Buffalo, as well as Kalamazoo, was on the yearly loops I took through the country.
Buffalo is where I was born and lived until I left for Guatemala in 1981. I still consider it “home” – or at least one of my homes. I had to move quickly to get there because my niece, Sarah, was graduating from high school! (I also had to vacate my campsite at Markin Glen in Kalamazoo, as they only allow you to stay for two weeks, and my two weeks was up.)
I made camp at Evangola State Park, the closest state park to my brother and sister’s houses and I got ready for the Main Event.
We took seats on the old wooden folding chairs. I remember these chairs from my old church when I was growing up.
I wonder how many backsides have graced this chair. It must be millions – or at least hundreds of thousands.
Sarah getting her diploma.
And shaking hands.
And the tolling of the bell after the graduation.
Sarah, the graduate!
Sarah, the graduate and Katie the flautist.
We went out for dinner afterward to celebrate. How did I get to be so short? How did they get to be so beautiful?
We posed for a family photo, including my sister, Amy, her husband, Steve, and my brother, Craig, who I was “helping” get posed. Fun times!
Speaking of fun times, Sarah figured prominently in the fun. We celebrated her birthday.
I guess she’ll be traveling light!
I predict that she’ll be traveling far!
Speaking of celebrating Sarah, we had a pizza party over at Craig’s house.
Bocce’s Pizza, of course! Hmm..I wonder how much it would cost to get one delivered to me here in Kalamazoo?
Katie, Sarah and Nick played cards.
Bella, the new cat, really enjoyed her catnip!
And finally, one last birthday cake.
Congratulations, Sarah! It won’t be long now until we celebrate Katie’s graduation.