Farewell to Auntie Ann ~ Aug. 21st

Last night we had a lovely family party with some special friends also. We were celebrating Charles' 16th birthday, as well as recognizing the sad occasion of Ann and her children moving to Winnipeg in a week from now. Of course we wish her and Steve all the best, but her absence will be felt deeply.

Randy, Julie and Anna joined us, allowing many to meet Anna for the first time. At 10 months, she is the same age as Nora was when we brought her home from China.

Nora checks them out, while Nana recalls that trip to China last year...

Grandpa with Isabelle and Nora... cheesies are always a favourite.

Enjoying a wonderful meal together... happy to have Kelly and Dave join us.

Ann's never far from the "kid's table".

Dessert time is always the quickest way to gather all the kids together. Second cousins Makena and Coen, with my cousin Luke and Tricia also joined the party.

Charles had a bit of help with the candles...

All the cousins and second cousins together... not an easy feat!

Anna joined the mix as part of our family, too.

Oops, we almost forgot Charles. Unfortunately, James was at work...

I couldn't wait until Christmas to give my nieces these flowered crochet hats/purses. Nora had been enjoying her hat for awhile already. (Nora's not too excited about her hat right now...) It may be a year until the girls can all be together again... :(

Anna tries on the hat, too...

A last touch for Charles, sweet sixteen... time for some candy!

Thanks everyone for a special evening...