Campfires at Grandma's

Let me start by saying I began this post over a month ago and it has been very difficult to finish.


Many years ago my Grandfather who has since passed away built this beautiful and very well used campfire pit in the backyard of the home he and my Grandmother shared. This pit is lit whenever we get together. Whether it is a small group of us or a larger group, it is always lit. We sit around it and talk and tell stories (scary or otherwise) and it is a wonderful memory each and every time.

This last time (a month ago) we went down there my Grandmother was no longer at the home. It became apparent that she needed more care than she could be given at her home she lived in for more than 30 years. It was not by any means an easy decision to be made, however a very necessary one. Safety became an issue, as well as the physical strain it was taking on her caregivers.

I have many memories at this fire pit and I hope to have more to come. However, nobody knows the future of this home.



Enjoying the ice cream Melinda made



Watching the stars







Let the scary stories begin





I just love this picture

The "Memory Walk"

Last weekend we got another opportunity to take part in the "Memory Walk". This is to raise money and awareness for Alzheimer's research. This is very close to my heart as I have a Grandmother and had a Great-Grandmother who have or had this debilitating disease.


Here's little Ruby who is able to come to work with me most days to help.




Warming up



Beginning our walk.







Part of the "Senior Helpers" team. (Michael is taking the picture)

Off to the temple...

After the games we went Olive Garden and then up to the temple. Melinda had never been to the Reno temple. It was closed because it was conference weekend.








A little horseplay...



dogpile!


Mid-flight


A beautiful sunset




Aren't they cute?


We went from high 80's to a wind tunnel...


Another beautiful view from the opposite side...


A perfect end to a beautiful day...

The Celtic Festival

Once again we were off to the Celtic Festival. This time mark was able to meet up with his group here in Reno. (Last year he was unable to make it. ) It was so nice to have Mark and Melinda stay here for a few days with us. We really enjoyed their company.



Playing in the castle


A few more games.


We played the catpipes



There's Uncle Mark and his partner.





I just love this picture... Ummmmm back wash...



Jessica, Melinda, My mom, and Cai Lynn.


Face painting...


The Caber toss... he's pretty good. He won!