Mike moves in at NAU

Room with a view

Well the day has finally arrived for Mike to move in at NAU and begin his college career. I am very proud, excited, happy and a bit nervous over the whole thing. Mike is thrilled to be off and on his own. He is looking forward to new challenges, meeting new friends and experiencing the freedom that only life at college can provide.

His room is a pretty typical dorm room. It comes with a refrigerator/freezer which is nice and there is plenty of storage for his clothes and other items. He has a great view out the window and the weather in Flagstaff is just so much nicer than the Valley. It was a rather warm day there today, in the 80s, and gets down to the 50s at night. I think Mike is really going to like it there.

Mike, my wish for you never changes - I want you to be happy, find a passion and pursue it, be kind to others, enjoy life, take advantage of the opportunities given to you and remember that no matter what I love you and want only the best for you. Love, Mom.

Thirteen years fly by

September 1998 - Geneva, IL

May 2011 - Gilbert, AZ

I remember that day in September of '98 like it was yesterday. It feels like it was yesterday or maybe last week. On that day I wasn't thinking 13 years into the future and Mike graduating from High School. We had all of elementary and junior high to get through first and well HS was just some distant thing that didn't even cross my mind. Mike loved school from the start, well maybe he didn't love the getting up for school or actually going to school part - at least not all the time, but he loved the adventure and learning part. Mike has always been a quick learner and good student and that hasn't changed, and I am hoping it doesn't as he faces his college years.

College years! I cannot believe those words are coming out of my mouth. In some ways it just doesn't seem possible that he is 18 and leaving for college in a couple months. In other ways OMG! Really? Is it finally time? TGITime! I am hoping I am not alone when I say that my feelings change daily from being thrilled to death with him moving on, to being scared to death that I haven't prepared him properly for all he will have to deal with. I hope I have taught him to make good choices, to treat others with kindness, to do his best always, to learn from his mistakes, to take the road less traveled and enjoy the journey! I am confident Mike will excel in whatever he chooses to do. I am proud of Mike and look forward to this next phase of his life.