Bittersweet Celebration

Wow, the Vasconcellos side of the family knows how to throw a party.  We've had parties of all kinds, from a birthday party held at a historic, picturesque house on Cape Cod to a surprise Portugal themed birthday party.  This time, the occasion was Jake's grandparent's sixtieth wedding anniversary, and it was a Hawaiian pool party.  Of course we were expected to dress up!  And let me tell you, I have never seen so many inflatable pool toys in my life.  The boys felt like they were in paradise and talked about it for weeks after!  The sad part was that Jake's Vavo had recently found out that his cancer had returned. 

In preparation, Josiah helped me string leis for everyone (supplies made by Jake's mom).

 

I wish I had brought my other lens with a wider angle, so you could truly see all of the blow-up toys.  The pool was full of them when I arrived.  Most were pushed out of the way or out of the water when I took pictures.

Here are some details from the party (took these from Facebook).

Caricature cake topper was illustrated by Jake's Uncle.

They had several old wedding photos blown up with 3-D embellishments.  

A similar caricature was painted by Jake's uncle; this time larger, sans heads.  Notice the Notre Dame shorts and cane for Jake's Vavo.

And here were the guests of honor!