Accomplishments

Growing up, I think we all strive for acceptance in those we love especially from our parents.   For me, I loved seeing their eyes smile.   

I tried not to disappoint them.  Sometimes as a kid and as an adult, I would do things just to please them.  

Who hasn't???

Recently, I obtained my professional license as a California State Registered Landscape Architect.  I passed an arduous six section exam that has consumed my life for many years now.  There were many times I felt like giving up but I am glad I did not and kept striving forward.  When I started this exam, I did it more for my Dad and it wasn't until I realized that I wanted it more for me was when it became more of a mission to finish.

My mother told me again today that she was proud of my accomplishment times two.  She told me she knew my Dad was so proud of me.  My only regret is that I was not able to have passed this sooner before my Dad passed away 11 months ago today.  

I could imagine my Dad's eyes smiling with such a proud heart.  He would clasp his hands together back and forth with a big grin on his face.  Then he would walk over to me, hug me and grab my wrist.  He would hold on to my wrist smiling at me.  

I wish he was holding on to my wrist now.  

I wish I could have told him that I finally did it.  But I know in my heart that he knows I have accomplished this goal I set out to achieve.  I know my Dad is so proud of me.

Over the past week, I have had many friends and coworkers cheer me on and give me positive encouragement.  I am finally done and it feels so good.

Everyday I hold my head high and strive for the accomplishments that make me proud.  

I finally passed this milestone and I am ready to start the next chapter of my life.

Whatever it is, I am going to have fun doing it.