May I introduce?

Dr. David M. O'Dell!

The big day was Saturday, December 18, 2010, in New Orleans, Louisiana, at New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary.

In attendance were David's parents, his aunt Karen, Carter and I (the girls were at the seminary preschool), and Dr. Bill Landers, more about these special guests later.

Thanks to Papa, Gigi, and Aunt Karen I was able to hang out with David before the ceremony. Here is David with Dr. Kelley, the president of the seminary. We went to a reception at his house the night before, and he just had the nicest, most encouraging things to say.

David was a part of the largest DMIN graduating class in the history of NOBTS.

The day was overcast and cold, very cold. The chapel looks so much nicer in the sunshine!

This is the cross that hangs in the front of the chapel among the pipe organ. Isn't it stunning?

I love this picture of Dr. Kelley. He is giving his "Get her done" charge to the graduates.

And here it is, the moment we have been waiting years for David walking across the stage of New Orleans Baptist Theological Seminary to get hooded. I could not be more proud of this man!

Dr. Gregoire and Dr. Ojea hooding David. They practically had to toss it over his head, ha! As David was getting hooded, the professors who walked with him on this journey stood along with our family to show our excitement for David reaching this milestone.

David leaving the stage and walking back to his seat.

Dr. Bill Landers, one of David's greatest supports and friends rode a bus, a train, and eventually a plane to get to graduation. I know this gesture meant the world to David.

This lady, we call her Aunt Karen, is most responsible for David completing his final paper. She worked many hours editing and helping him to finish. We are forever grateful for her love and support during both of our times at seminary.

David and his dad just after the service.

David with both of his parents. It was so special to have them there to celebrate this special day with us.

David and his mom.

David, Carter, and me. Carter sat through the entire graduation ceremony and did pretty well thanks to the camera on my cell phone. He took a lot of great shots!

David and Tilly just after the ceremony. She was really emotional when we picked her up from the preschool, and it took her a while to pull it together.

David and Gigi with the children. Carter was over taking pictures at this point.

Papa and Gigi with David and the children.