the old turn of phrase goes something like, “why, youngin’, i’m so old, i might’ve changed yer diapers!” it’s cliche — and, frankly, kinda gross. weirdly enough, though, i think it  may factually apply in ashley’s case. i helped change a few diapers at my grandma’s house. back then the old southern homestead hosted  our frequent family reunions and  stockton child care provided daycare for several neighborhood toddlers. ashley was one of the toddlers, which practically made her part of the family. even then she was always smiling, endlessly energetic, and smart as a whip (to use another turn of phrase oft heard ’round my grandparents’ house).

i felt nostalgic (and suddenly old) when i saw a completely grown-up version of ashley appear here in athens for her freshman year at the university of georgia. that seems like yesterday. i am dumbfounded that it is already time for her senior portraits and graduation. i’ve never met anyone as excited as ashley to be graduating. seriously! i mean, i had a good case of senioritis myself that last semester of school. but this is the first time my question, “so, you ready for graduation?” has been replied to non-verbally with ear-piercing squeals of excitement. ashley had an exceedingly busy and successful career at good ol’ uga. (smart as a whip, i tell ya!) no doubt, she’s off to do more great things. we’re proud of you, ashley! congratulations!