The end of October was a busy time for us. Both of my “older” grandkids graduated from high school and the graduation ceremony was scheduled for October 23rd.
The grandkids live in a small town near London, Ontario. Not wanting to miss such a monumental moment in their lives, their dad (Paul), BJ, Zach, Roland and I hopped on a West Jet flight.
Any concerns about how an 11 month old might deal with such a trip were quickly put to rest. Little Zach turned out to be a great little traveler.
This was my first time visiting their quaint little town and I must admit to being quite impressed. I loved the rolling country side, dotted with red barns and cornfields. The explosion of autumn colour made me realize how much I was missing our own usual (but not this year) fall display here in Manitoba. I was glad to be able to get my fill.
| For the most part, the weather was cold and wet (seems to be the way of it this year no matter where we go) but that didn’t stop us from seeing the sights and checking out a London Mall. |  |
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The town itself is small but its high school (from which the kids were graduating) has a large catchment area that includes much of the surrounding communities. We were surprised to hear that the graduating class would number over 200.
Even more surprising was the turn out.
We left early for the ceremony… but not nearly early enough. By the time we arrived at the school, parking spots were at a premium, the place was packed.
As we tumbled out of our van and grabbed the stroller from the back for Zach, we were a bit surprised at the numbers and the continual stream of proud parents and children filing into the school.
We quickly joined the flow and let it lead us to an already packed gymnasium. Luckily we were able to grab the last few seats on the side bleachers near the back of the room.
Even after every seat was taken, people continued to enter, quickly filling any standing room and then over flowing back through the doors and into the hallway.
I wondered and marveled at the attendance. So much love and pride on so many faces. The ceremony hadn’t even begun and already I could feel the tears and the excitement.
As the lights lowered and all those in attendance rose for the singing of “Oh Canada”, I knew I was in for an emotional ride. There was just something so satisfying about seeing all of these people come together to partake in the celebration of promise for so many of our young people.
The support and pride emanating from those around us had a palpable nature, enveloping us with that sweetest of emotions.. hope … not only for those being acknowledged, but for the future of everyone there, young and old. I felt humbled and honoured to be a part of it.
Sitting through such a long ceremony was not the easiest of endeavours for wee Zach but he managed to hold it together to see his brother and sister receive their diplomas.
Way to go Zach!
Way to go Chris and Cynni!!!
Grandma is so proud.
As someone who lived in a small town for over a decade, and large cities for the rest of my life, I firmly believe small towns remain the backbone of this country.
And the area of Southern Ontario around London is among the most beautiful in the Province.
That’s the mall that Cuppa and I used to visit when we went from Sarnia to the big city for a day out.
Another milestone in life… next thing you know, it’ll be Zach up there accepting his diploma.
What a great report Colleen.
I have to admit that in my experience graduation from secondary school/high school was not such a big deal. We were focused on passing the national examinations in New Zealand.
What happens now for Chris and Cynni? Do they go onto university?
Chris is studying and hopes to work in a music producing studio and Cynni is planning on going into Nursing. :-)
I’m glad you got to attend this event while getting your fill of fall in my province! (London is about 2 hours south of me)
(I still haven’t got my flu shot and I’m hoping the first clinic for people like me with compromised health, is not too lined up tomorrow morning. I won’t line up for longer than 2 hours. I’ll go at 8:00 a.m. and see what it’s like. There is another one Sat. a.m. but I think that will be even more crowded!)
What a wonderful family experience for all of you. And congratulations to Cynni and Chris.
Right on Chris and Cynthia!! One of life’s true milestones….and the door opens to adulthood…..
Congratulations!!!!!
Great Auntie Di.
Congratulations to Chris and Cynni. I’m sure your presence made the occasion even better for them.