Luckily their stay included a few days beyond our return so we got to spend too little time together, but it was wonderful. We all went to mass at my Uncle Richard's chapel. Here he is with 3 out of 34 (?) of his great nephews/nieces. He was always one of the favorite uncles and some things never change.
We spent the afternoon at The Shack, our beloved family cabin that was a huge part of my childhood summers. I'm not positive but I think this may actually be the first time The Shack, on Schoolhouse Pond, appears on this blog! Sadly, we just don't get there much anymore. As soon as I opened the front door and took in the sights and smells I was flooded with memories, all of them joyous.
And, despite Bea's disappointment upon hearing that the twins we were going to see after coming home from Maryland were BOYS, this 7-year old had a delightful time with these handsome and sweet 8 1/2 year olds. We saw them last more than three years ago, and hopefully it won't be as long before the next visit!
My Uncle Paul, Ellenore's Dad, Aunt Marianna, Aunt Denise, Uncle Glen, and Uncle Henry were with us for a time. Then my brother stopped by for a surprise "hello:"
This yard used to be filled with dozens and dozens of people in the 70's and 80's with many a family party. Every corner of it brought back more memories and it was so special to see the next generation playing together and enjoying it:
(this side was my favorite spot as a hammock used to hang between the two middle trees. It continues to be one of the most serene places in my life.)
My nephews recently put a bench on the property in memory of my brother, as The Shack held such a special place in his heart. This photo makes me giggle as poor Daniel served the rest of his time-out time on it for cussing at his brother. I'm sure my big brother was getting an empathic laugh from up above!
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