Moving and Graduation

The last several weeks have been busy and exciting for us. Justin finally finished four long years of medical school and graduated Cum Laude from The Ohio State University College of Medicine. Hurray! With graduation comes the start of the next chapter of our life: Residency! So with some sadness mixed with a heaping teaspoon of excitement, I worked my last day in OSU's ophthalmology department and then joined the ranks of the unemployed as we prepared to leave Columbus. Justin's parents came out for Justin's graduation and to help with the move, and Lance and Ashley came from DC for one last reunion in Columbus. It was great to have everyone together. Once the graduation celebrations were over, we packed up our apartment and headed West to Phoenix. Here are a bunch of pics from the adventure. Enjoy!

Me on my last day of work at my desk in OSU's ophthalmology department. I will miss my wonderful co-workers and the view of the Columbus skyline from our office. However, the time off right now is pretty nice.

Justin and Brutus spend one last time reminiscing before graduation about the time Brutus almost got tackled by the Ohio University mascot.

Justin looking dapper after the med school awards ceremony.

Justin starting embarking on his new career path in a golf cart. That's about all the vehicle you can afford after 4 years of medical school tuition and fees.

Lance and Justin posing, pre-MD.

Justin being hooded by Dr. Mary McIlroy, one of his mentors in pediatrics. Thanks to Heather for the great picture!

Justin's class had a great group of LDS guys, we'll miss them and their families.

The indomitable Anatomy Group-6 (minus Viren). Hours spent dissecting cadavers together during the first year of medical school forged a wonderful friendship among this diverse group. We got together every few months for dinners through all four years, which were always entertaining. We'll miss you Ian, Andrew, Stephanie and Viren!

It was fun to have Justin's parents in Columbus for the big day.

And Ashley too, of course.

Next up was the long haul to Arizona. The 22 foot long truck pulling our Toyota on a trailer was a real fuel-guzzler. Captain Planet would not have been pleased, but you have to do what you have to do.

We made a stop in Nauvoo for a day to visit the historic LDS sites. Justin's Dad served part of his mission in Nauvoo, so it was fun to revisit his old mission grounds and hear his stories.

On a wagon ride, Nauvoo style. It was HOT and humid. The Midwest gave us a memorable weather send off.

We learned to make rope, bread, and even weave rugs.

Justin behind the wheel of the big rig. That's his game face.

After many long days on the road we finally made it to Arizona!

My parents helped us unpack. My mom came over and helped out every morning until our house was liveable. Thanks Mom!

We're finally through wading through boxes, and all moved in. Now we're ready for visitors!