5 Days Until Graduation

Wow! So much has happened since I last wrote. This semester, or should I say rather, these last 5 years have been rocky, a lot of ups and downs. So much in this semester alone has had me on the edge. But I completed ship selection and my last PRT here at the academy. I was separated and then re-admitted with the understanding that I pass my 1000 meter/40 minute swim before I graduate.

Let's start there...I swam my ass off. I gave up my spring break to stay here at school and work on my swim. Talk about 3 days of no fun swimming with Senior Chief. Then I had to regularly attend subsquad. I finally started testing. To make a long story short, I found out that I needed to pass my swim test before April 28 or I would go before another board. How about the Lord would have me to take that swim test at least 6 times until I finally passed on my last chance on April 26. 20.5 laps!!! I had a larger crowd cheering me on. I was the largest crowd that had gathered, I could not have asked for any more support. And tonight I got a chance to attend Ring Dance which I didn't do last night and had a hell of a night. the Deputy Commandant congratulated me, and he remembered me by name, without a name tag. Also saw Capt. White and Betty and they congratulated me as well. Then the day of the swim, I received countless congrats from a lot of people, it almost made the wait to take the test even better than passing it on time. I'm grateful for sincere care from my friends.

So, my roommate cleared everything out of the room today. I am 97% moved out, with an exception of just essentials that I need. During intercessionals, Rudy and I headed to Virginia Beach in search of a place to reside while we serve there. After much search and debate, we decided on a luxury apartment complex, which I was a bit nervous about at first, but now I am really excited. Excited to get on my own again and live in my own place. I've forgotten how that feels, having not lived on my own since July 2001. But I believe Rudy and I will enjoy being roommates and each other's company.

Graduation from the Naval Academy....5 days away. My God, it's almost unbelievable. But I must honestly say that I will this place. The last 5 years have brought many memories, many new relationships, new experiences, maturity, little wealth, several struggles, countless worries, but if I had to do all again.. I wouldn't hesitate. There is no way that I could be who I am without all that I have experienced these years, I THANK GOD FOR THEM.