Pearl Party

A new baby is like the beginning of all things-wonder, hope, a dream of possibilities. -Eda J. Le Shan

 

After months of planning, I can finally breathe! In preparation for the first grandchild in our family, Pakileata M. Tavo, a baby shower was thrown for my sister and her husband (Delilah and Jr Tavo). Before I get into the details of the shower, I hate to admit that all the talk of this unborn child taking over our lives is absolutely true in every way. (Deep Sigh) I really didn't want to believe or admit it, but the baby shower alone proved otherwise.

Family, friends and coworkers attended the 3-hour event held at our chapel (gotta love free air-conditioned venues). It was a pearl-themed party with the usual pink and white decor. Special thanks to Nala Ahau on the decorating ideas and to the setup crew Friday night for helping us get an early jumpstart: Nala Ahau, Peti Hafoka, Ella (Moe) Vaitai, Tina Liu, Teli Toafa, Mele Piutau and the kids (Saia, Malini, Tiulipe, Lucas and Viliami Alipate).

Food

 

There has been so much going on in the last few months that we really just wanted to make this as simplistic but fitting for the mommy-to-be as possible. Therefore, after some hair- and teeth-pulling (not literally), Lola (mom) and I were finally able to agree on a menu. We'd like to thank all of those who assisted with the menu and especially to those who offered to help. I hope I get the same offers when it's my time. haha.

• Meat/vegetables (gma & gpa Vaitai)
• Potatoes (Lile Finau & Tina Liu)
• Shrimp (Aisea & Emeline Maile)
• Fruits (Angie Vaitai & Seini Mila)
• Quiche (Auntie Rona, Natasha & Nazanin)
• Pinwheels (Mele Piutau & Hevaha Niupalau)
• Cupcakes (Nala Ahau)
• Pineapple Pie (Maele & Kafaika Wolfgramm)
• Cream Puffs (Crystal Vake)
• Ice (Tania Galeai)

This shower was certainly a group effort and I appreciate everyone who put up with all my nagging and hounding since we found out the sex of the baby. She will be spoiled, but let's pray she isn't a brat.

Games

I will be the first to admit that I am not particularly fond of games at baby showers. In fact, I try to avoid them at all costs in fear of total embarrassment. But like my cousin Lillian Haisila Dzurenko said, "what's more fun than public humiliation at family functions?" LoL. Therefore, a big THANK YOU to all those who participated in our games: catch the pacifier, baby song and baby (onesie) modeling. Unfortunately, I don't have a video of the first game (catch the pacifier), but I have a video of the sing off between the two best baby songs and the runway modeling competitors as well. Hope you enjoy watching just as much as we enjoyed playing!

 

Gifts

 

We don't know what we did to deserve so much love and help from everyone, but this new bundle of joy better realize how blessed she is to have so many caring folks in her life. Mommy & daddy have unpacked and are ready to setup for her arrival. In a few short weeks, we'll be welcoming her to this mortal life...unless she decides to come earlier. haha.

 

Enjoy the pictures...ofa lahi atu!