Celebrating summer

I think I may have mentioned that most of my family lives away. . . most, in fact, over six hours away. We find a few opportunities to get together, but not nearly enough for my liking.

This weekend my parents hosted their annual family and friends reunion. It's one of those backyard affairs with lawn chairs scattered about, tables set up beneath shade trees and ice cream makers churning continually. The great thing about the assembly is that it recognizes that our families are made up of many different types of people, many different kinds of relationships, some blood, some by selection. . . but no matter the connection, our family is vast, our family is blessed and our family is loved.

Many of those dear to us trekked from far and wide, much to my delight and pleasure. My beloved and I found ourselves parked beneath a tree, slouching comfortably in our lawn chairs as a breeze swept over us, iced tea clanking in our glasses, family and friends chatting all around us. And it was a good day, a very good day.

In addition to the relaxed and comfortable company, the highlight for me was a very special treat. . . This year my brother, our own personal ice cream man, churned out the most incredible cherry Italian tea ice. Mmmmmm, I am still salivating at the thought of it.

After too much blackberry cobbler, a little too much sun and far too many '"goodbyes", we made our way home. The ice cream frenzy carried us along and we eventually made a stop by the new Cold Stone Creamery. . . and enjoyed a nice walk along the riverfront, just in time to catch the sunset. . . the perfect way to cap off our day.

My brother and soon-to-be-sister-in-law joined us later for a movie, napping and conversation. A fellow knitter and one of those people that makes you feel instantly at home, I was glad to get some time with her.

This morning at a breakfast out we bid farewell to Prince P and his fiance, along with her parents who had also come to join in the festivities. What a nice feeling to incorporate two such nurturing, open, loving people. I often say the best thing about having brothers is that you also get sisters-in-law. . . and their families as well.

The recent rain and sunshine have been kind to my tomato plants. . . ours are producing a little later than everyone else's as we slacked a bit on getting them in the ground.