Summer Reunion, Part 1 ~ July 26th-27th

A definite highlight of our summer was a quick weekend trip up to Kamloops. We had the pleasure of also going two years ago for an adoption reunion of our group that had traveled to China in Sept. 2010. Grandpa and Grandma Friend opened their beautiful home up to our six families again, which was so generous of them. After settling into our hotel downtown, we came by their home to get reacquainted and have lasagna, how kind! Isabella was there, as the gathering was at her grandparents' home.

 The girls were quiet together at first, although soon Isabella
 was complimenting Nora on her hair accessories.

 These two are 4 days apart in age, Nora being the youngest.  

Playing in the fountain...

 ... soon had them both wet.

 Lewis was quick to get in the pool.

 Thomas was content to watch at first...

 Enjoying the sunshine...

 Who needs toys?!

 ...and picking up with Isabella where she left off last time?

 Both girls like to goof around, thanks to the guys in their lives!

We briefly saw one other family that evening as everyone came in at different times. Saturday morning we had an awesome breakfast at our hotel before heading back to the Friends' home for the day. Didn't take long for things to heat up outside, so soon we all headed into the pool, hats and all. For most of the morning, we caught up visiting whilst getting sprayed by the kids. The best thing was having such a great camaraderie despite not having been together since Chinese New Year, and that wasn't even everyone at the time.

 Not caring about the fashion police... we were avoiding burns!

 Someone in dire need of sunscreen...

 The only young guys in attendance, Lewis and Thomas are good sports to hang
out with so many replicas of their little sister. Although, they loved the pool, too!

 Five out of six girls tolerated being squished for a little while.

 Down to four now...

 Just couldn't help feeling we were a family of sorts with our out-of-town relatives!

 Time for lunch... a lovely barbecue.

 Bev took this lovely picture, thank you so much!

 All kinds of summer treats!

 Layna gets the older girls, Amelia and Taylor, interested in her upcoming craft session.

 Gillian with Saffron, who just loved the water.

 Explaining the craft guidelines. "You get what you get,
and you don't get upset"... love that saying!

Nora zones out after all that swimming...

 Smiley Ai-Li, usually too quick for the camera.

Adorable Amelia ~ we loved her hair. 

  Petite Jenna, the oldest by almost a year.

Bev and Jenna, always looking beautiful.

Nora is getting inspired.

Fashionable Isabella likes heart and flowers.

 Nadine, Clay and Dean take a break in the shade.

After out lovely afternoon in the sun, it was time for dinner which was of course... Chinese!

 Nora was enjoying every minute of this adventure with her friends.

 And like usual, more leftovers than what we actually ate!

 Grandpa and Grandma Friend on the right...

 Our China family!

We headed down to Riverside Park after our delicious meal, to enjoy "Music in the Park", although I know we enjoyed the playground the most.  It was lovely to enjoy the warmth, view the sunset and just play together.

 Having grown up here from 1973-1977, I have fond memories of this park,
 even though the "retired" train engine is no longer there! :) Likely too dangerous now...

 Scott got the guys playing football later.

 The older girls were great at helping out.

 After awhile I noticed we were getting a few looks as multiple
little girls took over the swings and other equipment... too funny.

 Bev, our great photographer, captured all the girls standing and mostly
looking after multiple attempts, with little girls falling off etc.!

 Robert, Gillian and Saffron.

 Another photo attempt that quickly turned into a game?!

 At least all were tired when bedtime finally came!

 Nora is having some issues with her pants falling down!

 Everyone pile on Layna... she is so much fun. :)

 I think she's surrendered now...

And our last day I'll continue on my next post... sorry this is taking forever! :)