Graduation!

On Saturday, May 12th, Austin graduated with his Masters in Professional Counseling from Freed-Hardeman University! Austin began the program at Freed in the fall of 2009 following his graduation from Union with a double major in Christian Studies and Psychology. Knowing the value in getting finished with his degree as quickly as possible, Austin pushed through and completed the program in three years! Despite a setback of a semester due to needing Practicum hours, he did it! We couldn't be more thankful and excited! 

I feel like we've been saying this a lot, but this really marks the beginning of a new chapter in life for us! Austin will continue his work with Health Connect America and enjoy not having to go to class! We're praying through what is next for us and are excited to see what doors the Lord will open! 

We were so blessed to be joined by family and close friends to celebrate this wonderful event on Saturday.  We appreciate the effort that everyone made to be there! 

Following the ceremony in Henderson (complete with awesome piano music!), we enjoyed food and fellowship at our house. A special thanks to our next door neighbor, Dan, for doing a great job grilling hot dogs, hamburgers, chicken, tilapia and asparagus! We couldn't have done it without him. It was the first time that both sides of our family were together since our wedding. We talked, played the piano and guitar and sang together! It was wonderful.

Here are some pictures from the graduation and the party! Enjoy!

Austin receiving his graduate hood

Austin and his parents

Austin and his grandparents, Al and Nancy Zamora

Austin and his grandparents, Richard and Nancy Ward

Us with Elizabeth's Dad, Claude Rhea

Us with Elizabeth's Mom and Stepfather, Larry and Carolyn Nichols 

Wonderful friends! (L to R): Casey, Dustin, Austin, me, Jessie

The cake (made by Carolyn Nichols)- it was delicious!

Food

The guests arrive!

The tent! We were thankful that there was no rain!