Congratulations!

First and foremost...

Congratulations to my sister-in-law Mara!

Last Saturday she became Dr. Mara Syring, D.O. This is a unbelievable accomplishment and the Stokes' are so very proud of her! We're also proud of Mike and Rohan for their unending and continued support through this process and as you enter your residency. Congratulations!
As you might have guessed, Mara's graduation ceremony and party didn't happen in Green Bay, or Wisconsin for that matter. The ceremony was in Kirksville, MO and the picnic/party was in De Moines. We were nomads for the weekend and my parents were brave enough to ride with us to split the drive and gas. I wonder if they're regretting that? No matter, we loved going with them!


So, where did 20 hours and 1100 miles get us last weekend? See the map below. It was worth every hour, $, and "are we there yet" to be there and share in Mara's amazing accomplishment and special day.



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Jackson and Dad at the ceremony



Rohan is so proud of his mom!



Just before the ceremony.



Mom, Dad and Mike. A rare photo where Mike isn't acting like and ass :)



Mara getting hooded



Diploma in hand. Yes!!!



Unfortunately for the picnic/party in Des Moines the weather did NOT cooperate. The high was MAYBE 50 with sustained winds of 20 mph, gusting to 30 mph. We made do with borrowed hats, coats and gloves.


Thank you Nate for letting us borrow your hat for Jackson!



Rohan with me in the truck trying to get warm. His lips were BLUE!



Even numb fingers and noses won't stop a good swing among cousins.