So after the long night time drive to get there we got to their house at about 6:30. Surprising Grandpa as he was getting ready to shower with a towel and his shorts on. Could be my favorite memory of the whole trip. hehe. We slept for a while and then visited and waited for everyone else to come.
So Justin gave me the tour. It's a beautiful place, kind of in the middle of no where. Their land is about 30 minutes from the town so you felt like you were camping but with a lot more benefits. There is a pond you can swim in if you are brave, there was talk of leeches in it this year, a pond to catch frogs, a little swimming pool, a hot tub and lots of places to go exploring.
Grandma and Grandpa built their house with the help of the family. It really is an amazing work and I love the big logs and wood finishing of everything. It felt cozy, comfortable and like home from the minute I walked in.
We had a nail painting party while trying to stay cool in the shade.
It's Messenger tradition to play capture the flag, everyone plays to the little kids up to grandma and grandpa.
We went on some fun hikes, to see the pretty views. The Messenger's LOVE to hike. Justin often tells me memories of backpacking trips with his dad, grandma and grandpa.
Another Messenger tradition is singing. They all get together and sing folk songs, family favorites, and any other song they'd like. It was so fun and special. Aunt Penny, and Debbie provided us with the music and kept it going.
There almost everybody is. I forgot to take a picture of one of the families. We had lots of hanging out with all the kiddos, dogs, and trying to stay out of the sun. It was a great time spent with family. I got to visit with some that I haven't met before and enjoyed learning about them. We also had delicious fresh raspberries and ice cream, and some other berry cobblers. One of the best things about family reunions is the food.
