St. Louis, knitting, genealogies

I went to St. Louis for a site visit about two weeks ago. I interviewed at two schools and Simon and I looked for an apartment. Overall the trip excited me even more about moving there. St. Louis has these incredible neighborhoods that have their own vibe and flavor. We fell in love with an apartment in Lafayette Square. It is by a huge park and has its own restaurant/eclectic shops section. It's beautiful, hopefully when I go back in June I can take some better pictures so everyone can see it.
Amidst trying to do my pre-institute work, I have also started to do a family genealogy. Ok so I know I am a big dork, but there is something that excites me about learning about my family's past. I love putting all the puzzle pieces together and making sure they fit correctly. Maybe it's the research journalist in me, maybe it's the fact that I am the ultimate procrastinator, not sure but I love it. If you want to know more ask me, and I will tell you about my great great grandmother, Belle.
I am also trying to finish a knitting project for a baby that is on the way in July..love ya Anna. I need to put more time into that or it might potentially be done a few months after the new addition is born.

graduation

On Saturday despite the monsoon in the morning I graduated from UNL with two degrees. A bachelor of arts in Spanish and a bachelor of journalism in news-editorial. I was the last person to walk into the Bob Devaney Center because of my name change, which made it very easy for my parents and simon to find me but I didn't find them until towards the end when my mom decided to leave early.
The two broadcasting kids who were sitting beside me were wasted which made the whole thing absolutely hilarious. Example: the guy beside me got up two times to try and go get nachos...both times he did not succeed. They also tried to leave before the ceremony was over but apparently officials stopped them and told them they would take away their diplomas if they left.
My party was great. I loved having all my family there and all the friends who stopped by were amazing. Basically I felt really loved and celebrated. Highlight of my grad party was three year old Maci handing me a pile of toothpicks and saying, "Here...for your birthday." She is a cutie.

I really feel like I am starting a new phase of my life. It feels a little weird but mostly exciting. I can't wait to see my school and meet my kids next year. But before all that happens I have a ton of preparation to do , but at least now I am working towards a solid goal where I know I will be doing some good. Look for graduation pics on facebook:)