We decided to let Harper open her birthday present a bit early - just so she could enjoy the anticipation of the upcoming event. All she wanted to do was to see the sharks at the Atlanta Aquarium. Initially, I said "no". Bennett said "yes". It didn't take much convincing, so GA - here we come!!

 

Not gonna lie - chemo is getting harder and harder. I know that I only have a few more treatments left, but I'm just so tired. I keeping thinking - "in a year from now..." and I"m excited for where I will be - but until then, it's rough. And, I know it's not just me - this has changed us all. And, while I know "this too shall pass", today I'm just really really tired.

 

Our Valedictorian and his Fan Club

 

 We knew it was coming, we've been preparing all year (even thought it's not been the year we originally planned, we pivoted). Graduation Day for Bennett Daniel Prose.

We celebrated a milestone - high school graduation from Sartell-St. Stephen High. You had it all - caps, gowns, proud smiles, and that feeling that time somehow moved simultaneously too fast and, yet, too slow.

We are endlessly proud of you. Full Stop.

We are proud of the work ethic that showed up on the days no one was watching. We are proud of the determination that carried you through challenges, and moments of doubt. But more than anything, we are proud of the person you are.

You lead with kindness. You listen. You notice the world beyond yourself. You recognize your privilege and choose to use it with intention, compassion, and a deep commitment to social justice. That matters. It always has - and it always will.

Your family, community, school, neighborhood and pod helped shape you, but you did the real work. You grew, you questioned, you learned, and you stood up for what you believe in. Watching you become a thoughtful, principled human has been one of the greatest joys of our lives.

And now - Harvard! (What, like it's hard??)  We are bursting with excitement for what’s ahead. New ideas, new challenges, new people, and a whole new chapter. We know you’re ready for it. And, we can't wait to see what comes next.

No matter how far you go or how big the world gets, know this: we are always here. Every step, every leap, every stumble. Dad, Harper and I are forever in your corner - cheering, loving, believing.

Congratulations, Monkey. The future is lucky to have you.

Always moving forward. Always with love. 💜

It's a good day to finish Highschool. 😭

 

The event of the week was Awards Ceremony/Scholarship Night. The whirlwind continues of the final month of high school for Bennett.  Bennett was recognized for his accomplishments academically and athletically. He was honored from several departments, and teachers and coaches shared their experiences with Bennett over the years. While we are so proud of him and all the trophies, it was a night that really highlighted how saturated our school is with opportunities and expert educators. We are so lucky that the kids have access to so many options, and teachers who know them, and are able to help guide them in the right direction. 

 

 

Just another Mother's Day in Morning🌟- my favorite holiday tradition

 

Couple more rounds of chemo in the books - and while I'm feeling pretty tired, it's going well. I will forever be grateful for this magic medicine. I have never looked at it like "poison". It has only felt like magic. My care continues to be incredible, the chair warm and the Mister doing everything he can to keep things running smoothly. Often times I think about where I will be one year from now, and I know it will be amazing - but so is today.