Joanne the Party Lady...

While we were in CA this summer, we got to have dinner with Joanne. Joanne is the party lady of California. She started bringing dinner to my sister shortly after Andrew (my little nephew with Down syndrome) was born. The first year of his life was pretty hectic. He spent most of his time in and out of surgeries, hospitals, doctor visits, therapy... and with 4 other kids at home, life was pretty busy. So, Joanne is in their ward and started bringing their family dinner once a month. It became such a huge tradition that even still (2 years later) she still brings dinner and a party once a month. She chooses a theme then GOES ALL OUT! Costumes, gifts, food, games... you name it!

2008

May I remind you of last year's Jungle Party?...

Hats, glasses, blow up giraffe's monkey and elephants, and lots of meat for dinner.

Katelyn, Anna and Davey Walker sportin all the jungle paraphernalia!

Jack hitting the monkey pinata!

Not only did we get invited to join the Jungle party last year, but her 2 grandsons came as well. The JUNGLE party was so much fun!...

2009

This year we were invited to the "WELCOME TO SPAIN" party. She of course went all out. She had visited Spain just a few months before this party and brought gifts back for the entire family.

The night started off with some Silly String left over from a previous Joanne party. It was ALL over the front yard and the kids were covered.

She gave this darling little "Bull" to Jack because after all, he is a bull fighter!

We greeted John at the door with our mustaches. He was a little hesitant when he went in for his "welcome home" kiss! I don't see why?

MUY GUAPO!!

Then we chowed on a delicious dish from spain that has rice, beans, meat (can't remember what its called). She brought yummy rolls, a huge pan of jello (because that's Danny's favorite) then no matter what the "theme" is for the month, she always brings individiual bags of olives for all the kids (because they LOVE them). Joanne is the best :-)
Joanne ALWAYS "accidentally" brings 2 desserts!

Thank you Joanne for yet another FABULOUS dinner party!