Graduation

Nick graduated on Friday night, May 30th. We went to the Rose Garden at Mohegan Park to take pictures beforehand but the roses were not yet in bloom. We posed in various formations within a gazebo trying to stay out of the sprinkling rain. The photographers (basically whomever wasn't in the picture) stood on lower ground and as a result the angles of the pictures are a little awkward. Even so, we got a few decent shots of Nick in his cap and gown.

The graduation ceremony was held at St. Patrick's Cathedral in Norwich. It was beautiful. Nick's fan club filled an entire pew (me, Bernie, Jack, Vivi, my mom, my dad and Arleen, Bernie's mom, Gary, Katie, Emma, and Emma's mom). Nick wore Ed's watch. Ed was always so proud of Nick. This occasion would have been no exception.

 

Jack and Vivi didn't really understand the importance of Nick's graduation. Vivi was busy throwing her doll on the floor for the woman behind us to pick up. Jack was actively trying to engage Katie in a game of "rock, paper, scissors, lizard, Spock." They both created piles of hymnals. Jack got a bloody nose half way through "Pomp and Circumstance." I seriously questioned my decision to bring them, but how could I not?

 

 

The program:

 



 

 

Here is Nick walking in to graduation:

 

There were originally fifty-five graduates in Nick's class. Mr. Lamoureux (one of Nick's favorite teachers) graduated from Saint Bernard's in 1962 and taught there for 46 years. He is retiring, and received an honorary diploma. He became the fifty-sixth member of the fixty-sixth graduating class.

 

Nick receiving his diploma:

 

Saint Bernard's honored the ten parents of graduates who were alumni themselves. Bernie was the youngest parent recognized by four years. Nick got to award Bernie with his medal:

 

We went outside for more pictures after the ceremony but the weather was not cooperative. I got this one quickly before it began to pour. 

 

My dad ran across the street in the downpour to capture this moment.

I was busy getting ready for graduation and putting Nick's party together so I never made plans for dinner following the ceremony. We attempted to go to Jack's Pizza but they didn't have room for a party of 11. We ended up at Fat Cat Bar & Grill.  They were very accommodating and it was a fun evening.

Congratulations, Nick!  We are very proud of you.  We can't wait to see what is next for you!