Graduation Day!

My niece Jennie, her husband and kids, and Aunt Carroll (my sister).

Jennie and her parents (my sister and brother-in-law)

Jennie, Lynn & me

Jennie receiving her Doctorate in Anthropology (Alaska Native Studies) from University of Alaska, Fairbanks.

It was a wonderful day! Lynn and I arrived at the graduation site at about 12:00 noon to save seats for the family of 12. The ceremony began at 1:20. I thought it would be deadly, with 1100 degrees and certificates being awarded, but it wasn't. It had a distinctly Alaskan flavor. The recessional was led by Inupiaq dancers, and many of the graduates wore typical garb of some Alaska's native groups. The student speaker was a music major, and her "speech" was rendered on the clarinet, with a medley of songs chosen to express the moment. It was wonderful!

There was a cake and punch reception afterwards, and then family and friends gathered at Jennie and James' house for a barbecue. It was a happy day!