Gower Family Reunion

32 years ago, my grandparents, Jim and Jennie Gower started a tradition. They invited their 7 children and their families to a weekend at the Lake of the Ozarks. For about 25 of those years, we all gathered at a little place called “The Temple”. It had a cockroach problem, smelled like dead fish, and hadn’t been updated since the 50’s…but it was tradition– and it was fun. We’ve since moved up a couple of notches to a place called Big Bear Resort. It’s just the right size for our family of 30+ to pretty much take over the deck, the pool and the fishing dock. Here are a few highlights from the weekend…

Norah and Maren in some masks I brought home from my work trip in New Orleans. If only I had a picture of “Maren the Witch”. Uncle Chris helped her turn a hoodie into a cape and she borrowed my “pointy” shoes to complete the look. She ran around with a straw as her magic wand, putting spells on everyone and cackling like the Wicked Witch of the West. I actually think she’s going to be an actress…

Luke, the cutest baby in the world. He is so squeezable and loveable it’s not even funny. He got a new shirt from the Gap Outlets that says “Ladies, get in line”. So fitting! I think he’s going to win the Cutest Baby Contest this 4th of July in Hannibal!!!

In her words, Maren just “can’t get enough of that little guy”

What’s a trip to the lake without putt putt?? Maren got the only hole in one!

My little snacker, Norah bug. I probably took in as many calories in 2 days as I typically do in an entire week…and Norah wasn’t far behind. At least chubby is cute when you’re one!!! It was so fun to really see Norah’s personality come through this weekend…she is such a ham. Oh, and I can’t forget the fact that she said “Chris” this weekend. Those girls love their Uncle Chris!

Maren caught her first fish! Then another, and another and another…

Sweet nightgown! I am so glad this shirt is getting some good use! ☺

Finally, the big news of the weekend…Carter baby #3 is on the way!!!!!!!!! Lindsay is due in January and I absolutely cannot wait! On the way up to the pool the first day, Maren and Norah came out in some really cute “big sister” shirts from Etsy. My first thought was, “shouldn’t Norah’s say little sister??”…and then it occurred to me that my perfectionist sister would never make that mistake!!! I can’t wait to meet the 3rd Carter baby…I’m sure he or she will be as wonderful as their older sisters. What a blessing!

All in all, a great weekend! I am so lucky to have such a fun, loving and all around awesome family. ☺