After three years of hard work and, yes, "blood, sweat, and tears", Patrick graduated from Stetson University College of Law on Saturday, May 12th. Doug and Frank both flew into Orlando on Thursday and we showed them the ranch, including an air boat ride, on Friday before heading for St. Pete. The graduation was at 9 A.M. so we were up and out early on Saturday. We were thankful for a clear sunny day because it was held outside in the Plaza Mayor Courtyard, a large patio area. When they have to move indoors for rainy weather, the graduates are restricted to three guests! We had great seats in the shade because Doug and Frank went early with Pat and saved seats. The music for the processional and recessional was provided by the City of Dunedin Pipe Band, i.e. bagpipes!! It was so neat. The commencement address was very good and inspirational. Lt. Commander Nieva M.S. Brock Pat was awarded a JD/MBA dual-degree. By 10:30 A.M. it was over except for the picture-taking and celebrating! Then we all headed to lunch at the Red Mesa Mexican Restaurant. In addition to our family, Heather's parents, John and Debbie Dickson, and her sister, Laura McClain and son Bayer, attended the graduation and luncheon.
It surely was nice of Stetson to schedule graduation on the same weekend as Mother's Day! Can't remember the last time all our sons were with us on Mother's Day. It was really a special day for me! A big THANK YOU to my daughters-in-law, Tara and Dawna, for encouraging their husbands to make this trip. After church and lunch, it was back on the road to the Orlando airport to drop off Doug and Frank before heading back to the ranch.
Wonderful weekend! Congratulations Pat! Now it's more studying for the Bar Exam in July before joining the Alvarez Law Group in Tampa.
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| This diploma belongs to Heather & the kids too! |
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| Way to go Pat! |
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| Mom's Favorite Picture |
