Shirleyfest & Tinkerbell

For the past 5 years, our end of June has centered largely around Lucy's birth and then her birthday celebrations. But before she came along, the end of June was all about Grandma Shirley, whose birthday was the day before Lucy's. Because of this, Sheri's side of the family has often gathered for a reunion at that time. And more often than not, the reunion has been in Utah at "The White House," which is the house where Grandma Shirley grew up and also raised her own family in. This year we gathered for the sad occasion of Shirley's memorial service, but we also managed to have some great family fun during the weekend. The gathering was capped off with Lucy's 4th birthday party, Tinkerbell style!

What a treat it was for Lucy to get to celebrate with cousins and aunts and uncles, and as you can see in the party pics, 14 is not too old to play Tinkerbell party games. : ) Here's cousin Jake successfully "finding the fairy" in the garden:

And cousins from both of Sheri's sides of the family gather in the shade to play "Pixie Bingo."

It was really special that the party was held on Shirley's birthday, in the very same backyard where her 4th birthday may have been held 84 years ago. It's pretty amazing to think of all the birthday parties for Lucy's grandma and great aunts and uncles that have been held in that same spot, not to mention the other family fun that has taken place at the White House over the years. Lucy had a great time with her cousins, soaking up some of that family fun.


We love you Grandma Shirley, and we miss you. We'll try our best to carry on by loving one another better. Thanks for being such a loving presence in our family for so long. All our lives have been blessed by your love.