I can’t believe that time has come again. I hate saying see ya later but I know it’s time for these lovelies to move on to bigger things. While I know I will see them again, the love and blessings I have gained from them makes me sad I won’t see them on a regular basis, like I do now. We just have to celebrate all these ladies have accomplished with a cap and gown shoot.

Can you tell these ladies are excited to be graduating? I love that these girls are always up for just having some fun and enjoying the moment.

Yes, we want to celebrate what they have achieved but I also wanted to celebrate where they are going. We’ve got some smart cookies in our group.

Miss Brooklyn is off to IUPUI next year. I will miss watching her play V’ball, she’s fierce but yet, always laughing at our group events. Every time I see her senior pics I think of Taylor Swift. Red suits you girl. Wear that confidence proudly.

Miss Josie is headed off to Ball State. I will miss her smile, bright personality and chats about…well anything. Josie is one the kindest women I know. Please keep that caring, kind spirit. The world needs more yellow ;-).

Indiana University is gaining one of the most motivated girls I know. Grace has the best style and is willing to do just about anything I ask…brave. I will miss our chats, your silly cat memes, your openness and self drive. You are going to drive yourself right to success girl. You’ve already set the ground work. Keep being bold, different and classy.

Miss Kaylee is onto Indiana University-South Bend. This smiley woman makes every thing brighter. I will miss watching her flip for what seems like miles, I don’t know how she does it. I will miss her authenticity, of course her happy personality and tenacity with any obstacle in her way. No one can stop a determined woman. You have a spirit that can’t be overcome. That spark in you will carry you to wonderful things.

Kate, well…there is just so much to brag on about Kate but my favorite things about her have nothing to do with her geniusness (is that even a word). This woman has worked her way right into Dartmouth College. She is Valedictorian of Concord Class of 2018, among other endless honors she wears. Above all of the hats she wears, Kate is compassionate, fun, and a servant. She deeply cares for others and has a very gentle spirit that makes everyone want to love her. I admire your prospective and maturity. You know what you want and you go for it. Keep bringing books to odd places, it has certainly worked out well for you so far ;-).

Miss Nikala is following God’s calling on her life. He wasn’t calling her to college at this point, so she is on to wear her servant hat. Nikala is passionate about helping others. She is honest, kind and easy to befriend. Everyone who knows her, loves her. Hopefully since you’re sticking around, I won’t have much to miss. Our chats are always my favorite. His light shines bright in you girl; keep that open heart. He’ll never steer you wrong.

Allyson, my lion. I just thought of this name…hope you like Ally. Miss Allyson is also off to IUPUI next year. She is passionate and brave. She co-founded a group called, “It Starts With Us” at Fairfield, which is an anti-bullying campaign. I love that Allyson doesn’t always go with the grain and isn’t afraid to get her hands dirty. I’ll miss your silliness and fun energy. Faith, passion and strength will drive you through anything…get it girl!

While the Street Team girls are usually the only ones to enjoy the perks of Cap and Gown Mini’s, I do let them bring a friend at a small fee. Allyson’s friends, of course, showed up to have some fun with us. This about sums up my time with them.

I played the mom card when the boys said they didn’t need an individual photo. They obliged, they love their mommas. Dylan is always a treat to spend time with. He, along with Allyson, are some of the key contributors to “It Starts With Us.” He is also headed off to Indiana University South Bend to play tennis.

Alex, also a Fairfield graduate, is taking a year off. You can’t not enjoy being around Alex. He is always smiling and is the life of the room.

This queen is Katie. She was also one of my Class of 2018 seniors. She is headed to Agnes Scott College. This smart and beautiful young lady is top 10 in her class and a joy to work with. She will surprise you around every corner. She is not afraid to be exactly who she is and she is so lovable. You will always see her loving on those she cares for. Katie, you have the sweetest heart and a fierce spirit. It’s a beautiful combo. You’ll be the best teacher EVER!

If you know this group, you know we had to have some fun…

I’m excited to see what these amazing and passionate, young women and men do. I have complete faith in our youth because of knowing amazing young people like these. Fly high graduates. Every failure will lead you closer to achievement. Dream big!