Did someone say Graduation {Party}!?!
Faster than you could say "My sister is graduating!"
We began planning a PARTAY (even if she didn't want one). I mean this is a big deal!
I know I won't give this blog justice because-
1. I'm exhausted and the week leading up to it was filled with stress that took me down a bit.
This Week-
Connor's driver's ed/exam= hours of studying a night, my 2 day migraine that led me crying like a baby at my desk, several meetings, Carlee's upcoming recital with swollen ankle, energetic middle schoolers, paperwork deadlines, first EOGs, etc.
It all left me with little time to actually ENJOY the planning process.
2. Darren was staying back to attend to our other Sweet Fam Graduates, so that left me with two teenagers and my little drama queen ALLLL WEEKEND alone.
3. My sister has worked her tail off, and I could never capture how she overcame one of the most challenging years ever faced (both remote and in person) to graduate with full honors!
I'm still going to try my best, so here it goes.
First Stop: Mani/ Pedi
I decided we had to start with some R&R by taking my girls (niece and daughter) to get our nails on!
I think these ladies REALLY enjoyed the experience.
As did I.........
Tropical Blue all the Way
Cute, Right? These feet are grad ready!
Travel Time
to get our GRAD ON!
Whooooo.
The kids were awesome about getting up and getting ready (very early).
They were excited.
Graduation
My Pretty Sissy
(she just loved all these photo ops. sarcasm)
The Graduation was awesome with perfect weather.
There were no lengthy speeches or announcements of honors (those were listed in the bulletin/ diplomas/ academic stoles).
It was also interesting there were no mentions of a valedictorian, scholarship, athletic recipient, or class rank.
The ceremony was so short, but I sort of loved that the group graduated as equals.
They graduated the way they survived- together!
I love this picture of
(my mom) Gigi and (my niece) Tru Bug
Me & My Babies.
(The Two Teenagers and Little Drama Queen)
Badminton Tourney
We even had brackets that went into the next day. This is serious business.
AND The WINNERS ARE............
Tru Bug, Lissa (our Most Awesome Cuz),
Carlee
Next Up-
Bring ON the Snacks
& Scavenger Hunt!
You like this autograph puppy I found?
He is so cute and he came with a pen so we could write a message all over him.
(Sissy loves dogs too.)
Connor and I tried to make graduation caps and little diplomas prior.
We are also at the "argue about everything" stage of life....
so
the creative one of the family took over!
They turned out great.
I forgot to take pictures but here they are on the table (far left, far right).
I didn't take any pictures of the Scavenger Hunt because at that point Sissy was tired (and so were we), but
this is the cutest hunt for your graduate to 'earn' their graduation $$$.
Water Gun Battle!
A Literal Blast
Good Bye
We came home today.
Our little champion was conked OUT!
I was a bit depressed because 1- I left my house in the biggest hoarder mess. 2. I haven't did laundry since last weekend (thanks migraine). 3. I had to unload and unpack.
4. I already miss everyone. 😢
Praise- the kids felt bad for me and got on THE BALL. We got the place shining in no time.
They worked hard. I've almost put a hitch in the laundry.
I can honestly say that God answered every small, weak, and desperate prayer I sent Him.
Thank you Jesus!! (LIKE FOR REAL)
Everything was worth spending time with our graduate and family!
Like I screamed when you got your diploma,
"You go Girl!"
and you keep going!!!
Video Here:
