Fall Means Family

I love fall - mostly because to finally get relief from the summer heat which is especially true this year after a scorching summer - but also because fall is a great time of family gatherings.  Both of my clans hold annual gatherings in the fall beginning with the Johnson Family Reunion early each September.

It's always a good time visiting family.  Getting to bed at 4 AM after the Battle of Bristol made this reunion a little more tiring but since we stayed overnight in Boone and were only about 45 minutes away there was plenty of time for a lie-in this morning before rising and dining at the hotel then setting off for North Wilkesboro. The turn-out was a little low this year but for those attending we had a great time catching up.  It was a beautiful fall day.  Jagger and Cowen and Silas played hard on the playground (and all somehow survived even through a fall off the climbing wall).

Let's all check out the newest addition: L to R - Nola, Gary, Stellena & Victoria all looking at Killian

James, Gary & Dad

Me & Lucille

The McCarter Clan at Metcalf Bottoms is always one of my favorite family gatherings - it's one of my favorite locations in the GSMNP.  I simplified this year and it was even more relaxing.

Sitting and watching the fire: Eva, Dad, Eddie & John

Looking Delicious

Chad, Amy, Amanda & Shaun

Fall is when we celebrate birthdays too with both Dad and Sheena being honored.  Everyone's schedules were in a rush so it was just me and Dad on his actual birthday for a nice dinner at Chop House including a special dessert delivered for him.  But we all managed to gather for a combined event at the house just after Sheena's big day.  Even little August was able to make an appearance.

Gifts for Sheena with a little help from Charleston & Reagan

These two stinkers are a mess!

August and his Papaw