On Sunday, May 31, 2015, Bob and I drove to Kent to celebrate Nikki’s graduation from medical school (a much anticipated detour off my usual photo walking trail). The celebration, a fantastic brunch hosted by Nikki’s parents, was held at the Pufferbelly, once an old RR station and now a superb place for lunch, brunch, and special celebrations! Eight years ago (I think it was) we attended Nikki’s first graduation when she, Bryan (at that time her future husband), and their classmates graduated from Kent Roosevelt High School. Since that day, she has accumulated quite a few degrees. Although she told me it wasn’t because she was all that crazy about school, once she started down that trail she just-kept-on-going until she reached her destination, a medical school degree. Congratulations, Nikki! You set a challenging goal, and your dedication, single-mindedness, and perseverance have carried you through. Along the way, in addition to diplomas and degrees, you have also accumulated a wonderful (No, I’m not biased) husband, a dog, and, for the time being, two apartments, one in Toledo and another in New York City.
Here are a few memories from your celebration (Click on a picture to scroll through the gallery).
So Nikki, today you and Bryan have reached a major crossroad. With your “schooling” behind you, you can look forward to more challenging and exciting experiences as he returns to Michigan to finish university and you put on that (metaphorical) white coat with Dr. Nikki Wawrin inscribed above the pocket.
I spotted this old railroad crossing sign on my way out to the parking lot after your brunch. What serendipity! May it remind you both to stop, look, and listen in the days (and years) ahead…to your professors, your colleagues, and to each other. Oh, and forgive me for indulging in one last grandmotherly piece of advice, take time to give thanks…always remember to give thanks!
God bless you both!
Love,
Grandma L.
SEEN ALONG THE TRAIL 
Awh… Thanks for sharing this. Congratulations to Dr. Nikki Wawrin. I am in my second year of medical school, and I know what we go through here. Hats off for Doc Nikki. Looking forward to learning from you! Be blessed beyond and have a blissful day.
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Thanks for checking out my blog. I will pass your message on to Nikki. Good luck to you in med school.
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Thank you Carolyn. God bless you and yours!
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Congratulations on a fabulous accomplishment!! You have a right to be very proud. And that looks like a wonderful place for a celebration!
I’m also a bit fond of the University of Toledo – my youngest son went there and my daughter is currently pursuing her Bachelor’s in Asian studies with a minor in Japanese. 🙂 Toledo is just a skip and a hop from my home in Michigan.
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You are probably closer to Toledo than we are. We are located in the northeastern corner of Ohio, about 20 miles east of Cleveland. Bryan and Nikki are from Kent, but moved to Toledo after they got married so they could finish school there. Bryan is at University of Michigan in Ann Arbor (an adjustment for this Ohio State family). We are very proud of both of them, as you must be of your two Toledo connections.
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Congratulations !! Quite an accomplishment! A lovely spot for a celebration!
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It is a great spot. Bob and I have a fondness for old railroads as his father and grandfather and my grandfather worked for railroads.
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