5 Years

We all miss you terribly, Dad. I wish you could see how much. 

10th Anniversary!

Today we celebrate our 10th wedding anniversary! Can't wait to see what wonderful surprises Jason has planned :)

We have so much to reflect on and be thankful for, an abnormal amount of "stuff" has happened to us/around us in those ten years and I'm so glad I've had Jason by my side throughout everything.

Graduation Weekend

This past weekend I was officially hooded and my doctoral degree was conferred at The University of Kansas. Jason, Nico, my mom, my brother Russell and his wife Renata were all able to be together for the weekend and attend all three ceremonies: the School of Education Convocation, the Doctoral Hooding Ceremony, and the University Commencement. On Friday night before all the ceremonies started we had a little graduation open house at a friends home, which was so generous of them to host and made for a really nice evening to be able to chat with our Lawrence friends and "family." We had a great time together and here are a few pictures that highlight the trip. 

This ring with a green stone is the one I had made in memory of my father. I wore it all weekend and just hope that he was able to see us celebrate and know that I accomplished this goal.

Much love, Dr. Diana!

Happy Second Birthday! (April 17)

Happy birthday to Nico! We had an exciting morning of opening birthday gifts at the house, her 2yr check up, and out to lunch for her favorite food at Ethos - mac n cheeze n peas... Plus a slice of orange cake! Yum! 

From her 2 yr old photo shoot a couple of weeks ago

Kitchen set, lots of puzzles, and beautiful pink roses special from daddy. 

Family selfie at lunch

Thank You

To all the family, friends, and colleagues that have supported me in some way during my quest for this degree, thank you so much. I never could have anticipated how life would change for me over this past while, but I am so glad that I had positive energy around me every step of the way. Even if you didn't think you supported me in any specific way, you probably did! Thank you!

Now let's have a celebration! If you're in Florida, come over this Saturday April 19th at our place (also Nico's 2nd birthday party and our housewarming). If you're in Kansas, Friday May 16th during graduation weekend! Message me if you need the details :)

Dr. Bjorkman Wade

My school journey was completed today (April 15, 2014) at my dissertation defense. Just a few quick wording changes on my paper but I got all signatures and everything is turned in. I am officially a PhD! 

University of Kansas

School of Education

Joseph R. Pearson Hall

The room all ready to go... PPT cued and baked goods from The Merc. 

Boy did I miss these two monkeys! This also marked my first night away from Nico (and first night in a bed all by myself for the whole night!) She's a snuggler :)

Diana's defense is scheduled!

Wish me luck, say a prayer, rub a rabbits foot for me, anything is appreciated! I am so excited and already so nervous!