The Details

What is so enjoyable, so satisfying....

.... about getting together for events such as Mom's Birthday?

We do the same activities practically every year.

Same rituals, same places, same people.

So how in the world do we squeeze so much fun out of it?

For me, it's all in the details.

Detail #1 - It was a beautiful evening. No rain! And lots of smiles.

Detail #2 - Mom is wearing her earrings that I bought for her birthday! I wasn't sure she'd like them - she can be PICKY!!! - but I think I scored!
Detail #3 - Ellie is always the first to hug her grandparents. She breaks into a run when she sees them and gives them big hugs, as though she hasn't seen them in two years. Sweet.Detail #4 - Luke, the only grandson, is the first to be ornery. And then he stays that way the entire night. He just can't help it. He adds some spice, that's for sure.

Detail #5 - Is it weird that I love the detail of sweat? Luke's hair is wet with sweat and in a few short years, when he is a stinky teen, I'm sure the sweat will be gross. But for now, I'm loving the sweat.Detail #6 - Luke always takes these occasions to give Lauren a huge kiss, apparently while putting her in a stranglehold too. She doesn't look too mad about it this time.Detail #7 - Papa always calls for a group picture. No matter where we are or how many people are there or how many people in the group, we take the dreaded group picture. It usually seems stressful at the time, but when I load my pictures, I'm always glad we did it. Detail #8 - Kami is always the first to be active. Here she is playing with Lauren on Lauren's new trampoline!!!Detail #9 - Kami being active again, this time playing basketball with cousin Hallie.

Detail #10 - Tom watching in the background, just being Tom. Quiet. Observant. Tom. Who I love.
Detail #11 - Kim's kids can't help but look beautiful at all times of the day. Here is Lauren in her adorable outfit. She's a cutie!
Detail #12 - Maggie Rae blowing bubbles. In her own little world. But too funny and talking up a storm. Stunning. Detail #13 - Scott loves his kids. It shows in his eyes.Detail #14 - He loves mine too. He is always so good to them.

Detail #15 - Ellie is wearing her "This is my lucky shirt" shirt. You can see it too well in the picture, but trust me, it's sooooo Ellie. Detail #16 - Look at their faces as they sing happy birthday to Nana! What a blessing!

Detail #17 - Nana turned 70 with grace and beauty and much love for her family.