Graduation - Class of 2007

Yesterday was the Graduation Day for the American College of Sofia, Class of 2007! It was so fun to see the kids all dressed up, so excited about the day and all that lies ahead. No matter how many times I participate in graduation ceremonies, it never becomes old-hat; I always end up a bit choked up and overwhelmed with the emotion I feel for the kids walking across the stage. This year was no different.

This picture was taken right before I headed out to the pre-grad ceremonies. I know I'm a dork, but every year I love getting into my gown. To be honest, I especially love that I get to wear the gown that has the Masters degree distinction. It reminds me of my own accomplishments, which is always nice.

This is a picture of Hawa. Last year I was Hawa's English teacher and this year I guided her through the college admissions process. I'm not sure if I've ever blogged about her, but her story is amazing. To make a long story short, she grew up in Afghanistan under the Taliban, and had to be educated in secret, risking her life to do so. She has witnessed more tragedy and human cruelty than any 18-year-old (or 90 year-old, for that matter) should ever see in a lifetime, and still she smiles and has one of the most beautiful spirits I have ever met. She is truly an amazing young woman - an inspiration to me and many others. After being rejected from 9 universities, she just received notice a few weeks ago that she was accepted into Roger Williams in Rhode Island. I am so proud of this girl - remember her picture; someday you will see her on CNN.

Here are the Simeonova triplets - if you can't tell from this picture they are identical. Also, not visible in the picture is their brilliance. The are all 6.0 students (4.0 in U.S. GPA terms), practically perfect on their SAT's, and super sweet to boot. Next year they will all be attending university on a full ride to Bowdoin, Colby, and Vassar. Not bad.

Here's the class right before going on stage to receive their diplomas.

Here are the graduates! Notice the picture of Cyril and Methodius in the background - their big around these parts (think Cyrillic Alphabet).

I love this picture - it's always fun to see the kids throw their hats. Makes me smile.

These three are all special grads to me ... they are the students I taught IB English to last year (yes, our class was only three kids). From left to right, Seung Jin, Hawa, and Teo. Super special kids - I hope I always know them.

We still have a month left of school, but I suppose there is lots to do in that month. The movers are coming tomorrow to give us an estimate on shipping our things back to the states. Hopefully it won't be too much.

The baby is kicking away. Pete and I had another doctor's appointment on Tuesday and we got to see our cute little shmoo again - we're so excited to meet here in September!

Loves to you all!