Congratulations, Class of 2009

Photo Courtesy of Jess Choi

It was a very emotional last night for the graduating Class of 2009 as they said their goodbyes as a class officially for the last time.

This marks the third straight year I have attended the graduation dinner dance and I saw something that I had never seen before -- in addition to the new dance moves by several of the graduates.

At the end of the dance, they formed a circle, linked arms around each other for a very special last moment. It was a very nice and fitting way to close out the night.

Of the graduating classes in the last few years, I think this is probably the closest of any of the classes I have been around. No knock on any of the other classes, but from top to bottom, this is a very closely knit group.

When you graduate, the thing everyone says is, "Don't worry, we'll have a reunion soon." Well, guess what? It's been 10 years since my class at St. Mary's graduated and we haven't had one.

But when this class says it, I truly believe it. The tears last night were from the heart and not forced. And it won't really hit until Monday when you walk by the 8th grade class room, only to find it empty.

Congratulations to all of the graduates for their hard work and we all wish them the best of luck in high school and in the future. We will miss you all.

And FYI...their last song was this...(my new favorite)