Lisa Leonard, Parties, and Special Celebrations at Heart and Home

Hey there everyone! Is it Tuesday already?

It's been one crazy, exciting, fun weekend around here! Thanks for stopping by today.

There was a special celebration at our house on Saturday.

My first-born, my only child for seven years, turned 21 on July 24th.

In three weeks she's moving away to finish college.

We celebrated her big day in style, and gave her quite a send-off!

There were hand-made streamers and banners, and flowers, and piles of gifts covered in ribbons and bows.

Bright colors, vintage linens, birds and fresh flowers set the theme.

A big jar collected the notes written by all the guests.

There are notes to inspire, encourage, support, cheer and advise.

Our dearest friends and family gathered at this table and wrote and wrote.

I would love to read what each one says, but they're not for me.

I know there are many wise and wonderful things on those little cards, for her eyes only.

We have really great friends, and they've been a terrific influence on both my girls over the years.

Caring and kind, they've always been wonderful role models, and tons of fun.

On a day when she might not be feeling confident or happy,

 when she's down and feeling lonely,

notes written to her by the people who love her most

 might be just what she needs to help pick up her spirits.

Little boxes held candy for all the guests, just the thing to pick up their spirits as they headed home.

Not that anyone left here feeling less than jovial.

The day was filled with laughter, and story telling, reminiscing, and talking about the future together.

Of course, there was food. Lots of food!

 And, most important, several desserts.

 We had a good time eating!

There was laughing, hugging and joking, 

singing, embracing and a whole bunch of love in this house this weekend!

And, after the last guest left, a warm and comfortable feeling

 settled over me as I picked up and put the house back in order.

You know that deep and satisfying exhaustion

that comes after a job well done?

That's how I felt when I finally crawled into bed.

There was a little bit of sadness, too thinking about my girl moving away,

 (and some regret over a missed opportunity to give the perfect toast -

when I only managed an OK one).

But mostly I just felt proud.

Proud of her for who she is.

And proud of me for being her mom, for a party well done,

and a child well-raised!

I

I left the banners up, and the flowers are still fresh and brightening our rooms.

They are nice reminders of

a fun day, and

the love and laughter of our friends and family.

and, speaking of love and laughter...

 remember the giveaway??

To celebrate Heart and Home's One Year Anniversary

 I'm giving away:

A Lisa Leonard $40 gift certificate.

 A specially chosen necklace from my collection.

Vintage linens.

Lovely and wonderful items collected just for you.

All you need to do is comment, be a follower or subscriber, or refer a friend.

Each earns you a new entry.

Go ahead, you know you want to win!

Even if you don't, go ahead and leave a comment, it'll make my day.

Until next time,

XO

Heidi

linking today to 3 or More Tuesday,

 and Tabletop Tuesday  Thanks Ladies!