Family Reunion

We had FUN at the annual Towers-Walton & Alberty family reunion during Labor Day weekend in Oklahoma. We missed the inaugural Friday night bowling, which we heard was lots of fun, but we made it out to Big Creek, Okla., on Saturday for fishing and a day in the country. Gerald left early to the country to fish, and Alex and I made it out there in the afternoon. Gerald took her back out fishing, and she caught 5 fish! In the evening, after fish weigh-in, everyone ate then played games and hung out until dark. Alex showed off her hula-hoop skills during the obstacle course. And she and a cousin were partners in the mummy wrap game (with toilet paper). Lots of other activities. Alex just loved it. Lots of four-wheelers and a go-cart were all around, but Alex didn't ask to ride, and I sure didn't offer.

On Sunday after church, we went to the afternoon dinner and awards ceremony. Alex got her 2nd place medal for the 1-mile walk in her age group. She also got a fish trophy - not for the biggest fish, but for spending all afternoon with her dad out on the pond.

And, Alex is in the middle of selling chocolate bars for school, so we took 2 boxes up to Bartlesville, and sold out in about 10 minutes! I love our family! When I brought the boxes out to the table, money just came flying at me. I was amazed at the generosity shown, and GRATEFUL that Alex got to witness how wholeheartedly her family supports her - no questions asked. Cousins we had just met were forking over dollars -- but to be fair, it was the good chocolate bars :) Next year, we'll bring more.

And then, as we all were talking outside the center after the dinner, a family friend comes along on a horse. Gerald stops him and asks if Alex can take a turn. So she got to ride a horse (named Topaz)! I didn't get a photo, but a couple others did, so I'll try to track one down. (Note to self: need to get a new camera!)

We originally were going to come home on Sunday night, but we stayed until Monday so Gerald could spend the day with his brother Mike and nephew Zane fishing on their new boat. Alex and I hung out at the house and visited with MeMa, PaPa and Aunt Mary Beth. Alex had MB and me playing scavenger hunt, which actually was pretty fun. At one point, Alex had hidden her MeMa - stuffed her under the buffet.

And we got to stay at my in-laws' new house. Loved it! So homey and comfortable. Can't wait to go back. Alex cried as we left; she just hates to leave. Even today, she's a little melancholy, but getting better. Hopefully, we'll be caught up on sleep after tonight. Can't wait 'til next year!