Graduation, Mother's Day and a Big Birthday

Last week was very eventful. Actually starting two weeks ago, graduation celebration got into full swing. First on April 28th was the Mother-Son luncheon at the Racquet Club. I had not been in the ballroom since the wedding so that brought back some fun memories. We sat with the Peras, the Pappases and the Drennans. Br. Chris sat with us since the twins gave us an odd number and therefore, an empty seat. 

Sunday, the 29th was the Jazz Band's last concert. They played the same set I heard when they were on their school tour. Garrett sang "You Never Can Tell," by Chuck Berry and had his friends on their feet. Franklin surprised his parents by singing "The Dark Side of the Street."

Luckily I took two weeks of vacation. The following weekend on Sunday, May 4th were three events. First was the baccalaureate mass at school. It was nice seeing Garrett serving. Mimi came with us and we enjoyed a catered brunch in Heffernan. 

We were back 3 hours later for the full band's last concert. Finally, they got to wear their uniforms and they looked so sharp! They performed the Washington DC tour plus an additional song which I can't remember. They ended with the 17 seniors standing playing "Bless This House" one last time. Teary-eyed. 

Another three hours and we were back for the Men's Chorus concert and awards. They are a very talented group!

Wednesday May 7th was the Vand banquet at the Embassey Suites. Garrett received an award for his loyalty and Alexandra Howard received one for her dedication--the first girl to get a band award!

Not done yet! May 8th was Garrett's graduation party. So much fun! Lots of guests and food and cornhole! It was great having the first party because everyone is really excited, not worn out!

And last of all the actual graduation. I must say CBHS has by far the best graduation ceremony ever. It is respectful, but relaxed. The speeches were warm and funny and short! Br. Chris had printed posters of the boys whose dads were graduates. Band members stepped up to unroll them then the graduates had to find their dads and stand with the posters then the dads came and stood behind. It was fun seeing Paul get a big kick out of doing this with Mark! The ceremony was done in one hour. Afterwards the family came back for lunch then it was on to the Bursis, the Richgels and the Volpes to continue celebrating. 

By the end, Garrett was worn out!

But we're not done yet because the next day May 11th was Mothers Day. Yay for me--I had all my family at church with me, the deacon had a nice mom-centered homily then it was barbeque and chocolate mint cake back at the house. My present is the best--a garden swing! 

One more big event: Connor's 21st birthday! Last night we all met at Young Ave. Deli, including John Dawson for dinner and a beer. It was so fun! 

Royal Weekend

It is kind of cool to have Prince William and Prince Harry in town for the wedding of their friend, Guy Pelly to former Memphian, Lizzy Wilson, granddaughter of Kemmons Wilson--the Holiday Inn guy. I don't think in our history, any prominent member if the British royal family has ever been to Memphis. 

My closest contact would be the drive-by as I was returning home from the garden down Shady Grove S. I had to slow down a lot as photographers were crossing the road with their obnoxiously big-lensed cameras in order to setup across from the driveway to the Hunt and Polo Club. Cars were lining the street on the east side, presumably waiting in line to be inspected before driving up the shaded driveway to the site. There were a few onlookers in folding chairs set up, I guess, to wave at the entourage when they arrive. 

It is a really beautiful day for a wedding--sunny, clear, low humidity and temps in the 70's. I hope the couple has a nice ceremony and nothing ridiculous happens to spoil the event.  

We Memphians be paranoid about stuff like that. 

Waterlogue

This is a great app! I have enjoyed experimenting with the different watercolor styles. Some are better than others. Close up, detailed pictures seem to give the best results. It is just what the frustrated artist in me needs to turn my photos into real art!

I really like this beach pic from our trip last September.