"Whatsoever things are true" Philippians 4:8-9

Recently, Rob and I travelled to Nova Scotia to celebrate Robbie's graduation from St Francis Xavier University. The big finale after 4 years of studying and applying himself! We were so grateful to be able to share this part of his uni experience with him! Being long distance parents, we only had opportunity to visit this campus in Antigonish twice- 2 weekends out of his approximate 104 weekends while studying there- Good thing there really is such a thing as quality time!

We met early morning at the Halifax Airport and settled in at Timmies, of course, Rob's favourite, and the first double double of many, he hopes.

Oh a momma who lives far away from her children- I sit beside him at the table and simply admire and say "thank You God" for this chance to sit within elbows reach! (and reach I do!)
There is such camaraderie between dad and son and this is a delight to see and enjoy. The 'two bulls in a paddock' atmosphere dissipated years ago and now there is mutual respect and affection, peppered with jokes and digs typical of two quick-witted blokes.

The two Robs. Proud Poppa. We are on this occasion, enjoying a tour of the Gerald Schwartz School of Business. It is an impressive $26 million dollar revamp of what was a former science building. Now it is a state of the art facility boasting the ivy-league architecture typical of the St FX campus, and calling attention to itself all over campus with it's golden gilt dome. What a spectacular space!
http://www.bird.ca/Projects/project-st_fx_school_of_business.html

Another accomplishment! Robbie is welcomed into the Presidents Circle of Young Alumni. "This is an honour awarded to outstanding graduating students in recognition of their contribution to student life and achievement". (http://www.alumni.stfx.ca/s/650/standard.aspx?sid=650&gid=1&pgid=656) Can you find Robbie's gorgeous smile in this group photo?

Looking Good Rob(s)! While being fitted for his gown, Robbie secures 9(!), that's nine(!) tickets for the convocation ceremony from this very helpful woman who seemed to be in charge. Just what we required for the extra large family group that has gathered here in Antigonish for graduation weekend. (stay tuned...)

"Whatsoever things are true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable- if anything is excellent or praiseworthy- think on these things."
The day has arrived where graduates are honoured, encouraged, challenged. Go forth, taking the spiritual and intellectual developments gleaned here and accomplish great things.

The President of St FX gave the graduates' families the OK to make a bit of noise
during the ceremony. Imagine! No stern reminder to 'hold your applause until all the graduates have crossed the stage'. Instead, Dr Sean Riley encouraged an atmosphere of celebration. And the Bird/Collins clan took up the challenge! Remember, there were 9 of us! Sorry Bud.

Congratulations! We are very proud of you!

We love you Robert C. Bird. We are impressed with your accomplishments and think you are amazing. We enjoyed sharing this important milestone with you. It was great fun, and there were many 'proud parents' moments. I hope you felt proud too!