Birthday: Art Party

This year's art themed cake was as yummy as it was cute.  Lily Grace chose Strawberry cake with strawberry filling.  

Lily Grace and I had the best time making these chocolate dipped pretzel crayons.

       

Lily Grace with Mrs. Meredith

Out go the candles

It was a beautiful afternoon for having fun outside.

Shopping for St. Jude

 Her final total for St. Jude

This year Lily Grace enjoyed an Art theme for her birthday party.  We had so much fun.  Our good friend Mrs. Meredith lead the children in painting a Panda canvas as well as a frame and a large keepsake canvas for Lily Grace.  She was awesome.  Lily Grace just adores her and tells everyone that she's a "real artist."  She is an awesome artist and an elementary art teacher which makes her an all around wonderful person to work with.  She made Lily Grace's party so special and will never know how much it meant to us to have her do Lily Grace's last party here in the house we have called home.  Meredith thank you so much.  You are amazing!  Thanks also to Miss Melissa who was so kind in helping Meredith and all the kids who attended.  
We entertained more kids this year than in past years and it was just plain fun!!  
Lily Grace did things a little differently this year.  At school, she has learned a great deal about serving others and it's something we try to stress around here.  It's what God calls us to do.  And with that said, back in January when we started talking about this year's party, Lily Grace said that she would like to do something for others and so the idea was born.  This year, instead of gifts, Lily Grace asked guest to bring in donations for St. Jude's Children's research hospital.  We made sure she understood what she was asking and supported and praised her choice.  Her guest were most gracious and she raised $255 from her party.  
Several weeks ago I called St. Jude and they sent me an extensive list of donations that they are always in need of.  After church today, we took Lily Grace to Target and let her shop for whatever items she wanted off the list.  Daddy kept a total for her and she took such care and pride in what she was doing.  
Her actual birthday is on Wednesday and after school, Matt and I will drive her down to St. Jude to deliver all the items she was able to purchase.  Thank you so very much to all of our party guest for being so generous and for helping to teach our little girl about doing for others.  
Thanks for the gifts and thinking of her.  You all are too sweet!  
Thank you all for attending and making our last party here a very, very special one.  
Lily Grace, Daddy and I can't believe that you are so close to being 6 years old and at times, we can't believe that you are only 6.  You have a wonderful spirit and love for God.  We pray that both of those things grow each birthday.