Another Milestone

Last week my granddaughter Alyssa graduated from Casa Robles High School. As a senior she really looked forward to all the traditions. With the end of the third semester all graduation requirements had been completed, and then all schools in the state of California closed for the rest of the year. CoVid 19 put a halt to all plans. There would be no prom, no parties, no walk across the stage to accept her diploma.

Alyssa visited her family in Orangevale. She has been staying in Turlock for the past couple of weeks since this pandemic stay at home orders. After picking up her cap & gown and diploma holder we made arrangements to photograph her at a park. Armed with my Fuji xt2 and 80mm f2.8, and Alyssa’s bright smile the photo shoot went smoothly. Many good images to choose from in the short time we had together. Of course the photographs engendered a typical self-critical reaction from the one being photographed. Lucas came along and found the nature trail full of insects to capture in his insect habitat.

The parents of Casa decided that some show of celebration was needed. Graduating seniors woke up to Congratulation signs planted on their front lawns. Then a flyer sent to families told of a parade being organized at the local mall that is now shut. So on Friday night my husband, myself, and Charlie parked in the shade and waited. What followed was a fun celebration for the seniors. Cars decorated by the seniors paraded around the perimeter. A DJ announced each name alphabetically. Online the DJ stopped most cars and asked the senior’s name, favorite teacher, and time to give a shout out. Unfortunately, this was not done for every senior who wanted it. It seemed that a good time was had by all.

While Alyssa was selecting her favorite images I spoke to her about her future plans. After spending many months away from her family I impressed upon her the benefits of accepting her mother’s offer to live home until her plans take shape. I am sad that she does not see this as a positive step for her future. I can only hope that she makes good decisions. As I am writing this post I had a chance to look over all 1400 digital images I have taken of Alyssa over the years. Wow. So much time I spent capturing her growth from baby to high school graduate. She has all the future in front of her! Good Luck!