All Grown Up

This past weekend, my younger brother James Cary, graduated from the Kansas City Art Institute with a focus in animation. In the picture above I'm with my two younger brothers, James and Brian. (My older brother wasn't able to come because of his finals in Boston. We missed you Matthew!!!)

The weekend was full of celebration and flavor as we all quickly realized that graduations at an art school are far from the typical boring processionals. The students were given full liberty to do whatever they wanted to their cap and gowns so a few students walked across the stage in tailored, fitted robes that resembled trendy little dresses, others with wacky hats that somehow contained the mortar board, others with cinched, belted waists, and one girl wore a different colored robe entirely. It was such fun to watch each student in their uniqueness receive their diploma. However, James and his adorably cute girlfriend, Maddy, went the more traditional route. Here they are on campus before the ceremony.

Here's the whole gang - my little brother Brian in his ever-present sunglasses and I'm too cool attitude; George; my sweet, sweet grandmother Norma; our graduate James; his girlfriend Maddy; my adoring grandfather Lee; my dad, poking his head in from the back; my mom; and then me. My aunt and uncle, Laura and Keith, were there too, but I think they were taking the picture.

After graduation, James and Maddy are headed off to conquer the world of art in Chicago. It is crazy to me that my little James is all grown up. Being away from home, it sometimes feels like things should just stay the way you left them - James still in high school making masterpieces in his room, ignoring all calls for dinner. But things change and little brothers grow up and become responsible, considerate, talented men and it is all you can do to stand back and be so proud.... and try not to cry. Love you James!