Rylie's Quinceanera

On Saturday, we were blessed to attend Caedmon's "best girl friend" Rylie's Quinceanera.  I had never actually been to one, though I've known of lots of people who have had them.  Several people have asked me what it is, so I'll do my best to explain!  It's basically a "Sweet 16" for a 15 year old, typically Hispanic, girl.  I've heard that most of them are done by Catholic families, which include a rosary/mass/communion.  But Rylie is a good ole' Baptist, so hers was a little different.  She entered escorted by her parents, and then her pastor led a charge to her, her parents, with different elements represented.  She received a ring to symbolize purity, a Bible, and a tiara to represent her heavenly crown she'll receive one day.  It's a HUGE affair (some families spend as much as you would on a wedding!) with months of preparations.  The girl chooses a group of guys and girls to "stand up for her" and they lead a march in and do special dances.  Caedmon TRIED to get out of going, (he was so nervous!), but we convinced him to do it, and he had a blast!

An excuse to get dressed up!

Western jeans, check.  White button-up, check.  Heavy starch, check.  First pair of cowboy boots, check!

TJ, Caedmon, Weston, and Keygan

Caed and TJ

We had a yummy meal of brisket!  Rylie's dad stayed up the whole night smoking 7 briskets!

Cason and Rylie's brother Rex are good friends.

Sierra and Cambree

Caedmon's dancing partner changed a few times, but he ended up with Lindsay.

Rylie escorted by her parents

Gorgeous dress!  And for those of you who know that Mama Dee makes awesome cards, she made Rylie a birthday card matching her dress!!

Caedmon and Lindsay marching in and looking nervous!

Let the dance begin!

The Cumbia!

A quick spin with Rylie

Marching out with great relief on his face!

We are so thankful for Rylie in Caedmon's life!  She is a very godly girl who wants to be a missionary one day - we love her!

And now, lest you think we were going to be bored, Caedmon is off to Preteen Camp to serve on the Rec Team for the week, and Blu and Cason leave tomorrow as sponsor/camper!