Hey there, everyone!
I thought I’d take a moment to share a little about my college journey with the added fun as a single mom. Let me tell you, juggling homework and a toddler is like trying to dance on a tightrope—it's not easy! But don’t worry, I’m not here asking for a sympathy card or a parade. Let’s face it, life can sometimes be a puzzle with a few missing pieces for everyone, and that’s how we learn, right?
I’ve always tried to emphasize to my kids that while life can be tougher than a two-dollar steak, it’s those tricky bits that help us grow. There’ll be plenty of bumps along the road—and trust me, you’ll hear "no" more than a toddler in a candy store! But it’s all about how we respond to those challenges that really counts. So, let’s roll with the punches, learn from our stumbles, and keep moving forward. After all, who doesn’t love a good adventure?
Let me start with saying I hit the jackpot with my Grandma and Grandpa McQueen, who generously offered to babysit my son for the majority of the time while I navigated the wild world of college classes. You know how college schedules can be a rollercoaster ride? Some days I was up bright and early, and other days I was dragging myself in during the evening. Thankfully, Grandma swooped in like the superhero she was, ready to save the day. This is a memory I’ll hold close forever, and I know Kevin is just as grateful for his memories with them.
College turned out to be a delightful surprise! It wasn’t the stress-fest I imagined; in fact, it was a laid-back joyride! Sure, there were assignments to tackle and work to be done, but it felt more like an adventure than a chore. Even though HCC was just a two-year gig, every moment was packed with fun stories and unforgettable experiences. Who knew learning could be this much fun?
I just have to sneak in that I was still snapping photos on the side during all this excitement! Back in the day, social media wasn’t the powerhouse it is now, so I figured it was high time to get a business card to spread the word about me. You know, because who wouldn’t want a personalized little piece of paper with my name on it? It’s like my own tiny billboard!
One huge advantage I had over my classmates was my little cheerleader—an adorable blonde-haired, brown-eyed boy who kept his watchful eye on me, waiting to see if I would succeed or stumble. There was no way I was going to let him catch me failing! He was also the best study buddy I could ask for. I still chuckle at one of my favorite memories: cramming for my Art History and History of Photography finals. Picture this—I'm making notecards with beautiful artwork on one side and all the nitty-gritty details on the back. My little guy, with our trusty chihuahua CJ by his side, proudly held each card up like he was announcing the winner of a talent show. He might not have known if my answers were spot-on, but he never failed to give me a cheerful “Good job, Mom!”
Then, just when I thought all my hard work would pay off, an ice storm swooped in, and those finals were suddenly canceled! My heart sank! I know, I know, it sounds crazy to be disappointed about not taking them, but after all those study sessions, I was ready to crush them!
I was super fortunate to dive into a whirlwind of fun adventures at HCC! From vibrant art shows to galleries showcasing even some of my own creations, it felt like each event had its own spark. Oh, and let’s not forget the photography landscape trip—it was an absolute blast capturing those stunning views!
Seriously, it had so many firsts for me! I mean, I actually slept in a tent—yep, me! And then one morning we woke up to a buffalo gracing us with its presence. Trying to scratch a stubborn itch on its back. Talk about an unexpected wake-up call! One of my friends even called them "Booffalo," and let me tell you, it stuck! We captured most of our adventures on film. So when we got back, we dove into developing our own film, and I swear I can still smell that developer—like a mix of nostalgia and a mildly terrifying chemistry class! Those memories flood back: the stop baths that felt like a spa for our photos, the fixer that smelled worse than a gym sock, and the darkroom that was more like walking into a scene of a horror show than a creative space. And let’s not forget that revolving door! I half expected to get flung into a universe where all our shots were frame-worthy instead of disasters. Yet despite the chaos and questionable odors, I cherish those moments. They remind me of the friends we made and the crazy adventures we had—all wrapped in a whiff of developer!
Now, here’s the only bummer: being away from my son. It was my first time being away from him for that long, and boy, did I struggle! I knew he was safe and sound in good hands, but still, this mama's heart ached a bit. Nonetheless, the trip was unforgettable, and I got to share it with an amazing group of people. Thanks to social media, many of us are still connected, sharing laughs and memories. One of my favorite professors now teaches at my kids' high school, and they absolutely adore him! Isn’t it funny how small the world can be?
I’m super thankful for my time at HCC! I learned way more than just photography—I found an incredible family. From the moment I first stepped into class as a single mom, I was a bit nervous, worried I wouldn’t fit in. But everyone was so welcoming and totally made me feel at home!
The knowledge I gained is so invaluable. It’s truly astonishing how mastering the fundamentals feels like being handed a golden ticket to a vibrant amusement park of creativity! Each day is an exhilarating ride—who knew that capturing the perfect sunset could offer a kaleidoscope of options, each more breathtaking than the last?
So, to all my fellow photography enthusiasts: keep those cameras clicking and let your curiosity lead the way! Embrace the missteps and unexpected surprises, as they often become the heartwarming stories we treasure—because in the world of photography, every frame holds the potential for laughter and joy!
The end of my college journey wasn’t really an end; it was a beautiful beginning. It helped mark the start of my 20-year (and counting) adventure in photography, where every click of the shutter captured stories and emotions waiting to be told. From joyous weddings to the innocence of a newborn, I’ve made heartfelt connections and seen the world through a new lens.
It seems only right to add that graduation day was filled with emotions, but the most poignant moment came when my Grandma and Grandpa McQueen—who have always been my biggest supporters—handed me a special gift. It wasn’t just any present; it was a symbol of pride, encouragement, and love, embodying all the heartfelt sentiments we cherish in life.
As I opened the gift bag, I felt a wave of emotions—shock, tears of joy, and an overwhelming sense of gratitude. Attached to a disposable camera, which I recognized from my time working in the photo lab, was a handwritten note from my grandparents. They were gifting me the money to purchase my very first SLR digital camera. At the time, I only had an SLR film camera and a simple point-and-shoot digital camera, and they knew this new camera would help me pursue my photography dreams even further.
Grandma had such a wonderful sense of humor, especially when it came to gift-giving, so I was completely taken aback by her kindness. Just having them present at my graduation felt like a profound gift in itself. Their presence reminded me of their deep pride in me and the sacrifices they made, and that alone filled my heart with joy.
My life hasn’t always followed a traditional path. But, I believe that everything happens for a reason, and I wouldn’t change my journey for anything. Life has its challenges, and we all have to learn how to navigate through them. But in that moment, knowing I had made my grandparents proud was everything I could have ever wished for.
Though both of my grandparents have since passed, I find solace in the countless pictures I've taken of them over the years. Those memories will forever be cherished by my children and me, keeping their spirit alive in our hearts.
Always be ready to capture the moment—snap that picture and keep those memories close to your heart! There’s something truly special about holding on to the joyful times that shape our lives. Don’t let fear stop you from diving into the adventures meant just for you. Embrace the journey, and I promise you won’t regret a single memory you make along the way. Here’s to living fully and cherishing every smile!
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