Tyler's Big Day!

What a wonderful trip we had to Arizona! We had a great time with everyone and we were able to celebrate Tyler's graduation from Arizona State University!! Yay Tyler! The only bad thing about the trip was that it was way too short. It started off by arriving at the airport late on Wednesday evening-and being greeted by the two grandma's (moms) at our gate. What a treat! We were picked up by the grandpa's (dads) at the curb and all rode together to Mesa. Unfortunately for Grandma Terri, who volunteered to take Grant for the night, all of this excitement woke Grant up and he was full of energy most of that night! We are so grateful to Aunt Donna to allow us to stay with her and for her wonderful meals! We had a delicious breakfast and were able to relax that next morning before going off to Tempe for Ty's graduation. At noon, we carpooled to the University Club on ASU's campus to a very nice catered lunch and a more intimate gathering of Tyler's department (fellow students, faculty, and family members). He received his white coat and a pinata (sp?), as requested, and he gave a wonderful speech. After that we went to the Graduate Level Graduation where we entertained ourselves (before the ceremony of course!) by chatting, reading the interesting dissertation choices, and playing I-Spy in the Wells Fargo Arena. When it came time for Tyler to walk and receive his honors, we were the loudest cheering section ever! After the ceremony, we continued our celebrating by having dinner at Texas Roadhouse:) It was just as good as we remembered! Our trip just went by so fast because we had to say good-bye to Mom and Dad Oakes that night who had a very early plane the next morning. The next day, we played lot's of games, watched Grant play and eat, and had the opportunity to go to Grandma Gerry's where were visited with Grandma, Jack and Pauline-who brought us all ice cream sundaes! Grant was getting a little toasty outside (note the rosy cheeks and looks of confusion!) and so we had to put cold water on his head, arms, and legs! We loved visiting and we had so much fun-we almost missed our flights. We just want to thank everyone who came and made this such a special occasion and supported Tyler. It was so wonderful of Donna to allow us to stay in her home, give up her room, make us delicious food, and playing games! We also want to congratulate the other graduates in the family-Dan, Sharee, and Tyson! Hip Hip Hooray! We are so proud of you all and wish we could be there to celebrate with you too! Love to all of our family and friends~