Going Away Potluck at the Park

Warning: Long Blog with Lots of Pictures :)

We had the most gorgeous and fulfilling day for our going away potluck!  It was amazing weather and lots of memories to last a lifetime.  It was a day I will never forget!

Our neighbor Homero was one of the first to greet us (with tamales) as we joined the neighborhood nearly seven years ago.  We all thought it was so special that he decided to show up and bring tamales for our party at the park.  Later he sang and played guitar and gave us a special concert, wishing us well and being so supportive of our courageous journey for the welfare of our family.  

Rob, Cheyl (not pictured), Chris and Kelly all came to spend some quality time with us.  Later, Rob and Cheryl took the time to pray with us about our journey.  We were touched.

Chris and Cliff came out to spend some time with us and chit chat with the family.  It wouldn't be the same without them there, since they were there throughout my entire life, and I know they will be there when we come to visit!

Linda Wilson, a dear friend to Rowan and me came out, also with my other sweet friend Tracey.  It was so nice to chat with both of them!  Rowans working on her cheesy smile :)  Hey, we all have one!

The day was filled with baseball, and other fun at the playground.  Baseball was definitely the highlight!

Here are the baseball girls themselves!  Not sure what Kierce was thinking here, but they were all definitely having a great time!  Looks like Rowan might have been teasing her baby K!

My friend Kat and her family stopped by to say one last farewell.  I was so glad to catch up with Kat at the park and she stopped over while I was having my moving sale!

...and Ryan with her husband Kevin, whom taught me a lot about gardening!  Thank you Kevin!

I am so happy to say that my mother-in-law has booked her ticket to come visit in the fall!  Yay!!  Colleen had a great idea when she threw a blanket down under a beautiful tree on this fine day.

Ryan got a good smooch from Aunt Diane before she had to take off.  We enjoyed spending special time with her, and I know she was in on the baseball for sure!

Happy 60th Birthday Pop, a little early!  Here he is with the gang after pretending (it was extremely windy) to blow the candles out.  Since I wouldn't be here to have a big birthday party for him, this was the least I could do.  Everyone loved the cake too!

I was so happy that my friend Sarah and her children could make the 45 minute drive down to play at the park and give some last minute wisdom and encouragement!

Merrick and Sarah's son Kai Kai had fun playing together, and mostly being silly together!  ...on cue, tongue out!

Ryan being silly with Aunt Lynn!  Why would we expect any different!  Hey, you're not the only one he does these photo bombs to.  Trust me :)  Aunt Lynn Rocks!

Well, once Aunt Nancy made it there, I was able to apologize for giving her the wrong exit number!!!  Aunt Nancy is a trooper, and she was worth the wait.  She also joined in on the special prayer with Rob and Cheryl.

Rowan and Brynn had a special moment, and I was lucky enough to capture it.  Someday Brynn will make it out to Cali to visit, and I know she will LOVE it!

My Mom and Mama Kathy looking oh so sweet!  We are all so blessed to be showered with love from these two women!

...have to end with this peaceful photo.  This picture of smiling sisters sums up the day.  It was a "mostly" blissful day spend with people we desperately love and care about each other.  Thank you to all who could make it.  It was an amazing day!