Weekend Fun

Last weekend was our annual family get together with my side of the family. Two of my siblings live out of state - one of them half way across the country. When my brother's family send the date for when they are coming home, my mom starts working to get everyone else there too.

Even the butterflies!

It's always a bit chaotic and a lot of fun!

When it has been decided our family picture needs updating due to new additions, it adds a whole new dimension. There are my parents (of course), six kids (all married), and 14 grandchildren (and counting). Mom decided several family pictures back she wanted us to do "family colors". It really works well. I have to say this was the most painless picture so far. In spite of people arriving late and others having to leave early, our photographer got the family picture with 12 children under the age of 8 taken with everyone looking in less than 10 minutes. She was worth every penny - I almost tipped her. :)

After she was done with the big group picture, I grabbed my camera and kids and headed out to find the perfect spot to take their picture. Here is my favorite attempt from the day. At least this time one didn't throw her head out of the shot. :)

I love how Ty is tickling Hope in this one.

It was so fun to watch the kids play together after the pictures were taken. They swam, Dad grilled some wonderful burgers, there was at least four different desserts - Ty sampled each one twice I think -, Becca and her cousin read books together. Hope was worn out before we left so Mom rocked Breeley to sleep while I gave Hope some snuggles.

Our family gatherings are loud, chaotic, food filled, rough and tumble boys playing, girl-time having, Grammy cuddling, Papaw cooking, Sibling reuniting blessed times.

It was so nice to sleep in on Sunday. Thank goodness for 11 am service. :)