We honored her this week — this birthday week of hers. Birthdays are different this year. They are different, because Christmas will be different this year. We made the decision last Christmas — Christmas will be the celebration of the birth of the Christ child. We will show Jesus honor by giving to the least of these — these His heart beats for. So throughout this year we are celebrating the birth of each family member by showing honor and celebrating their birthday week. Mine was the first one of the year — here, you can read about it.
This week our eldest beauty turned 18. We planned a great big outdoor party to celebrate. It rained and rained down a tropical storm all week. But Friday we found not a chance of rain — so we were able to go all out. I am not sure the day could have gone any better than it did.What a gift that was! #542
And so many more I am thankful for… #543-571
My boy helping make pretty the tablescape.
The same sweet boy helping make the croissant sandwich lunch.
The perfectly cut to size deli wrap paper.
The little circle stickers I already had.
Ham and turkey sandwiches.
Chick-fil-A nuggets individual portion sizes and the cute little containers we found for them.
Having more than enough for everyone to pack their own picnic lunch.
The little trays that worked out just fit perfectly the food.
Husband who worked so hard to make sure everything was set-up outside.
Hay that became seats that I just love.
The tablescape adorned with items that we already owned — except for the pretty plants which Husband bought.
All the kids getting in and out with their food so quick — so they all can sit down and enjoy the meal together.
Vintage Coke bottle with red and white straws. I bought the straws here. 
Come nightfall — candlelight…
and lights strung.
Homemade strawberry shortcake with whipped-cream frosting.
The floating lantern surprise actually working.
(You can buy the lanterns here.
)
Fire from the floating lantern lighting her beautiful smile and pure joy.
A most spectacular way to end a joyful celebration.
Find my Pinterest party board here.
More counting…
Making crafty things with pre-teen beauty.
Vintage Coke bottles and red and white straws
Pinterest ideas.
Provision to bless and celebrate.
Gramma keeping toddler while my hands are busy.
Celebrating life.
Opportunity to guest post here.
Husband who labors and works until he has given his all.