SURPRISE! Mary Claire's 30th (2/4)

We did it!

We pulled off surprising Mary Claire with a dinner for her 30th birthday. 

We had a fun night celebrating the start of a new decade for Mary Claire with family and friends.

Ann Hatten and Bennett were in on the celebration and all Ann Hatten wanted to know was where we were going to hide so we could jump out and yell "SURPRISE!"

Mary, Mary, if I've said it once, I've said it a million times. It is truly a blessing to have you as a sister and a best friend. I look up to you and it has been a joy watching you become a mother. You're fun, you're funny, and you have the biggest heart. I love you and pray for the best decade ahead!

This little cutie pie. We had to keep him entertained until his Momma arrived!

I'm sad to say that Ann Hatten didn't get her wish to hide and jump out and yell surprise since we were seated right near the entry way of the restaurant but, nonetheless, Mary Claire was surprised when she walked in and saw us all there for her.

25 Years at LPC for Papa Steve

Sunday, June 2, 1996.

25 years ago. 

I was 6 years old and was going to start the 1st grade that August.

25 years ago, my Dad preached his first sermon at Lakeland Presbyterian Church. 

Little did we know what sweetness and joy was ahead for us as it relates to Lakeland Presbyterian Church and just how much this church family would mean to our (now expanded) family. 

My siblings and I grew up going to Sunday School under the teaching of Mr. John High. Walking around after church to find Mr. Lonnie to snag a peppermint--red or green? Many summers spent at VBS, first attending and then volunteering. So many trips to RYM both as youth and as a chaperone. Countless Wednesday night fellowship meals. Dinners on the church grounds. Weddings, baby showers, funerals, and much more. We've seen this church and this body of believers grow like wildfire and it has been a true joy. We've seen the building itself grow with a family life center and the most recent educational building addition. 

This church holds so much our family's lives and is at the core of so many wonderful memories.

The church where I was married, Mary Claire was married, and Aaron was married--all weddings that my Dad officiated. My niece and nephews were baptized by their Grando in a gown that their Mimi handmade with the help of another church member. Lakeland has been a constant thread that has woven throughout our lives for 25 years now and it is something that is incredibly special and has been a trust treasure here on earth.

The Lord has been so faithful and so good and we are incredibly thankful. 

What a multitude of blessings our family has received through The Lord's provision of this church and church family. What a joy and a privilege it has been growing up listening to my Dad preach The truths of the gospel. Thankful today, and everyday for God's goodness and faithfulness. The Lord has ABUNDANTLY blessed our family through this church and all that He has done through this "little white church" on the corner of Lakeland Drive.  

Our church family was so thoughtful and pulled off the best surprise for Papa Steve. They had Dr. Ralph Davis come and preach (one of Dad's favorite pastors), a surprise BBQ luncheon afterwards, cards from friends and family, and invited out of town best friends and family to come. It was incredibly sweet and our family is so, so thankful to each person that played a part in making it such a special day. We love you all so much and love being a part of Lakeland Presbyterian Church!

"For the Lord is good;

    his steadfast love endures forever,

    and his faithfulness to all generations."

Psalm 100:5

Melissa's Surprise 30th 9/17

What a fun year as all of my friends turn 30!

A few weeks ago, my best friend of 19 years turned 30 and we threw her a surprise party...and if you know Melissa, you know what an accomplishment this is! This girl asks more questions and pays more attention than anyone I know so her Mom wasn't sure we'd be able to pull it off but lo and behold, we did it.

Isn't this cake magical? 

It was so pretty and so, so tasty. 

I love the big yard signs!

Russell was loving the surprise just as much as Mama was. Look at that sweet, smiling face. 

These two had the best time playing with one another and enjoying the celebration. 

How in the world are you 30?! 

It feels like just yesterday we were 11 & 12 years old meeting for the first time. 

So much life has been lived throughout these 19 years of friendship and it's safe to say that time flies. 

But, I am incredibly thankful for it all and it's been so sweet walking through so much of life with you by my side as my best friend. So, here's to 30 and all of the sweetness that's to come!

It was such a fun celebration and I think it's safe to say, we love you and cherish you, Melissa!

That same weekend, we took the birthday girl out and went to Dumbo's on Duling and it was soooo good! Fun drinks, delicious food, and such a fun atmosphere. 

Isn't he the cutest? I felt like we hadn't taken a picture together since March. 

Needless to say, we loved celebrating our friend and hope she knows how special she is to us!

Beaming

I can't stop smiling. 

I am just over the moon excited for Mary Claire and Grant!

He popped the question yesterday and we have another wedding coming in the Jussely family!

All day Friday I was so nervous. I literally had butterflies all. day. long.
I couldn't even take a nap after school. It was something serious! I blame it on the fact that Melissa and I were the ones hiding taking the proposal pictures. If you've never done that, just wait until you feel the weight of that task!

I couldn't have been happier to do it though for these two :)

 They were out at Twin Lakes, the camp where they met and have worked at for the past 3 summers. Also, where Grant works now! A very special place for them.

 When Mary Claire and Grant came back to the house all of their friends and family were there to surprise her!

Checking out the newest addition

They were literally beaming. It was wonderful.

 A few of Mary Claire's friends from Ole Miss being there were a pretty big surprise for her!

 The beautiful, beautiful ring!

 I have been waiting for this day since the first time I met Grant! I couldn't be happier for y'all and you couldn't have found a better man. I am so thankful for our friendship and bond and can't wait for this new experience we get to share together. I love you!

 My best friends

 My love :)

One of Mary Claire's best friends that just got engaged last weekend! So exciting they get to share this season of life together.

 Taking care of business

 Best friends since 6th grade

 Toasting the newly engaged couple!

 The soon-to-be Lyons! My favorite picture.

 Our family just keeps growing!

 Daddy's girl

 Grant's family--it was so nice meeting all of them

 Talking to Aaron--missing him!

My people

It has been so sweet seeing Mary Claire fall in love. This is something I have prayed for for years and it's here! We couldn't have asked for someone better suited for Mary Claire. 

I was taking to her this morning and she said that James 1:17 kept running through her mind all of last night: "Every good and perfect gift is from above..." and  I couldn't agree more! It's so humbling knowing that The Lord finds joy in us when we gather together in His name. When we unite in marriage together in His name. 

I can't wait to begin this journey and share this sweet time with these two love birds.