Long Coat Ceremony

As my previous post noted, Russ finished his last day of medical school this week. Both our families came into town this weekend to celebrate with us. Thursday began the graduation festivities...the long coat ceremony. Or as Kristin said, "Oh! You'll be wearing one of those dorky looking long coats?" Ha! Yes. But, might I add...that coat has not come easy!

The long coat ceremony was held at the Marriot downtown, and it was very nice. The band was fabulous, and the food was great! This, in my opinion, was more meaningful than the actual graduation. This was the last meal Russ and his classmates would have together. How special to celebrate such an amazing time with your loved ones and the ones who have been WITH you through it all.

Russ's and my dad talking before the ceremony

Soon-to-be Dr. and Mrs. Russ

Russ and his proud parents

Although seeing Russ in his long coat was very exciting, the highlight of the night was this:

Neal and Kushboo are two of Russ's classmates. As Dr. Jones picked up her coat, he pulled out the "strange red box that no one else had." He asked if anyone knew anything about it. That's when Neal came up and proposed! How fun! The crowd went wild!

Now on to the real highlight! Russ received his long coat, and he looked very official...if I do say so myself.

Dr. Jones helping Russ with his new long coat

Look at him! Isn't he just too cute!

Dr. Russ

When all the students had received their long coats, they all stood to recite the Hippocratic Oath together, along with other doctors (many of which were family members).

Each medical student (there were 95) had a table with 10 seats. So, overall, there were nearly 1,000 people in attendance! It was amazing! Russ was so thankful to all of the friends and family who came to support him.

Joanie came with Dr. Thomas to represent Magnolia. Magnolia was the largest sponsor for this year's long coat ceremony. A huge thanks for representing!

His wife, of course!

Pat, Felicia, me, and Russ
Very scary to see these two in doctor coats! Especially the crazy "doctor wives!" We may seriously need lessons on acting like a mature grown-up. Nah! I think we'll just have to break the mold on the whole doctor wife thing!

Jenny and her "Little Bit" - she definitely yelled that out as Russ walked across to get his coat!

Lee, Kristin, me, and Russ

Me, Russ, Mama, and Daddy

We were so glad that Pops was able to come!

Dr. Russ and his parents

It was such a nice evening! And, after getting lost trying to find our car, we finally made it back home last night to rest up before the big day!