1900s. For example, In order to find a roommate, Anna filled out a detailed on-line questionnaire and then was able to look at other potential roommates (sort of like online dating).  Potential candidates were able to message each other to see if it may be a fit.  Theresa and Joe both seem to recall it was a roommate lottery. The dining options are robust with every sort of food you can think of, including a sushi bar.  Bot

Andrew, James, Anna, Carly, Katy & Luke As the days wound down towards graduation, Anna's high school rightfully recognized that the seniors are checked out.  In an effort to do one final "educational" thing before graduation, they offer the Wings program.  This is meant to be a capstone event and basically students can pick a project or internship/shadowing experience over a two-week period.  The requirement is that they have to get a sponsor, get approval from a mysterious, nameless/faceless, faculty committee and do a presentation on the project upon completion.  After much consideration and a few phone calls, Anna decided to shadow Aunt Lucy for her final project for a week.  This turned into a bonus early graduation celebration thanks to her cousin James.  Today's guest blogger, writing about her "Wings" experience, is Anna. Hello esteemed family, friends, and friends of friends. Long time no see! As you just read, I can confirm that the seniors are

  Anna is officially a James Madison High School graduate!  The ceremony for the 537 graduates was held Tuesday, June 4 at DAR Constitution Hall in DC.  Grandma and Grandpa made the trip from Ohio along with Uncle Time and Cousin Aidyn for the festivities.  It was a whirlwind week with lots of celebrations, rehearsals, and final activities for school.  Check out the  Graduation Photos .  Some of the most memorable moments included: Grandma and Grandpa making their first visit (and flight) since 2018. Hosting a small celebration for Anna on Monday, June 5 after the Ohio family arrived.  The party was to start at 5 PM.  On Sunday night at 10 PM was the realization that Anna was supposed to sing with the choir on Monday at 6 PM for the baccalaureate ceremony in Vienna.  This resulted in Anna missing part of her own party as she did not return home until 7:25. On the plus side, it was great to see other friends and neighbors, including Ms. Be and Mr. Fancy of Anna's daycare days!  The