Family Graduation and Baby Shower

I flew to MO the last week of July for two happy celebrations - big brother Tim added "Specialist" to his Masters degree in Education, and little sister Gina was centerstage at her baby shower.  I'm so proud of my family, and so thankful I got to be a part of celebrating them!

Mom and I spent a couple of days preparing for the shower - getting food ready, decorating, and making favors for the kids (it was a mother-child shower, which was a great idea on Gina's part!). 

This didn't particularly have anything to do with the shower, but we did have some really good cherries that week!

Mom found this super cute lamb...and his name was already Louie!

Oh don't ya just want to squeeze 'em!?

After a couple of days of prep, Gina arrived Thursday evening and helped us pick out a gift for Tim, followed by some good girl times that night.  Friday morning we three headed up for haircuts.  Yay - I love having my hair done!  Then we added Dad to the crew and took off for Bolivar for Tim's graduation.  Rhianna's parents were there too, and we had a great meal before the ceremony.  Tim, I'm so proud of all you've done, but even more than your impressive accomplishments, I'm proud of who you are.

Gina ironing her shirt for the evening - isn't she so cute!!

Dinner in Tim and Rhianna's lovely home

Sophia is an impressive corn eater

Tim and Rhianna post graduation

Tim, Rhianna, Ellen, and Sophia...and little baby girl!

Proud Mom and Dad with the Graduate

The sisters.  Way to go big brother, way to go!

Homemade peach cobbler and ice cream wrapped up the evening quite nicely. 

Friday morning we finished up shower prep, then got things underway!  Gina, you are already a fantastic mom, and I'm so blessed to watch you grow beautifully into each new challenge/chapter that comes your way.  Your love, grace, and perseverance amaze me.

Loved these cute plates and napkins Mom found for Gina's breakfast!

Attaching the streamers and balloons was a bit of a balancing act...but what fun colors!

Mom also found these napkins - so perfect!

Check out the awesome cookies Rhianna made!!

And of course, as with any good party, there was food!

Ellen and Sophia play a game while waiting for the festivities to begin...

...priceless!

A moment of excitement as the guests arrived and goodie boxes were opened.

There was some socializing and eating, then a game and presents.

Sheila and Drake

Rachel, Hayden, and Gina

Brigette and Gina

Lauren, Haven, and Gina

Rhianna and Gina...amused

Mom and Gina with a super cute stocking cap

Andrea and Gina

Roxie and Gina

Charlie wasn't there, but he still contributed a toy for Louie!

Me with my sis

"Maid Marian" with Gina and the booties we brought back from Italy

YUM!

The little crown Lauren made for Louie

The little girls - Sophia, Valerie, Ellen, and Annie

Mom, Gina, Rhianna, and Me

It was such a good time to be able to spend a few days with with family and celebrate worthy causes.  I went to help throw a baby shower, and I'm the one that ended up being blessed and uplifted.  I guess that's what good company does.