Our second trip was to reunite with the Holmes family, complete with everybody, a feat to say the least. All twenty-four (and a half) of us were together in a cabin in Payson, Arizona for one week.


We decided to split this trip up a little bit and we spent a couple nights with some dear medical school friends (Ben & Jessica) in Albuquerque, New Mexico. No photos, but we have children the same age and it's always fun to reunite.

Our time together at the cabin was fun. I always worry about how my babies will be when they see their grandparents, but Maggie quickly warmed up to Grandma and she was thrilled. Henry doesn't need any warming up.

We played game after game after game (a dream come true for me) and there were always plenty of people who wanted to play. The funnest game was Minute to Win It, hosted by Randi. A big family with a lot of personality made for lots of laughing to the point of tears.

The children played and played and played together, which is always fun to watch, as we don't see our cousins often enough. They are close in relationship, despite living distantly.

{Hugs all around!}

Henry loved "hiking" (down the dirt roads) to find pretend snakes, bears, and monsters. He always had a stick in hand and, as usual, basked in the outdoors. Dad taught him how to throw rocks at trees. At first, Henry was not successful at hitting the trees and out of the blue sang, "Keep trying, you'll get better" from Daniel the Tiger's Neighborhood (a PBS Kids show that I highly recommend). He eventually did get better.

{We even had a moment of sibling bonding. Best thing ever!}

My favorite day at the cabin was my birthday (go figure). We went to a stream and swam in the cold water and went on a small walk/hike to a waterfall. Brendon and I hung out with our children for a good hour outside and we all had fun. Nothing better than family bonding time for your birthday. The special day was complete with my favorite summer meal: BBQ chicken, fruit salad, corn on the cob, and strawberry shortcake.

Throughout the week, Henry got whatever he wanted whenever he wanted it, which made for a peaceful week in the discipline area. Henry was either watching a movie (a Mom's gotta get her game playing in) or walking around outside. Maggie, on the other hand, was usually with me or Grandma, sitting on laps and loving the constant snuggles.

It was a wonderful, relaxing week with the Holmes family. We love this family so much. Hopefully our next family reunion will be soon.