Milestones, Back to School Memories

Russ, Tara and Family


This is the second week for some of the grand kids going back to school, locally anyway. Then today is when the local university begins classes at UVU. How those memories of me starting back to school after being such a "late bloomer" flood my mind.

I was what was (graciously called)a "Non-traditional," student. That could be nicely said instead of a grandma going to college classes and seeking some kind of degree along the way. Well, it matters not whether one goes to college at 18 or 48, like I did. You are still the same age in the end whether you choose to go that route or not. Logic here.

Some of the best times I remember is rushing off to morning classes and toting my suitcase with wheels or a back pack or portable luggage cart. I remember my father gave me one on one of my trips to visit him in California. It came in quite handy. I had no qualms toting my heavy books around to lighten my load.

I would often go to the eatery there and have a simple breakfast and remember how delicious it tasted after a breather from classes. Scrambled eggs and sausage with wheat toast and orange juice. They had some fairly reasonable priced food for the students for which I was most grateful. The cafeteria was good too, and saved me from starvation many times. The feel of going to school and parking, and all that good stuff that comes with the territory are sweet memories. I marvel at the things I learned and still use better ways to retain information. I became more computer savvy. A real asset to a senior citizen now. LOL.

There were also opportunities for me to take Institute classes and the memory of taking a Book of Mormon class with Michael when he first went to UVSC (then) before his mission. Tana had just left on her mission October 1994 or was ready to leave when I began my class work there.

I am pleased that I have at least two grandchildren, K3 and Sydney starting classes at UVU, and one daughter, Tara starting their college careers this week. Education has always been important to me, and I can recall imprinting in my children's brains that if they got good grades they could get their education by scholarships, and grants, and they all did. Tara, now that she has her youngest in second grade, can focus on taking classes and graduate with a medical degree in nursing, her goal since way back when she was a mom at home.

Russ and his "girls."

Well, Tara, your day has finally come. Congratulations, Sweetheart. I am proud of you going back to college and the influence you have been on your children as a stay-at-home mom. You will absolutely love the challenge and how it stretches your mind and your ability to succeed in so many ways you never thought possilbe. You can do it. I know it! Time will fly before you now it. Good Luck.