13 Mar - We were invited by the Stoffel's to attend Michael's High School graduation. We were very honored to be included. The day started with a non-denominational church service at a local church. It was a very nice service. The kids had a few comments, sang a few songs. The church was beautiful inside. From there we move to the gym at the school for the graduation. The graduation was very nice and different from an American graduation. It is a private school so it was a small class. It was also the first graduation for the school. There were 10 speakers - principal, teachers, etc. There was not any speakers by students like in an American graduation by the Valedictorian. The students presented gifts to the teachers. One of the gifts was a bottle of Stoffel wine so you know it was a First Class event!!! There were some prizes to students called "buchpreis". These are books given to students with the highest grades, highest grades in certain areas like Chemistry, etc and to those with the highest grade on the Graduation exams. Of course it was all in German so that was difficult but the experience was very good to see the difference. There were no cap and gowns and no High school rings. Also, the student's don't get a "diploma", they get a certified transcript. After the ceremony, there was some open face sandwiches and sparking wine. There are three wine makers in the graduating class and each contributed some of their "Sekt" or Sparkling wine for the ceremony.
After we met a few people, we went back to Michael's home for lunch. Petra made two wonderful pizza's - Hawaiian and Peperoni/Mushroom. YUMMY... with a special treat. We got to try one of their new wines for FY09. It was the Summertime kabinett Wine - a light citrusy wine perfect for a summer day. It went well with the pizza :)))) Jamie took a nap. Later we went back to the school for a dinner reception. The food was excellent - several appetizers, fish or pork tenderloin and a cream dessert with berry sauce or chocolate mouse - all EXCELLENT and of course Stoffel wine with dinner. We met a few of Michael's teachers and friends. We took a very good family photo with Michael and one with the Stoffel/Kennedy's together. It was very nice. I also got to dance the Vienesse Waltz with Petra. Well, she danced, I followed and tried not to embarrass her!! Vielen danke Petra!!! We left Michael to his friends and went home. Michael stayed to dance and enjoy the evening.
The next morning, Petra prepared a wonderful breakfast, we bought some wine. Michael woke up and we heard all (??) about the evening.
It was an honor to be part of their family celebration. Thanks sooo much to them for inviting us. It was a priceless experience and one will will cherish and remember along time!!
Michael receiving his certificate. He finished with an A :)
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