The Best 99 Cents I Ever Spent

When I graduated from high school and started my college shopping 10 years ago, I never would have imagined that the 99 cent wooden lap desk I bought would be my smartest purchase not just for those next four years but would remain in continual use to this day.

That lap desk has held homework from Mount Union, La Roche and Kent State; thank you notes from all of my Avon Walks; Christmas cards; my best friend's wedding shower invitations; two MacBooks and now a Netbook; manicures; and DIY projects.

The once clean surface now features the remains from many of these tasks, including Sharpie marks, nail polish, hot glue and glitter.  It holds so many memories from the last 10 years and hopefully will remain a great investment into the future.

Who would have thought I would still be using my 99 cent Wal-Mart purchase 10 years later?

Happy Graduation, Boog!

“Congratulations!
Today is your day.
You're off to Great Places!
You're off and away!”
― Dr. Seuss, Oh, the Places You'll Go!

I'm not one for shout-outs in my blog but this one is necessary because my little sister is graduating from college tomorrow.

CONGRATULATIONS BOOG and the entire Class of 2012 at University of Mount Union!!!

I'm not one to express my feelings either in person or in my blog but I can honestly say I am very proud of my sister.  I may kid a lot but she has worked really hard to earn her degree.

So, it wouldn't be a graduation post without some advice for the graduate:

* Don't fret that you don't have a job the day of graduation.  These things take time.  Believe me.  The perfect job will come and you will be glad you waited.

* Dream big!  Anything is possible!  I never would have imagined that I would have a Master's the day I graduated from La Roche College.

* Accept failure.  It may happen but it makes you stronger.  I've had my share and it hasn't been easy but in the end I think I am a better person.

* Make the time to keep in touch and see college friends.  These are the friends that became family.  Unlike high school, these friends will be your forever friends.  Start your own beach weekend!

* Live life to the fullest.  This is a bittersweet time but it will get better.  Make the most of your twenties.  It will be over before you know it.  Work hard but play harder!  Live without regret!

* Learn the alma mater and fight song.  It's sad that your sister who didn't even graduate from Mount Union knows them off by heart.

 I love you Boog and will always be here for you!!