We were all so excited for our Brett and Romney reunions at the beginning of August in Spokane, Washington! Before we got on the road we had to finish a soccer tournament, get us all on antibiotics for strep throat and get Mike home from a traveling marathon, but we did it! We finally got on the road on Friday night about 9pm. The plan was to find a hotel about 1 am, then wake up early to finish the drive. Unfortunately, there were not any hotels with even one room open...so we drove ALL NIGHT long. We got into Spokane about 5:30am...it sure make the drive peaceful, but boy were we tired ;). Just so thankful we made it safely!
After we got a little shut eye (actually, Mike never went to sleep), we headed out to a delicious brunch and family hike at the bowl and pitcher. It was a beautiful place with open spaces to explore which is perfect for our little family of boys. The kids were so excited to connect with cousins and second cousins, and we loved catching up with all the adult aunts, uncles and cousins too. The perfect way to spend the morning!
These two were the cutest little buddies!
That afternoon the whole family headed to the Shadle Pool, which was reserved all for us! We had the best time with the facility all to ourselves and a yummy dinner to chomp on...until the clouds rolled in and a crazy storm started which left us without out power for a couple of days. What I love about family is that we all make the best of it!
The next morning, with church cancelled because of the blackout, we took advantage of the free time explored the gorgeous gardens at Manito Park. Rick grew up right behind this beautiful place! It truly is the most magnificent park in every way. We loved seeing all the old places both Rick and Marci loved from their childhood, such a special treat!
Later that afternoon the family all congregated at the one house with power for food and family pictures. I am so happy we were able to get shots of all of us together! So special!
After the pictures Marci did an awesome job planning fun games for the big and little kids! Such a great night together!
Later that evening we had a family talent show, and in the Brett family, it is FULL of talent! It is such a treat to sit back and watch them all perform. We loved hearing grandma play the piano and Grandpa sing! The kids got into the fun too and did a few silly skits! A GREAT night!
The next day was Grandma Bear's birthday and Marci had planned a fantastic day at Riverfront Park, a huge hit! It was so great to walk through the old World's Fair Grounds and hear the stories from the city's heyday! We loved the carousel (which opened just in the nick of time) snow cones and ice cream, loved the garbage goat and the hot red wagon slide. And the splash pad was a huge hit! A great morning and afternoon!
After the park, we LOVED an afternoon of bowling. Just something about that game that makes everyone happy. These kids are all getting so old and loved having their own lanes, own food and doing their own thing. The bummer? Tallulah smashed her finger with a bowling ball and had to leave the party for stiches. :(. So so sad.
That night, the adult children put together a beautiful tribute to Grandma. There was an awesome book, an original song, and a darling video going through her life and with special birthday wishes from each family member. Such a sweet night! (My phone died early on, so I didn't get nearly as many pictures as I hoped I would!)
We ended the evening with a dance party and limbo contest. The Bretts sure do know how to have a good time! Here is Mike with some of his best moves!
Parker beat me in the limbo contest, but I was the last adult and almost very last one standing. I can't sing or play an instrument, but I can limbo :). It was a bummer to say good bye to all of the extended family. We enjoyed every minute of reconnecting!
After the others left we had a few more days to spend with Grandma and Grandpa and Mimi and Papa, which we LOVED. One of our very favorite things about the week was staying at grandma and grandpa Bear's house. They didn't even bat an eye about having our crazy crew invade their beautiful and quiet home. They were constantly loving, smiling and helping. We especially enjoyed our late night chats and morning conversations. I cannot believe all they do! Grandma still has 40 piano students who drive long distances to work with her each week. What a blessing to have such an incredible talent and still be able to use it! The boys loved Grandpa's sense of humor and deep chuckle. We are so lucky to have them in our lives...it will be a week we will never forget!
On one of our free days, the big boys went to a movie while the girls and Piercey shopped.
Another day we spent back at the cool pool, the splash pad and a quick stop for some yummy yogurt.
We hated saying good bye to these amazing people! Such a wonderful week!
1 comment:
I think one of the best things about moving back to Utah is being able to connect with extended family and grandparents (on a much more frequent basis). Sometimes I feel like moving again and having another adventure but I know it is important for my kids to feel that love and support that only comes from family. Looks like a great trip!
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