I went to South Dakota last week to see my youngest daughter graduate from college with a Bachelor’s Degree in Science… a huge milestone in a person’s life that no one can ever take away or minimize. I do have to say congratulations to you, Meghan. I am so proud of your accomplishment.

I flew into Denver from SeaTac via a commuter flight from Port Angeles, WA on Kenmore Air. For a long trip I would definitely do that again since it ended up being cheaper than parking for a week, ferry fares, and gas to drive. Plus, it was much faster.

Returning to Colorado was odd in a sense. I have been gone over a year and it was a strange familiarity in being there again. Unfortunately I did not have enough time to visit anyone, but my main reason for being there was to drive up with my bro Rich to see graduation anyway. I will have to make a trip back specifically to see people and hang out for a few days.

It was a great trip and we lucked out in many ways. There were no travel problems, no weather issues, and no drama or bullshit. I was able to get a great deal at the Super 8 in Spearfish for all of us so that worked out very well. We ate some good food, went out for a beer or two, and got to see some cool sights.

Meghan took us to the wildlife sanctuary she volunteers at, and it is pretty impressive what they have going on there. There are animals there ranging from birds to lions, wolves to pigs. It is a cool place, and they do good work. Here is their website if you would like to take a look, buy a shirt, or maybe even send them a donation – http://spiritofthehillssanctuary.org/.

My parents drove up from Kansas and it was good to see them, but I have to say… those two are a handful. HAHAHA! It was good to see Rich again as well. We had a good time, and he let me stay at his house and got me to and from the airport. Meghan’s boyfriend Michael whipped up supper one night and did a fine job and I am glad we got to hang out.

I am proud of all of my daughters. They are all doing what they want to in their lives and enjoying themselves doing it, and that is what it is all about. I love you all!

Here is a link to a few photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/shawnflaherty/sets/72157639033232623/