Savannah graduated from high school this weekend.  It was a grand affair.  Stacey was with a tour group in Nashville for much of the week, which left me to prepare for our out-of-town guests.  I had a few finals, but was not terribly pressed for time.  I went to the student awards ceremony, which was predictably too long.  Mostly it was the same students over and over getting the awards.  Savannah did get some good awards (Art, National Honor Society) and high dollar scholarships (St. Anthony of Padua, QU Tuition Remission Grant). 

Savannah receives an award from Mr. Lillard, who finally pronounced her name correctly

Relatives from Indiana came pouring in: Phil and Rhonda Nicholas, Carolyn Nicholas, Jarrod Nicholas and his girlfriend Becky Fahnstock, and Shilo and John Whetstone.Graduation was Friday night, conveniently down the street at Culver-Stockton College.  The ceremony had two songs, three speeches, a video and the presentation of diplomas.  It was one of the best high school graduations I've ever been to.  Afterward we had a reception at our house.  A lot of people showed up.  We had a variety of snacks and drinks.

The Canton R-V High School Class of 2010.  Savannah is third from right in front row.	Presentation of the diploma.

After receiving her diploma, Savannah gave a carnation to family members.	Proud parents and the surprised graduate.

Saturday I took John and Phil fishing at Lowell's.  The fishing was great, but only for me.  I caught 10 bass, and no one else caught any in two rounds of the lake.  We went up to the catfish pond and John caught some bluegills.  The catfish never turned on, but at least the day wasn't a total loss.  Meanwhile, the ladies all went to Quincy shopping, except for Carolyn, who had gone back to Indiana.  She had brought me a pet vinegaroon, which I loved, of course.  Sunday I went to the QU graduation while everyone else went to Hannibal to the Mark Twain Cave. Phil and Rhonda headed home to Indiana.   I think it was the longest ceremony I've had to attend in my six years at QU.  I went to my student Brent's house afterward for his graduation party.  It was very nice to finally meet his family.  Brent is one of my proteges.  He has a job as a park ranger.  Someone asked what his duties are.  I said, "To hide pick-a-nick baskets from Boo Boo!" in my best Yogi Bear voice. 

We had big family breakfasts and dinners during the visit.  Gretchen was a big hit with almost everyone.  We took the kids down to see the river front and all the many Canton points of interest (ha ha).  Jarrod and John had brought wrist rockets (sling shots).  I got out mine and my ammo, set up cans in the back yard, and Monday morning we had target practice.  Sadly, everyone had to leave that day.  It was a lovely time, and I enjoyed it. 

Savannah walks Gretchen in the back yard.