Goodman Family Reunion

Even though I already posted our Goodman Family Reunion pics to Facebook, I need to include them here in the history of the Mesa Browns.  Someday, someday, I'll publish by blog book and be glad I've tried to record most of the significant (and not-so-significant but real nevertheless) happenings of our lives.

The reunion festivities were held on Saturday, November 12, 2011 outside at my parents' house in Mesa.  Thanks to Dale for putting the wheels in motion so that we could all assemble in honor of Grandpa Harry's birthday (which was the day before on Veteran's Day).  This was the first year that Grandpa watched the reunion from up on high instead of from his seat at the table, but we know we was there watching over us.  What a great posterity he left!  We are grateful that Grandma Rita was there and almost all of our crew.  Aunt Katrina said the official headcount was 95, so we were probably 20-ish short of everyone.

Unfortunately, when it came time for pics, not everyone was there at the same time, so we just did the best we could.  Here are all the present-at-the-time granddaughters and granddaughters in law of Harry & Rita.  Actually, we managed to get all of the granddaughters minus Laura who didn't make the reunion, plus all  the granddaughters in law who were there (sorry we took this before Shari arrived, but she was there too).  Pretty foxy group if I do say so myself :)

All the great granddaughters of Harry & Rita that were there.  If my math is right, I think we are just missing six of the great granddaughters.  Not bad!  There was no chance of getting the great grandsons together for a photo op.  They scarfed their food and then took off into all the yards to play football and whiffle ball and skate and ride bikes and do all the things that cousins love to do.  Glad they were having fun for sure!

I know, I know, we really need to cheer up.  Seriously, Jules, are we ever not laughing when we get together?

Uncle Dale & Aunt Nedra

Michael & Craig were best buddies in their early teenage years and have so many fun memories together.

So the turnout of the male first cousins for this photo is weak, but hey, at least we tried, right?  We're missing Luke (who left after the eats), Willie (up at BYU), Van (on his mission in Atlanta), Matt & Joe who were playing football in the side yard, and Dale Jr. and Mark who weren't able to be there.

Ryan, Jeremy, Mike, Matt & Joe

The Three Amigos, Los Hermanos (Dale, Steve & Jim).  Such GOOD MEN these Goodman men are!

Note Afton in her stylie red pants right in the middle of the boys' football game, along with cousin, Elizabeth

Lots of visiting.  That's what it's all about.  Oh, and the food...lots of good Mexican food for sure.  

Second cousins Taylor & Kylie Chesley, who have become great pals with Afton & Barrett after spending a week with us beach camping last month.  So glad we did that together!

Hopefully we'll keep up with the reunions and other family gatherings through the years.  I love getting together with all the Goodman cousins.  Truly, we are blessed to be a part of such a wonderful family!