Wednesday, July 15, 2009

Summertime And The Living Is Easy - Family Road Trip



Aunt Essie (82) escorted by Paris as we entered Fire Mountain Restaurant in Michigan (July 11, 2009).


It's been two solid weeks since I last blogged. It has not been due to lack of content or inspiration. I've been a little distracted with "Facebook" and other activities.

A few months ago, Katrina (cousin) and I talked about a road trip to see our Aunt Doris. Our mothers are up in age. We thought it would be good for them/us to get together. So Trina organized a road trip to visit Aunt Doris in Michigan.

We embarked on our journey July 10th, 4:30am, headed towards Michigan. It reminded me of how much I enjoy my extended family and the importance of fellowshiping with them.

There are four sisters living; all of my mom's brothers have past. Only Aunt Essie travelled with us. My mom (Chicago) and Aunt Clara (Alabama) had other obligations and couldn't make the trip (next time).

Day One July 10th - We arrived.

We arrived about 9:15 am July 10, 2009. Pictured Shirley, Aunt Doris and Essie, and Bnai.




Aunt Essie, Trina, and Aunt Doris


This last time Aunt Doris saw Lauren was sixteen years ago at a family reunion in Tennessee. Trina is re-introducing Lauren to Aunt Doris. July 10, 2009.


Destiny (Paris)



Brianna, Quinten, and Lauren


Trina and Destiny


Cousin Shirley always pulled together and ready. This woman is the epitome of hospitality. Before we could all get into Aunt Doris's house, she was getting to work on putting dinner together. BTW- She's Paris's mom.

After initial visit, we headed to the hotel, leaving Aunt Essie to spend time with Aunt Doris.

Day Two - July 11, 2009. Aunt Doris took us to her favorite all you can eat restaurant (Fire Mountain). It reminded me of the buffet restaurant in the Stratosphere (Las Vegas). Hmmm..., Hmmm.., Good eatin'.

Aunt Doris, Trina, and Aunt Essie


The Young People


Partial group shot

Later that day, we went back to the hotel: swimming, joking, laughing, and playing spades until 2:30 in the morning.



Day Three - July 12, 2009, 11:00am

We left the hotel headed back to Aunt Doris's home. We talked, laughed and then prayed for a safe return to Chicago.

On the ride back, Destiny danced to Michael Jackson's "Beat It".

As I mature, I become more appreciative of the time that God has given me. Just back from a visit with my Aunt Doris (Michigan), who is well into her 70's. Also visiting my Aunt Essie (82) and several of my cousins. It was wonderful and I'm looking forward to the next gathering. Both of my aunts are well and able to take care of themselves (and others). It's a blessing and I pray it's in "my" future.

Good road trip. Summertime and the living is easy, fun with family is always a plus.



20 comments:

  1. What a wonderful trip. Family is important. In fact it's the only thing matters.

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  2. OMG I live in Michigan! What part of Michigan where you at?
    Beautiful pics of your family!

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  3. Hi Gold - We were in Detroit/Inkster, Michigan.

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  4. Oh my, that Destiny is some kind of CUTE!! What a special trip.

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  5. What a WONDERFUL trip!!!! You're so lucky to have so many of your mom's relatives still with you, and they are lucky to have you all with them!

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  6. A beautiful gathering. Thank you for sharing it with us. It's very uplifting. :)

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  7. As someone without family, I always get a buzz seeing pictures like these. You are blessed to have so many of your relatives still with you. I love seeing several generations together, it warms my heart! Thanks for sharing.

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  8. You had a beautiful trip and Thanks for sharing.

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  9. Looks like you had a wonderful trip!

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  10. Thas so much for sharing! How awesome is family! Glad you had a great time, you are truly blessed!

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  11. Glad you had a wonderful trip. Family means so much and time spent with family never seems enough. Thanks for sharing!

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  12. What a wonderful family time - priceless!

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  13. I love the smile on your Aunt Doris's face as she is meeting Lauren. Priceless!

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  14. What a beautiful family and thanks for sharing photos of your trip. Getting together with family is alway special!

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  15. Looks like a good time was had by all:) Family time is priceless and it's important for young children to meet their older relatives and learn family history. These are the memories that last forever.

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  16. Sounds like you had a lovely visit. So nice to have so many generations all together!

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  17. Just pricless! The time spent with your lovely family is wonderful. Thank you for sharing and reminding us all to be thankful for our families and the bonds between us.

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  18. Family time is so special. I'm glad your trip was so awesome. :):):)

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  19. You are blessed with a beautiful family. Family is so very important. Thanks for sharing!

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  20. You come from some beautiful women!!! They still look great...You are bleessed to have them all, as I am sure you know.

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