Celebrating, Graduate Style

As you can see, last week was busy! And fun, of course! Through all that though, we planned a party in Kristen's honor to celebrate her achievement. We decided to have it at the church her dad attends so everyone she loves would feel comfortable coming. It was a great idea! They have a picnic shelter, the best playground ever, and a cool sand volleyball court so there was something for everyone! Her friends and family drifted in and out throughout the afternoon congratulating her. It was wonderful to see everyone! We had a really good time!

We were really hoping for a sunny day (it was supposed to rain) and the weather couldn't have been better! Sunny and breezy...very nice! Actually, it was down right windy but although it made a few things a challenge (like keeping your plate from blowing away!) it kept the temperature very comfortable under the shelter.

Her cake was three sheet cakes put together! There were these little silver tiaras scalloped all around the edge that you can't see...very cute!
There was TONS of food! Kristen's stepmom, Sandy, and I did the cooking (except the potato salad...thanks Mom!).
The party gets started!
My mom gave Kristen a picture frame that had a picture of the three of us; my mom, me, and Kristen, all during our senior year. How cool is that?!?
More partying :)
The super-fun playground:

A rousing couple of games of volleyball:
That's my hubby serving in that one :)

A couple more shots of the graduate:
Here with her grandparents.
And getting cake ready for her guests. She's a good hostess :)

There was so much cooking and preparing to be done that week. Kristen's job was brownies so she recruited her little sister to help with that :)
I forgot to take a picture of all the chocolate on their mouths ;)

It was a great day and such a meaningful celebration!