The Gathering

Could this be another Michael McLean song? I don't want to take the time to check.

My mom is part of a pretty big family. She's the oldest of 10 kids. Most live in Utah. I live next to the mother of these children, my Grandma K****. Is that too much info for an identity thief?

Well, we gather together every other month to get together and do what we do best: eat and talk. Girls only. My sisters, Mom and I were in charge of hosting it this month so we had it my new pad...across the driveway from the previously mentioned and beloved grandmother. This new abode I still need to blog about.....some other day. Anyway, it is because of her that we all stay together and have these gatherings. Thank you Grandma!

We had fun decorating and I only got stressed out at the last minute because Tyler was supposed to be taking the kids to Samuel's T-ball game and we couldn't find his shoes (which rarely happens, usually it's Jocelyn's missing shoes) and it was picture day and I was freaking out. Luckily, they made it in time, even though late, they were on time for the "Mormon standard time" pictures and game.

We made delicious panini's and gourmet tres leches coconut cupcakes (found from food network) Seriously, they are to die for. I made some pinwheels for the table, hung some pennant banners and a garland. And my mom and sister made these Martha Stewart pom-pom balls, all the while Tyler was mocking our desire to beautify the place. He thought it was such a waste of time. I am sure he's not the only male (and possibly female) out there that would agree with him. But it was FUN for us and so festive :) I also made these new cupcake toppers. You think I should sell them in my shop?

I love my big 'ol family and we had some good laughs and memories made. Thanks klan!

"Auntie" Allie (who had the best story of the day), Gma Knell and back of Lydia.

Great Aunt Claudia, the kids often refer to her as Grandma too.

The panini's

Decor and view into our kitchen.

Pinwheels on dangerously divine cupcakes.

More food and decor

Uncle Mark, cousin Berkeley and her baby Claude, who is two days older than Cecily.

Me having a good time. Seriously though, that is not all my back, it's a black chair behind my black shirt. I'm not that poor postured (is that grammatically correct?)

Two of my younger cousins Sadie and Emma reacting to stories being told. Tyler, who crashed the girls only party, along with Mark, is obviously interested in all of our tales.

The pinwheel cupcake topper. What do you think?