Tri-Mitzvah Triumph!

Shortly after New Years, Matt and I were off to Florida. All three of Matt's youngest siblings had their bar and bat mitzvahs on January 4. Matt and I headed out really early on Friday morning. Many thanks to my sister and Ryan for getting up early, clearing the ice and snow from their car and taking us to the airport (and not the one 10 minutes from our house, but the one 30+ minutes away).

Once in Boca Raton, Matt and I had a fabulous time! The first night was services and then a catered dinner at his parents' house. Yum so much good food and amazing mojitos.

Our trip to Florida was great for so many reasons. We had amazing quality time with his family. I met his aunt for the first time. Man she is just the female version of his dad (love it!). We shared so many laughs all weekend long. After the big party on Saturday, we were all a little more relaxed.

The big day itself was outrageous. I can't describe it well enough. First, the ceremony was beautiful. I don't think Matt and I have cried so much (even at our own wedding!). Seriously, if you've never been to a bar/bat mitvah, it's truly something. We then moved on to the party, which had the biggest cocktail hour I've ever seen. There was the "kids" room and then the "adult" room. There was food everywhere! I was so hungry that I forgot that we still had dinner in the large room afterward (Matt had to remind me so I wouldn't fill up!).

Once the banquet room opened up, the Elkin family was introduced as "the hottest family in Boca." OMG, I about died, but it was so much fun to be called into the room and have everyone lining the pathway to the dance floor-giving us high fives and cheers as we entered. There were professional dancers to keep the dance floor and pumped up vibe going all night. Absolutely the craziest party I've ever been to and probably ever will go to!

Sunday was a nice brunch, followed by rain showers. We all so soaking wet on the way back from the clubhouse and then proceeded to just relax the day away as we dried off.

Monday, Matt and I picked up his aunt and went to a flea market nearby (more like a shopping mall to me). We shopped then went over to the local casino, where we met up with his dad. Yay for Matt and I winning a little. :) Carla cooked an amazing Italian dinner that night. It was the perfect way to end our trip to Florida--just hanging out with family.

I have always felt like part of Matt's family. They are very welcoming. But after this trip, I feel even more a part of their family. I can't wait for his dad and crew to move back up to VA soon!

Getting ready on Saturday morning. Hair and makeup at the house!

Waiting for their turn.

My pretty sister-in-laws.

Matt helping his little brother get ready.

Matt and his aunt CB. He hadn't seen her since Jack was born (15 years ago!).

We didn't plan to coordinate, but we matched!

 

All the siblings!

Theme for the weekend.

 

Those dresses! It was like "My Super Sweet 16."

 

 

Hhmm, I think I have an equally embarrassing photo of Matt from his brother's wedding the year before. :)

Clearly Matt's favorite part of the night is dessert.

Typical Leah.

 

Before the rain.

After the rain.

Getting cozy after the rain showers.

Oh we laughed so hard this night.

So nice of Carla to think of my birthday (it was close to many others birthdays too though!).

I am so so so happy that Matt's grandparents could make it. They were so cute all weekend.

The new pup, Buddy.

We flew back on the coldest day yet. The airport had a pipe that burst near baggage claim.