Uncle Joe's 80th

A few weeks ago we went to visit my family in Middle Tennessee to celebrate my uncle Joe's 80th birthday.  We always have fun staying at my aunt Cathy's and love to visit everyone!  My mom even came up with my aunts and uncle from Florida, making it even more fun for Paul, who got to spend lots of time with Grammy!

As soon as we got there, we spent some time walking around on the farm.  Uncle Alvin took us out to visit this newborn calf.  We also spent some time throwing sticks into the branches of a persimmon tree.  They were pretty high up.  I only managed to knock one loose.

The calf in the distance had just been born that morning!

Paul kept saying "moo" after seeing the calf and his mama.

That night was the main event -- Joe's birthday party at the senior citizen center in Woodbury!  All of my mom's (living) siblings came, which is pretty amazing, since there are 10 of them!

Paul adores his cousin A.B., who also adores him, since he keeps asking his mom for a little brother or sister!  He is a great cousin to Paul!

Paul chatting with A.B.

Aren't they the cutest?

Aunt Cathy/Granny Blue with cousins Bella, Paul and Ella.

Paul listening intently to Ella (left, 3) and Bella (right, 5).

Bella, Paul and Ella.  This picture cracks me up.

Cuties!

Favorite family photo!

My mom and her brothers and sisters (left to right): Joan, Mark, Cathy, Mom, Lynda, Joe, Joyce, Ovie, Jackie and Jean.

Lots of playing!  Paul had the best time running around.

I couldn't quite get a good picture because they were running, but Paul was leading A.B. around by this string!  He was so happy about it.

My sweet birthday-buddy-cousin Emilie!

I have a lot of favorite cousins but Jon Marc is pretty high on the list.  His little girl Sadie Joe is so cute!

Emilie, me, Paul, Katie Beth and Bella!

We had so much fun at the party!  It was great to get the chance to honor Uncle Joe.  We love that we are able to make quick trips to see the family while we are living here in Memphis.  It will be even better next fall when we will only be an hour away!  I am looking forward to that!  Especially because Paul and Sadie Joe and Bella and A.B. will have to have some weekly play dates.  :)

That night we got back to "home base" (Aunt Cathy's) pretty late -- 9 p.m.  We were all worn out and fell asleep before 10 p.m., which is highly unusual for this night owl!