My husband and I were invited to two graduation ceremonies.

The graduates were my nieces, number 4 and 5, brother number 2’s daughters. Coincidentally both sisters had their graduation in early November. One on the 1st, the other on the 13th.

1st November was niece number 5’s big day. She got a First in Mechanical Engineering from Universiti Tenaga Malaysia (UNITEN). We first talked about the graduations at the family Deepavali lunch in October. In jest, my husband ‘warned’ that we might ‘dress-up’ for niece number 5’s graduation day.

We did. We wore florescent green and orange safety vests. For added measure, we printed the words ‘congrats’ and her name in multicolours in A4 paper, and tied them to our walking poles, which were the only things we had at home. It turned out to be a good idea as the poles gave the banner height and prominence. And, importantly could not be ‘unseen’ or avoided by niece number 5 when she walked out of the auditorium.

We didn’t expect nor want but we drew some attention as my husband and I were also the only ones in white and orange hard hats plastered with images of cartoon electric girl, tool boxes, mortar boards, and Cinnamoroll in a graduation cap. We didn’t care too much simply because we had so much fun preparing the paraphernalia and even more fun seeing the reaction on her face and the family😊.

UNITEN, aptly known as ‘The Energy University,’ is wholly-owned by Tenaga Nasional Berhad (TNB), Malaysia’s largest electricity utility company. I thought the university only offered engineering courses. Not so. It also offers degrees in business and computing, foundation and post-graduate studies.

13th November was niece number 4’s special event. She received her Post-Graduate Diploma in Education (French Language) from the International Languages Teacher Training Institute. There was, in fact, an earlier celebratory get-together of the Malaysia-sponsored students in France, where she studied French, yes, for three years.

In keeping with the French theme, my husband and I bought online cosplay outfits of sailor hats and neckerchiefs in the French colours of blue, white and red. We received them promptly, which gave us enough time to print images of the many versions of Pooh and ‘Chilli Pan Mee’ that she likes, as well as the French flag and other French-related stuff.

However, the order for a ready-made congratulatory banner and moustaches (for stereotypical authenticity), was delayed, and we were notified belatedly that delivery might be after the graduation day. What to do.

DIY. We printed a huge banner with the words ‘Bravo’ and her name in blue, white and red cardboard paper that clearly announced that we were there to celebrate her and the occasion. And, there was no missing or avoiding us😉. Late evening on the eve of the graduation day, the banner and moustaches arrived. Hmm.

Briefly, niece number 4 studied at the Centre de Linguistique Appliquée (CLA) and at the University of Franche-Comté in Lons-le-Saunier and Besancon. I know a little about Lons-le-Saunier. Yes, its known for the ‘Laughing Cow’ branded cheese and musuem. Yes, the very same individually packed triangles or wedges-shaped soft cheese.

This is true. ‘Laughing Cow’ was her ‘Aputha’ and my mum’s favourite, go-to cheese. The ones my mum liked had a really happy looking red and white cow wearing, what appeared to be earrings, but were actually ear tags of the round boxes of cheese. The boxes comprised eight or 16 wedges. I remember looking for both the single and double-layer boxes whenever my husband and I popped into any of the five grocery stores near where we live. I also remember my mum applying only one wedge of cheese on two slices of her Massimo bread. Why? Saving on cheese. Hmm.

I know my mum would have loved to be present at both the ceremonies. Gratefully, she attended the graduations of granddaughter number 1 in England and grandson number 1 in Australia. Yay. Gratefully, my mum and brother number 1 attended my graduation many years ago. They are both no longer here but I have such fond memories of that special day with them.

Both my nieces graduation ceremonies were happy events. Smiling graduates, dressed to the nines. No scruffy T-shirts and jeans. Proud and beaming parents, also well turned out. Supportive friends and families. I saw a few grandparents present. Nice. There was also a sea of gifts comprising beautiful bouquets, balloons, and plush toys. And, a number of photographers and videographers capturing keepsake moments. They were very nice-to-see and be-a-part-of-occasions that brought together the best in people, from all walks of life. Yay.

While the actual graduation day is but a point in time, it is the culmination of years of hard work, sacrifice and support. It is also a recognition of achievements, and the beginning of a bright future. And … adulting😊. Yay, again.