"Fall Fun" with Family and Friends

Thanks to family and friends I had the opportunity to participate in an awesome fundraiser last weekend. It was an event organized by our group of friends at church, with the mission of raising money for our city's food pantry as well as contributing towards our church's various outreach meal programs. We invited hundreds of families to join us at a local park for food and fun. Lot of food and lots of fun it was!

Prior to the event we had around 250 RSVP's of attending. This required much brainstorming as how and what to feed, given there was no electricity at the park. Fortunately we have some very organized and motivated friends, resulting in multiple spread sheets and much enthusiasm.

Given that Michael was out of town for the weekend, my parents were great to watch Mehandis prior, during and following the event. Couldn't have done it without them!

Prepping with Cory, Mike and Jane about 2 hours before our start time.

About an hour and a half of the time was spent slicing 100's of donated rolls. It was amazing to see all that companies, stores and individuals donated.

Paul with lots-o-crocks.

We were all so thankful for the beautiful day... couldn't even begin to think what Plan B would have been if it rained.

Between the raffle tickets, bake sale, purchase of dinner/drinks and donations we were able to raise our goal of... $5000!!! Amazing. Curt, Kristen and Carri are seen below announcing the many winners of the raffle. Everyone did such a fantastic job. I truly can't wait to do it again.

I unfortunately could not stay and help with clean up, following our fundraiser, as I was heading to Miami that evening. A little Miami in Wisconsin that is! Friends, Dara and George threw their annual themed summer party. This year it was "Miami Vice", that should at least partially explain some of the outfits that follow.

Our hostess serving her signature drink, "Moon Over Miami".

Didn't have to worry about it being too dark for this photo as many of our outfits are bright enough! A very unique night with very many Crocketts :) Wonder what next year will bring?