Sometimes my brain needs a break from coming up with a theme for our reunion. This year I wanted a "low stress" reunion so we took everyone to Rio Del Mar next to Santa Cruz because the beach takes care of all the activities for me so I don't have to stress about it. Little did I realize that although the Beach is less stress for me, it is a stressful place for mom's with infants & toddlers who need constant supervision (from the waves) & occasional naps!
I learned that it's less stressful for mom's at the Riverhouse because we are fenced in & they can let their kids run amuck without too much supervision. I also learned that families who don't live near by only get to play on the River when they come to the Riverhouse & we have developed some second generation River Rats who really want to play on the River. Noted for future gatherings!
One thing is for sure...watching everyone meet at the Rio Sands (walking distance to the beach) is pretty heart warming! We took over the parking lot with hugs & conversations as each family arrived...
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| Our favorite gingers have a special bond. They represent 3 different families. Some of the parents stand guard by the breaking waves while others enjoy a seat on the sand...   Cousins found lots to do...they played in the waves, they dug in the sand, they played games, & the big cousins helped entertain the little ones!                         After a day at the beach we played in the pool...        Celebrated GG'ma's Birthday...  Bon-fire & s'mores...       Annual family photo shoot...     All the grandkids in birth order (the oldest, Adia, holding the youngest, Erin)...     "Sand, sun, family, & fun...our memories of this reunion will linger on, long after our footprints in the sand are gone." |
