The Graduate

 Well, he did it.

My nephew walked the stage, bridging that tiny gap between high school and the college years.

We gathered for a shin dig on Sunday to celebrate his doings.

Kaylyn and Nana prepared an enormous spread of BBQ and fixings.  I can't believe I didn't take a picture of the food.  That certainly wasn't very German of me!  ha!  We ate and talked and ate and talked and ate.

Kaylyn had the house fixed up real cute and even let Emma take this balloon home.

Emma kept reminding everyone that SHE was a graduate too (of preschool).  We had to keep reminding her that it was Aaron's special day.  But the fancy balloon and special bubbles from Nana seemed to satisfy her need to share a piece of the spotlight.

After dinner the cousins jumped in the pool.

See this?  This is why we NEED such a huge BBQ spread.  They are growers, these boys.

After pooltime it was back inside for cake and ice cream.

Mike and Kaylyn.....proud parents.

Nana and Papa.....such gracious hosts, always.

It was a fun night of celebration.  Aaron even snuck out to the garage with me to show off his new car and fancy stereo system.

So, we have two down and five to go in this family.  We all "unanimously" agreed that Nana hosts a great graduation bash, and signed her up to host all the rest.  (We didn't let Nana vote!!)  Since Max and the twins will graduate the same year, she'll make triple progress in 2016.  :-)

Emma was in SUCH a great mood.  That girl loves a great party.

And cake.  She's certainly a fan of cake.

But the minute we walked through the front door this happened to the balloon.

Oh dread, it wasn't pretty.

Aaron, we are certainly very proud of you, and can't wait to see all the exciting things that God has in store for your future.  Congratulations to our newest family graduate!