Event Planning 101

So lately it seems as if all I'm doing is planning events/parties/etc.  It all started in highschool... when I was elected Class President of the McGill-Toolen Class of 2001.  If only I could go back and erase my name from the ballot... just kidding (well kind of). 

About two weeks ago I co-hosted a very fun and exciting Luau Wedding Shower for my good friends, Brittany and John.  We had some yummy barbeque, beer, and Erol's secret Mai Tai's!  Erol was such a good sport to make all of the Mai Tais.  As the party progressed, the mai tais got a little stronger with each batch.  They were very tasty though!   Since I forgot my camera, I have to borrow pictures from the Bride to share.  Unfortunately, I only have one picture that could be uploaded.  Here it is of the Groom and friends!



We had a blast and I can't wait for the wedding weekend!

For the past several months, I have been planning my 10 year higschool reunion.  I have shed many tears throughout this process as I find it very hard to have a reunion that pleases 270 classmates.  Erol has been so supportive throughout the entire time.  I know I must have a very special husband since he has not packed his bags and left.  I'm telling you... I have had some CRAZY moments. You know we all have them, but the number of crazy attacks have increased through the reunion planning.  It will all FINALLY come to a sweet end this weekend!!!  I am really looking forward to the reunion. being over.

However, I cannot wait to see all of my best friends from home!!!  I have friends coming in from all over the country for the reunion and I really really really can't wait to see everyone and hang out!!

I owe my mom BIG TIME since she is doing a lot of the decorations herself and has offered to decorate the restaurant on Saturday before I even get there!  Again, I will share pictures next week...

So, to wrap up the update of what's been going on in our lives the last couple of weeks:  planning a shower, planning a reunion, and planning our trip to Turkey!  If anyone needs to borrow any candles, vases, tablecloths, etc, just let me know and I'll let you rummage through my party closet!

In Loving Memory of My Pepaw

On Sunday, July 10, 2011, my Pepaw passed away.  Pepaw was one of the most unselfish, sincere, and thoughtful man I know.  He was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and great grandfather.  He live 86 fulfulling years.  He was married to my grandmother for 65 years.  He was a man of true character and I am a better person today to have known him and been loved by him.  Pepaw gave everything he had for his family and asked for nothing in return.  I know where my Dad gets his unselfishness...

Here are a few pictures of my Pepaw at my wedding.  I am so grateful that he was able to be there for it. You will be greatly missed, Pepaw.  I will always be your little Princess...

"Even when I walk through the darkest valley, I will not be afraid, for you are close beside me. Your rod and your staff protect and comfort me."  Psalm 23:4



America's Birthday

I am sad that my four day weekend for the Fourth is over but we had such a great time relaxing and spending time with family and friends.  We went to the beach Friday through Sunday night and then we went to my parents for some good food and pool fun on Monday!  Even though it was UNbearably HOT everywhere we went, we still had a good time.

Saturday, our friends Bixler and Ashley came to the beach to visit us and lay out all day on the beach and by the pool.  Then, we loaded up in a taxi for a night at the Flora Bama, which ended earlier than mosts due to the severely hot weather and waayyy overcrowded Bama.  But a buschwacker will always cool you down! Or make you forget about the heat, either one is sufficient :)  We thankfully unfortunately missed the Miss Firecracker bikini contest.  There's always next year, right?

Sunday, our friends, Annie, Tierney, Brian, Beth, and Grant came to visit!  We sweated sun bathed on the beach and then went for a game of putt-putt.  The game of putt-putt (or "miniature golf" as Beth would say) is still fun as an adult!  The boys got a little too competitive during the game, but it was all in good fun. 

It was sooo good to see everyone! I was sad to see them leave, especially since Annie was flying back to Boston the next day.  I wish she would move back to Alabama!!!  I'm sure this unbearable heat will convince her to move back for sure!

On Monday, the actual Fourth of July, we left the beach and went to my parents' house.  My brother and his wife came over for lunch so I got to hear stories from their honeymoon in Italy: the good and the bad.  They also brought us presents from Italy!  I got a rosary from the Vatican and a bottle of Chianti (my favorite red wine).  They gave Erol and bottle of some Italian liquor that was very strong tasting... but good!

Also, our neighbor Mr. Wayne came by and as always, he brings the fireworks for entertainment.  So, Erol and Wayne spent alot of the afternoon and evening shooting off fireworks.  Only a few minor fires were made during the fireworks but were easily put out by stomping on the flames.  Who cares if Mobile is in a severe drought right now... it is the 4th!! We only panicked a few times :)

I mean, it looked safe enough, right?





Before lunch, we all cooled off from the extreme heat (have I mentioned that it was hot?) with some very good, if I say so myself, strawberry daquiries.  Made by Yours Truly.

Pretty exciting, isn't it??

Ahhhh, the simple life!



At the end of the day, we were exhausted but so thankful that we were able to share the holiday with those we love!  Until next time... stay cool!