Graduation Day!

Nizhoni,

This is daddy here, writing to tell you how proud mom and me and all of these people reading this blog are of you.

You are crossing the stage this evening and will become a graduate of Albuquerque High School. You will soon enter into the next chapter in your education at Colorado University-Boulder. Ayani' (buffalo) is a sacred animal and as the mascot of CU-Boulder, you are in good hands. Thanks for not choosing a school too far away.

I am really proud of who you are as a young Dine' woman, a person with high morals and faith. You are a go-getter, and have excelled in many arenas during these last years. I expect even more flowers to blossom in these years ahead.

But really? You are already graduating? Why so soon?

You arrived 2 months into Shannon and me moving across the country to start life in New Mexico. I was a resident and would make sure to have you and momma up for dinner each evening on my 30 hour shifts, knowing that it would brighten all of our days.

I love you Nizhoni. Ayo'nishnii. 

Continue to walk that beautiful path toward Allah/Creator in humility, with gratitude, and full of joy.

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For everyone who has helped raise our daughter, as it takes a village and you are that village, a huge hug to each of you. And if you are also celebrating a graduate this season, I hope Shannon and I have been that same support for your child's journey.

p.s. I think back to another blog I once curated of my 1st experiences with you. Sorry in advance for any embarrassment these pics might cause. Not really - they are worth sharing.

https://nizhonirose.blogspot.com/2008/