Nathan's Graduation Weekend and visit with Grandpa Mark

This weekend Nathan graduated from George Washington University with his Masters in Engineering Management. He has one more semester to go before he is completely done, but the University holds graduation in May so we celebrated this weekend. Ever since I met Nathan in 2005, he has talked about wanting to go back to school. I am really proud of him for accomplishing this big goal of his, and for all of his hard work. He started the program last March while working full-time and he will finish in early August. We joked that he should go back for a Ph D in October since we shouldn't have too much going on then -:).

Nathan's dad came to town for graduation, and it was so nice to spend the weekend with him. Graduation was held on the National Mall in DC, and it was a beautiful day for the event. Mark, Nathan, Caleb, and I headed downtown on Sunday morning for the big day. This was Caleb's first time riding the metro, and he enjoyed the train and people watching downtown. There was 25,000 people at the event to watch the proud graduates. The University gave honorary degrees to a few prominent (and one ethically questionable) international figures, and then the commencement address was given by Brian Williams from NBC Nightly news.  It was interesting...not quite what I expected for a commencement speech, but a lot of the crowd seemed to enjoy it. After the ceremony we found the proud graduate and took lots of pictures -:) Congratulations Nathan, I love you very much and I am very proud of you!

After graduation, we went to Ted's Montana grill for some delicious bison and beef burgers. Caleb was a great sport and had a fun day downtown, riding the train, and napping in the shade....sounds like a perfect day to me -:).

Grandpa Mark loved on Caleb a lot this weekend. They had a fun playing outside on the swing, in the grass, and with some new toys that grandpa brought along.

Caleb is a happy boy, and he is very expressive. I just love the faces he makes!

On the last day, Grandpa Mark put Caleb to work and had him till up our garden. After a few hand and mouthfuls of dirt, we were good to go! Caleb's new nickname is coal miner Caleb, since had brown spots all over his face, eyes, hands, and feet. It was cute!

The next morning, Mark and Nathan left very early to drive back to Illinois. Nathan and his dad have  special bond, and it was a good time for a road trip. Nathan got to spend a couple of days at home with his mom and dog Ned, and to visit his grandma. It is so restful where Nathan grew up, and I know he is enjoying being at home. I wish Caleb and I could have gone with them. Thank you Grandpa Mark for the great visit this weekend, you can come back and do our gardening anytime! We love you -:).