On Graduation...

Over 2 1/2 years ago I applied for the Physical Therapist Assistant program at WITCC in Sioux City.  I knew this was what I wanted to do and then was the time (kind of like the now or never mentality), but I still had so many doubts: two more years seemed like a long time, two years of little to no hours at work, school with a little one at home, commuting, and the list went on and on.  I remember sitting through the first day of class, going over syllabi and hearing the expectations of us in this program for the next 2 years.  I think our professors tried scaring us all away.  I went home with knots in my stomach continuing to doubt my decision...but decided to give it all I had and see where I ended up.

Fast forward 2 years and I found myself walking across the stage at my graduation.  I can't believe how fast it went.  It was definitely an intense, demanding, and sometimes overwhelming couple years but I couldn't be happier with the choice I made and what I gained.  These two years brought many late nights at the library, too many lattes (who am I kidding, too many lattes...no such thing), hundreds of notecards, many new friendships, hard work, and an incredible support system!  

Friday night marked graduation from the PTA program and on to the next chapter.  The next 6 weeks will be spent studying endlessly for the PTA national board exams, which I will take on July 10.  Good thoughts and prayers are welcome as I have heard the "horror" stories from these lovely exams!

7 of the 11 of us who graduated from the program...we started with 24!

Walking at graduation

The two men in my life who put up with me the nights before exams, treated me to ice cream after exams, and encouraged me along the way!  Hearing Lincoln tell me "good job, Mommy" after graduation made my heart melt.  Love these boys!

 My amazing parents who supported me along the way and always helping out when I needed a break, needed Lincoln picked up at daycare, and needed to hear those simple words of encouragement!

 My sisters and I...so lucky to have them and so happy they shared this night with me!

 He was a trooper!