Doughnuts and Fishes (and Ninth Birthdays too)

Growing up in a small Baptist church, I learned the story of how Jesus fed the 5,000 with the loaves and fishes.  It was a favorite, because who doesn’t love a good food story?  That being said, today, I kept up with one of my favorite traditions and fed my nieces and nephews, not loaves, but doughnuts from my favorite Michigan bakery.

For lunch though, we did enjoy some delicious fish, caught by my nephews, Jonathan and Luke.  Everyone pitched in to help out.  And I should make note, I’ve really enjoyed seeing how well my sister’s kids step in to help out.  Since they all come from large families it’s probably a necessity, but it’s something that they all do really well.  Whether it’s helping to pick up toys or stepping up to help with lunch, they all help out readily and willingly and it’s kind of amazing to see.

  

Moving on.  Outdoors, Luke and Grandma cooked the Blue Gill and Bass to perfection on the grill.  And when it was ready, we all enjoyed a fantastic lunch together.  It was delicious and awesome and a fun memory made.

The afternoon was spent, just spending time together.  I did a craft project with five of my nephews while my sisters and mom went out to do a little shopping.

Ellee’s continued to enjoy the special times spent with her cousins.  She and Lydia had fun playing outdoors together at Grandma’s house.

Then, this evening, we headed out to the Lake.

My beautiful 97 year old Grandmother even came out to spend time with family.

We all gathered together, to celebrate this sweet girl in celebration of her ninth birthday.  I was especially thankful to get to be at her party since we miss most of these kinds of celebrations.  It was a joy to get together for Anna’s special day.

For the most part, everyone had a wonderful time.  In case you were wondering, these poor girls were sad because they had to share Grandma’s lap.  They eventually got over it, which I’d imagine is something they have to often to, considering that their Grandma Perry has fifteen grandkids who all love her attention (and spoiling).

All in all, it was another fantastic evening, spent with our Michigan family.  You’ve got to love a day that starts with doughnuts and fishes and ends with birthday root beer floats.  I continue to be so thankful for the fun memories that are being made this week.