Absolutely Making The Grade

This cutie is Melissa; my Step Daughter. The one you hear me mention so often. Neither of us like the word, 'step,' that is used to describe relationships like ours. Does anyone know the genesis of that title, Step Mother/Step Daughter? Icky..... We simply don't use it. Did away with it. I refer to her as my daughter; my nick name for her is, Step Headed Red Child, a play on the Red Headed Step Child business. She calls me, WSM or Wicca'd Step Mother, as a play on the witchy rap most Step mothers get in fairy tales. I love the play on words! Pretty fun.

If you are dear to me, most likely you'll acquire a nick name. Not unlike The Queen proffering a royal title on you. It'll always be something nice, something you'll like, and you won't mind that I call you that. It's my way of helping you remember your singular importance to me.

Last night, Michael and I drove up to Pittsburgh, except if you live here, you say, "Drove down to the City," although how one can arrive 'down' at a point that geographically rests north, is still a mystery. But, I digress...

We battled the rush hours traffic and the torrents of rain to meet Melissa, Zach, and Opie at Point Park University. Where we applauded her induction into the Alpha Chi Society. How marvelous! Like many talented people, Molly, (that's her other nick name given by her Pittsburgher friends, Molly Mac. Hmm, maybe she's in the witness protection program and I didn't know...") hasn't had many moments standing victoriously in the spot light. Moments when her achievements and energy have been acknowledged. Moments that she deserves. So, last night she had a rare few and I say, "Wonderful!"
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For those who aren't familiar with Alpha Chi, this honor society was started in 1922. It has a long history of scholastic excellence and service. At each college, each year, a handful of students are inducted. Each receives a medal and pin, and adds their signature to the university's registry; combining their unique signature to the history of those who have come before. What a meaningful tradition.

A consistently high grade point average is required to be a member of Alpha Chi. And, for Melissa who is returning to college a second time, it's a public acknowledgement of her willingness to try again. To do better now that she knows better. To effectively invest herself in a process. To grow through a better understanding of what is required to be successful. And, now everyone knows how much you've accomplished, My Daughter! Huzzah!!

Isn't it wonderful to see someone you care about reach such a significant mile stone? Witness them get the recognition they deserve? Share the moment with them? Life doesn't get much better, I say...

Of course, if you think I'm proud, that in no way begins to cover the feelings Michael has for his daughter. But, then again the bond between daughters and their dads defies easy description. Let's just say, he is quite pleased. Melissa, we are very proud of you!

Enjoy your weekend. Ours got off to a great start last night with honors, energy acknowledged, wisdom gained, and bright blessings in laughter and loved shared.

Hope you find the very same.

Namaste' Till Next Time,
Holly aka WSM