Reunited!

Family reunions are special and this one was no exception! It was all you could ever want in a summer vacation too. We gathered on the shores of Thompson Lake, about 40 miles west of Kalispell. It was truly remote by today's standards - no cell coverage, no Internet, and no TV. But, oh my, the fun to be had! We swam in the lake, water skied, went canoeing, played games, had squirt gun fights, played guitar and piano, sang, roasted marshmallows, watched fireworks, visited, and ate and ate and ate all kinds of delicious food!

Getting reacquainted. Maya, Boyd, Tyler and Sarah.

Boyd testing the waters.

Tyler in the sand.

This was the first reunion since Grandpa and Grandma have been gone. We greatly missed their presence. I could just picture them sitting by the waters edge, Grandpa slouched low in a camp chair and Grandma in her wheel chair, both with smiles on their faces. I could hear them marvelling at all the great grand kids and commenting about their cuteness and how much they reminded them of each of their kids and grand kids. Since they are gone though, I have come to appreciate my parents and aunts and uncles more. I can see in them the same wonderful qualities we so enjoyed about Grandpa and Grandma!

The boat crew. Brice, Charlie, Kyla, and Ellise.

What a pleasure to ski with Dave and Denay!

Keith on the wake board.

The boys look on with concern for Daddy.

My dear mother was a real trooper. She was the coordinator extraordinaire and she still found a little time to cuddle each one of her grand kids. Here she is with sweet little Emma.

A close-up of Mr. Crawdad held by Miss Kyla Jean.

And oh, the music. How lucky we are to have so many wonderful musicians and singers. Kevin brought all the Bonus Room Band equipment. Keith enjoyed playing his base guitar for a couple days. JoAnne also brought her keyboard which was greatly enjoyed by all.

Speaking of JoAnne, we celebrated her 60th birthday one evening. Andrea brought the most amazing treats and decorations for the party. There was even a pinata for the kiddos.

The Birthday girl.

An attempt to capture the 7 Quigley grand kids. Boyd was not enthused and sweet little Emma shows her concern.

A parting shot of John and Karrie, Emma and Sarah. It was so wonderful to spend time with both my brother and sister and their lovely little families!

The seven C's.

With their spouses.

Grands and Greatgrands.

Story time with Auntie Alison.

An evening concert by the Bonus Room Band.

Tyler with Lars' guitar.

This picture pretty much sums it up. Relaxation, recreation, and a wonderful family reunited!