For my oldest daughter's recent 18th b-day, I was trying to think of something different to do.
We've had quite enough with graduation parties and crawfish boils and eating out.
Since Kayleigh has been a student of French for the past nine years and is pursuing a hopeful minor in French as she begins her college studies, I was taken by an idea a friend shared with me of recreating a French Cafe' theme for her son's wedding rehearsal dinner.
With Oma's help, we got to work. Single-handedly Oma transformed her dining room into a mini-French Cafe. In secret, we planned a tete-a-tete honoring the birthday girls. The two mothers and the two maternal grandmothers were in-the-know. The girls were suspicious, very suspicious.
On the drive to Oma's house, Kayleigh asked me suspiciously, "This isn't a tea party, is it?" LOL!
Good food, good wine, good coffee, good company, good laughter!
It was a success and the girls were so delightfully impressed. I think there's a good possibility this will become the traditional 18th birthday party for my other girls.
The china used belonged to Kayleigh's Meme (who is no longer with us). Oma thoughtfully made sure that Meme held a place at table with us.
Gifts from Kayleigh's Oma (white roses) and Katie's Meme (picture frames)
- Blackberry Wine
- Gulf Shrimp on Bed of Lettuce w/ Red Wine Vinaigrette
- Terrine of Smoked Honey Turkey & Mushroom Gravy
- Tray of Assorted Cheeses/Breads/Crackers
- Fresh Fruit Salad (apple, grapes, kiwi, pear, blackberries) Topped with Warm Caramel Sauce
- Cheesecake & Eclairs
- Croissant Rolls
- Coffee and Tea
Oh, oh, oh, Cay, what a blessing to her! You saw her heart and her hopes for the future and celebrated her as she is. I pray God will give me eyes to see into my children that way and help me to celebrate their uniqueness as you have.
Deb
Posted by: Deb | June 04, 2008 at 01:06 PM
Oh Cay! That might be one of the most thoughtful and beautiful 18th birthday celebrations I have ever heard of. What a special birthday memory the girls will always have. Very nice, and sweet!
Posted by: Laura | June 04, 2008 at 03:17 PM
Simply Beautiful!!! :)
Posted by: Cheryl M. | June 04, 2008 at 04:27 PM
Looks like great fun was had by all. Birthday blessings to Kayleigh.
Posted by: molly | June 05, 2008 at 10:31 AM