school's out for the summer

yesterday was gabrielle's continuation ceremony.......

which means she has graduated from elementary school and is heading off to middle school next year.

congratulations, my darling.

she was awarded 

"most likely to be on broadway" 

by her classmates.

what a day of mixed feelings.  

i have had children in elementary school for 19 years 

and was feeling a bit bewildered at the close of this chapter in our lives.

what a day.......

let me share the social schedule of a graduating, american 

5th grader:

7:00 - 8:00: end of school year breakfast at a classmate's home to celebrate

9:00 - 10:30: school awards assembly 

1:00 - 2:30: continuation ceremony and handbell choir performance

2:30 - 3:00: reception to celebrate

3:00 - 4:00: walk with friends to ice cream shop to celebrate

4:00 - 5:30: hang out with friends to celebrate

5:30 - 9:30: barbeque at classmate's home for all graduating 5th graders and their families to celebrate

9:30 - next morning:  sleepover party to celebrate

americans love a great excuse for a celebration, that's for sure!!

the boys' first day of summer vacation.....

and the band has a gig tonight

 look.......my dad is here!

welcome!

and with grandpa, comes his convertible!

margo and gabi couldn't resist a drive..........and a parade wave.

we were all invited over to alisa's for dinner.
princess lila dressed for the occasion.
actually, i believe alisa said this was the 9th or 10th outfit of the day.

ryla were fascinated when margo pushed the button to put the top up.

"it looks like a transformer!" exclaims ryan.

grandpa is in town because he is treating us to a week in steamboat springs!!

i can't tell you how much i am looking forward to a relaxing break.