Daniel's grandparents, Warren and Ann Watson, celebrated their 50th Anniversary on Friday, July17th, with a party following on Saturday the 18th. In honor of their Golden Anniversary, their six daughters (Shelly, Debbie, Kathy, Renee, Melissa, Becci) planned for months to make this a truly special occasion. Granny and Grandaddy were presented this beautiful cedar bench handmade by Daniel's Uncle Bill.
Rivers really enjoyed her first trip to Alabama. She especially liked playing with her second cousin Lila. Here, she and Lila are dancing with Lila's grandmother, Aunt Kathy, at the reception.
Rivers loves her Aunt Hannah!
Daniel's Uncle Donnie and cousin Blake look like brothers rather than father and son! We just couldn't get over how strong of a resemblance they shared!
After going to Granny's and Grandaddy's church on Sunday, Mrs. Crowson, Hannah, Melissa, and I went out flea market shopping while Uncle Rick took Daniel, Rivers, and Uncle Owen to his church to make boxes for Operation Christmas Child. Rivers had a wonderful time stuffing 4 boxes, and when we joined them, we took a little tour around their amazing children's center. It even had a three story indoor playground! Aunt Hannah and I couldn't resist going inside to help Rivers through all of the tunnels and the spiral slide.
The morning that we left Alabama, Aunt Melissa took Rivers outside by their pool to draw with sidewalk chalk. Rivers loved spending time with Melissa while we were there. Both Melissa and Rick were so sweet to her, singing and playing with her doll, Kate, and letting Rivers follow them around the house. I imagine that their house is a good bit quieter this week!
We spent the morning at Granny and Grandaddy's on Tuesday. Rivers and Granny cut flowers and made a beautiful little bouquet.
Rivers then wanted to help Grandaddy water the flowers, and Granny even gave her a little water pitcher of her very own to take back with us. Rivers and Grandaddy had a great time singing songs like "The Old Gray Mare (she ain't what she used to be)." It was hilarious hearing his deep bass voice and her little soprano voice singing this song, a song I've heard my own grandfather sing about my grandmother in recent years (jokingly of course.)
We had a wonderful trip visiting with Nanny's family. Rivers, by the way, has her eyes open in this picture. Recently, she just cannot seem to keep from squinting her eyes almost closed when she smiles. I guess she's just that happy!
It's always so hard to say goodbye when you've had so much fun visiting! Melissa had a few tears in her eyes as Rivers said out the window, "Rivers has left the building," as we drove away. We miss everyone already!
Mrs. Crowson sat in the back with Rivers most of the way to and from Alabama. Rivers enjoyed playing beauty shop with a new play set from Cracker Barrel. Nanny was so patient!
We had an amazing time away! I didn't take very many pictures while at the 50th party, so I hope to add more of the rest of the family when I can borrow Mrs. Crowson's card.
