Minneapolis 2026 - A Graduation and Family Time

 A graduation brought us together. Miraculously my nephews wife was able to secure tickets for the entire lot of us. The graduation ceremony was one of only a handful I've attended. Same goes with weddings, I haven't been to a lot of those either. The students were allowed to decorate their mortarboards, these they kept, the gowns had to be returned. Some wore stoles representing their heritage. Students performed, cheers and applause resounded as the graduates were recognized for specific achievements and as their names were called as they crossed the stage to receive their diplomas. We had another large family meal afterwards. To accommodate us they used a closed portion of the restaurant. 

Our time together was drawing to a close. We ended up back at the Airbnb for our last moments. It is difficult ot get us together. my brother, sister in law, niece and her family live about a mile from one another in Washington state. My eldest nephew and his family live in Minneapolis, The younger nephew currently lives in California, although he moves frequently so that is always subject to change, I live in Chicago and the graduate is going to college in Canada. When I moved to Chicago it was difficult to get accustomed to the idea of several generations living in close proximity to one another. Family gatherings of 20 or 30 people were completely foreign to me. There were hugs, some tears. There was a private conversation between my grand nephew and I as I lifted him up and held him one more time. 

These times are precious, full of moments and memories. They are the best of our times combining all the many aspects of the love of family.

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