Oh The Places You Will Go

Yesterday was a special day. (This was written a month ago.) My mother, sister in-law and I threw my "not so little anymore" cousin, Kelly, and graduation brunch.  Daughter of my favorite Aunt Cindy and Uncle Al (no I swear I am not just saying that because as a kid Al would hold me upside down by my feet until I said he was), I was 15 when she was born and remember it very clearly. We rushed right over to the hospital after school to see her. Kelly was a sweet and very bright baby who grew up into a very intelligent beautiful young lady. I babysat her quite a bit and we had lots of fun.

I know we have seen this pic before on this blog but this was back in the 90's before every pic was uploaded to the computer. :)

Our theme was "Happy Endings and Sweet Beginnings". I thought this so appropriate as our valedictorian graduates from Stratford High School and spends an amazing summer in Paris with her friends before she heads off to conquer the University of Texas. 

Flora And Muse

The menu, complete with the orange "Kellytini".

Our theme lent itself perfectly to a candy bar center piece...

and K cupcakes.

When I got married one of my mom's friends threw us a blessings dinner with close friends and family. Each guest wrote down a blessing, prayer or piece of advice for Luke and I. Then, when I was pregnant with Luke II, Katie brought the blessings tree to my shower where my friends wrote blessings, prayers and sweet thoughts to our family. These are some of the most special memories I have of the best events in my life. The cards are alive and well in our wedding book and baby book.
Well, why stop there. How about a well wishes, blessings and sweet thoughts tree for graduation.

 

If you love this banner, my sister in law has become an expert! 

 

Kelly and her room mate for next year

ALL IN THE DETAILS:

Me taking a pic for my blog of Katie taking a pic for hers.

We had such a good time. Kelly is going to go amazing places in her life. I can't wait to see!

Back bLogged

I have been working on a few entries for a while. Scroll down for more new posts. :)

From 2 to 23: A Blessed Family

On May 25th, 1941, this couple was married and started a family. On April 23rd, 2011, this family got together to celebrate their 70 years of marriage.

1 couple, 2 sons + 2 wives, 5 grandchildren + 5 spouses, & 7 great grandchildren = 23

I don't think there are a set of parents/grandparents/great grandparents that are more loved or respected. They claim all of our spouses as their own. My grandmother always says, "We don't have a bad one in the bunch.". The legacy and example that they have set for us is amazing and truly blessed.

There has never been any questions where their priorities lay. Their faith in Jesus Christ has always been put first followed closely by their love and support for family.

7 Great Grans!

Luke II lovin' his Gran.

 

Old friends.

We also celebrated my grandfather's 90th birthday which will be in June. This cake was a walk down memory lane.

The steps of a good man are ordered by the LORD: and he delighteth in his way. Psalm 37:23

 

Arkansas, Oklahoma, Navy, Texas, Monarch Homes, Full Gospel Businessmen Fellowship, 90th Birthday

The 2 youngest, Baily and Luke II. They became fast friends.

Luke II and his Aunt Katie!

Who said the Norwood's can't let loose???

The Royal Wedding And My Oldest Friends

In 1986, 6 little girls got together at a slumber party to watch Sarah Ferguson , Duchess of York marry Prince Andrew.We planned our own princess weddings and toasted to the bride and groom with sparkling grape juice.
Now, 25 years later, we came together to watch Prince William marry Kate Middleton. Now having planned and had our own princess weddings and started our own royal families there was nothing left to do but drink mimosas, comment on the attire and gossip about old teachers and face lifts.

This is the first time I have gotten to use my china. I can't think of better girls to share it with!

 

The royal wedding cake complete with Will and Kate's initials.

Us then. Christine, Courtney,  Me, Anne, Lauren and Alyson

Us now. Christine, Courtney, Me, Anne and Lauren (+ a Princess Clair running in the back ground!). Unfortunately we were minus Alyson due to her living  in Dallas. We definitely missed her. I think it's pretty remarkable that we all still know each other. I am proud to say that all of these girls have turned into such amazing women. I couldn't think of better people to watch the wedding with!