The Geiser clan, minus Jerry and girls and Dad, travelled to Murfreesboro, TN this past weekend to celebrate the graduation of Miss Sarah Valdez. It seems like just yesterday when I paced my living room floor to Whitney Houston songs to put the baby Sarah to sleep. High School graduation is a big deal, for after that big day, the 18 year olds must really decide what they are going to do with the rest of their lives. It's exciting and scary all at the same time. I know that feeling and although it was many years ago, it feels like yesterday. I know those feelings combined with the feelings of fear and hope that our babies will make the right choices. That the bumps in the road will help them to grow into better people rather than becoming a road block in life. That the lessons we have learned in our lives will help our children to avoid some of our disappointments and mistakes.
I'm sure that Miss Sarah has experienced loss, pain, fear of the unknown and lots of self-doubt. She is a beautiful girl, with an amazing heart but more importantly she has an older sister that truely loves her and looks out for her. She has a baby brother who adores her and hangs out with her boyfriend. I mean she was sick and couldn't go on their movie date so Zach went with Derrick since Sarah couldn't go. That's brotherly love right there. She has an amazing Mother and Father who support her and who have given her a strong foundation for success. I know that in a few months, she will venture out into the world as a college student, living on her own for the first time. It's an amazing time and she will make new friends and have many wonderful experiences.
Sarah, you and all of my "cousins" hold a special place in my heart. You were the cutest little girl with beautiful curly hair, sparkly eyes and a sassy attitude that no one could suppress. You have so much to look forward to in life. Don't limit yourself, don't let the inevitable self-doubt and fear hold you back and don't ever doubt that you have the ability to get everything you want in life. Listen to your heart and when in doubt call your Mom, your sister, your cousins or me. Talk through those moments when you feel like throwing in the towel. When you are so frustrated, you could cry--don't go through it alone my dear. We have seen you grow from a spunky little girl to a beautful woman, the rest is up to you, but we are always here to hold your hand and to carry you when you get tired. That's what family is all about. I love you and congratulations.
