Here it is, me in my cap and gown, with the almost-diploma letter I received during the ceremony. The stole is for graduating with High Honors, which should help me get into a good school as I move forward with my education.

Finally, I can say I'm a college graduate. Maybe a community college, but that's all I need to start out with.

It was a gorgeous day for the ceremony, and really, the weather in the States was pretty much perfect my whole trip. The grass, the trees, the water... it was absolutely beautiful.

It's good to be done with school for now. I have yet to make my decisions abot the next step, but the important thing is I know there is a next step and that I need to make it. For now, though, it's nice taking a break and recharging after the last semester.

Also, when I got back, I found out that I've been named my Command's Junior Sailor of the Quarter, which was more exciting news to go with my college degree. First time in my career, and it's nice to feel appreciated. Overall, it means a lot more at this command than it did at my last, anyway, since politics are not the biggest thing here (though I don't doubt they still play a part... just that this time, those pulling their political weight for me are not the manipulative folks who did or could have done so at my last command...).

For now, it's time for bed. Soon, more pictures from the rest of my trip.