Celebrating the Ballet Recital!

For many years my sister-in-law threw a wonderful party

after the recital of her two daughters. 

It was a real celebration after a full year of dance.

So, when I began putting my daughters in ballet eight or so years ago

I began celebrating their victory as well.  

Each year I'd ask the girls what kind of cake they would like to have-

this year is it was 

Chocolate Layer cake with cheesecake filling!
(Here is the link to my dear friend's blog and recipe).

I always enjoy decorating!

My sister-in-law found these napkins and plate set,

bought them and surprised us with it! 

I would have hugged and kissed her if I we lived in the same state!

Then, I take a ridiculous amount of pictures of them in their costumes.

(I danced from the time I was six years old until college age 

and I only have two pictures to prove it. Yes, I am over compensating).

Daddy presenting them with their flower bouquets!

Grandma and Grand-daddy celebrated with us.

I find it so important to celebrate our children's successes.

A year of 'ups and downs,' 

perseverance

hard work

and then finally, the reward.

Our Father in heaven 

rejoices over us-

shouldn't we rejoice over our children too!