Yea for Jessica!

This past weekend I had the great good fortune to be able to attend our daughter Jessica's graduation from College of Lake County, just north of Chicago. I say good fortune because I feel so lucky to be able to globe trot pretty much whenever I want (for all who know me you know this year has been particularly unusual for me regarding travel). Given that I'm a practicing Japanese housewife for the most part this year and have already given up my paycheck for the year to participate in this crazy adventure, it doesn't take much justification for me to fly home (or anywhere else for that matter) as long as I can work when I get there to pay for it. So, when Jessica announced that she'd be done with her Transfer AA degree this spring and that she'd like to participate in the graduation ceremony I knew I wanted to be there. Too bad for Rex that he doesn't have the flexible lifestyle that I do, but I did offer to be the one who travels for work and him be my kept man. He made the choice. Now that he's seen how nice my life's been this year we'll see how it goes the next time:).

But I digress, back to Jessica. For those of you who don't have grown up children yet I'm here to tell you - you're in for a treat. I have to say that, although little babies are precious and toddlers are adorable and it's lots of fun watching your kids grow up, for me it all finally comes together and is most amazing when you see your child as an independent, responsible adult living a life they created for themselves. I had the great pleasure to see this first hand last weekend at Jessica's. Actually, this hasn't been an overnight transformation that just happened. She's been on this path the past few years since moving to Waukegan. It's just that I haven't had the opportunity to see her in her own environment; living, interacting with co-workers and peers, managing everyday life. You may call it predjudice or bias - but I think she's quite incredible.

3 years ago, somewhat discouraged with school & life in Seattle, Jessica seized the opportunity for change and moved to Waukegan. She immediately secured a good summer job that turned into a year round job (because they liked her so much), that turned into a promotion to Asst. Manager. Once she got her feet back under her she decided to return to school at night to finish her AA degree. And with a lot of hard work & diligence she's done it, and with a 4.0 no less! And all while working full time - see? incredible.

Jessica lives in a cute brick tudor cottage in an old neighborhood in Waukegan. The house is so cute with it's original mouldings, wood burning fireplace and fixtures - especially the indoor/outdoor milk box next to the back door. She's added to the atmosphere with some great antique/period furniture she's found at yard sales and lots of artwork. It's really a wonderful environment that is truly Jessica.

Friday night Jessica had a backyard graduation party and she had planned the whole thing herself. She had the food catered from her work, and as a surprise graduation gift they did it for free. Her friend and bar manager, Tony, ordered the drinks. Megan planned the decorations and aunt Jen brought desserts. I flew in that day so didn't do much more than help set up. That for me was a bit strange not to be in charge (again, those of you who know me know I like to throw a good party)and instead watch my capable daughter manage the whole thing - kinda felt like passing the torch. I am looking forward to her helping me later this summer with our 25th anniversay party as she is the expert party planner in the family. Jessica has a great group of friends out there and it was nice for me to get to meet and visit with them at her party, especially John Paul, who is so important to Jessica. The next night there was more visiting at her friend, Anna's, graduation party.

It will be interesting to see where the future takes Jessica. Based on her interests and abilities the possibilities are endless. She is definitely planning on pursuing a Bachelors and maybe even Masters degree in the near future, it's just where and when that have to be decided. I think it will be a bit difficult leaving this comfortable niche she's created for herself, but I have every confidence that she will be equally, if not even more successful, in all her future endeavors.

Way to go Jessica. Your dad & I are so proud of you!