"Rish" family reunion

James visiting with Uncle Dennis and Aunt Bonnie (Dad's sister)

McKenna and Joshua (Yes, they were very sweaty!)

Joshua and McKenna

Oldest and youngest!

McKenna (Sheldon & Erin's daughter)

Dawson (Sheldon and Erin's son)

Aunt Mary (Dad's sister)

Diane and her hubby (cousin)

Uncle Charlie and Aunt Ann (Dad's brother)

Uncle Gilbert and Aunt Sharon (Dad's brother)

Uncle Chet and Aunt Sherry (Dad's brother)

Our family

Visiting ~ Uncle Chet, Aunt Mary, Aunt Ann, Uncle Charlie

We made our way to Michigan early Saturday morning a couple weeks ago to connect with family members whom we haven't seen for many years. I was anticipating the day, for I hadn't seen many of my aunts and uncles for quite a few years.

Traveling through the beautiful Michigan countryside reminded me so much of my childhood. I always thought Michigan was a gorgeous state, and I still haven't changed my mind! The thick canopy of pine trees adds such picturesque beauty to the hilly landscape. I love it and bask in the memories of years gone by when my brother and I would play among these green beauties behind our home. The heavy blanket of pine needles and ferns in the forest on Riverside Camp (where we lived) will always be embedded in my mind.

We arrived just in time for a potluck lunch on a sweltering Michigan day. I was looking forward to cooler temperatures. Boy, was I ever wrong! The day was disgustingly humid, but thankfully, a little breezy. I enjoyed seeing my uncles, aunts, and cousins, some of whom I have never met before. All in all, the fellowship was nice, the food delicious, the day hot, and the trip tiring. But, I am glad we all could get together again after so many years. By the way, all my dad's brothers and sisters were present except for Aunt Judy who lives in Idaho, and Uncle Jim who has passed away. That counted for seven "Rish" siblings present! Twelve children were born into the "Rish" home, but only nine lived.