I think the title says it all: Congratulations, Cousin Erica!
This afternoon, I watched my cousin, Erica Denise Freeman, graduate from Volunteer State High School in Nashville, Tennessee—and I also want to point out that she was the second of 99 graduates. Yes, y’all—Cousin Erica was the salutatorian of her class, and I couldn’t have been happier for her.
However, the biggest surprise for Cousin Erica—and all of us, for that matter—was yet to come.
Y’all, I beared witness (or bore witness) to a very sweet Hallmark moment. Just as everyone received their high school diplomas, the principal called for Erica to come back on stage. The rest of us watched curiously as the principal instructed Erica to close her eyes. When she did so, a tall man in a soldier’s uniform appeared on stage and stood behind her. Immediately, Cousin Jade and Great Aunt Reesie started crying. I was still a little lost, but it all became clear when the soldier took the mic and said, “Congratulations, Baby Girl!”
It’s was Erica’s dad (my cousin), Sgt. Keith Freeman—he’s back home for good!
A little backstory: Cousin Keith was sent overseas to Afghanistan five years ago. The last I remember hearing from him, it was around our last family reunion. He had called to tell us that he would be coming home soon, but he didn’t know when his deployment date would be. Obviously, his deployment date was sometime earlier this week because he showed up in a big way, and the priceless look on Cousin Erica’s face was one that I’ll never forget. I already know that her dad’s return was the ultimate graduation present—hell, I couldn’t help but cry tears of joy for Cousin Erica… and y’all know that we took a great big family photo as well!
It goes without saying, but I’m gonna say it anyway: Welcome Back Home, Cousin Keith!
However, the biggest surprise for Cousin Erica—and all of us, for that matter—was yet to come.
Y’all, I beared witness (or bore witness) to a very sweet Hallmark moment. Just as everyone received their high school diplomas, the principal called for Erica to come back on stage. The rest of us watched curiously as the principal instructed Erica to close her eyes. When she did so, a tall man in a soldier’s uniform appeared on stage and stood behind her. Immediately, Cousin Jade and Great Aunt Reesie started crying. I was still a little lost, but it all became clear when the soldier took the mic and said, “Congratulations, Baby Girl!”
It’s was Erica’s dad (my cousin), Sgt. Keith Freeman—he’s back home for good!
A little backstory: Cousin Keith was sent overseas to Afghanistan five years ago. The last I remember hearing from him, it was around our last family reunion. He had called to tell us that he would be coming home soon, but he didn’t know when his deployment date would be. Obviously, his deployment date was sometime earlier this week because he showed up in a big way, and the priceless look on Cousin Erica’s face was one that I’ll never forget. I already know that her dad’s return was the ultimate graduation present—hell, I couldn’t help but cry tears of joy for Cousin Erica… and y’all know that we took a great big family photo as well!
It goes without saying, but I’m gonna say it anyway: Welcome Back Home, Cousin Keith!
You know, it’s moments like these that make me feel all warm and fuzzy. I’ve always loved “feel-good” moments, and when such a moment is experienced personally, it is that much sweeter. Looking back on it now, I am just grateful to have experienced two celebrations in one. Make no mistake about it, y’all—what I experienced this afternoon more than made up for missing Cousin Calvin’s graduation back home.
And speaking of back home, y’all already know the dilly-o! Nothing more needs to be said, nor do I need to remind y’all of what’s taking place tomorrow. I will say this, though: I already know that I’m gonna have a helluva summer vacation!
I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow when I return to Cali, but in the meantime in between time, y’all take it light!
I’ll holla at y’all tomorrow when I return to Cali, but in the meantime in between time, y’all take it light!
Hugs & Kisses,
Natasha
Natasha
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