Tuesday, August 25, 2015

Lighten Family Reunion (Sundance, Utah)

Ever since I joined the Lighten family I noticed something.

They are a very close family and like to spend time together.

Which is something pretty special because when you spend time with those you love, tight bonds form.

Bonds that we are hoping will stretch into eternity.

Trev comes from a family of 9 - mom, dad, and 7 kids.  

Those kids have all grown up and have children of their own.

38 in all I believe...last I checked.

That's right.  Geoff and Jill Lighten can boast 38 grandchildren!

So as you can imagine, when we all get together it is a party!

This year, Jill decided it was time to do the First Annual Lighten Family Reunion.

She was sweet enough to get a cabin up in Sundance, Utah, and as many as could be there showed up!  

Here most of us are:



And Jill with most of her grandkids.


Crazy to think that there were a whole bunch missing for various reasons. :(  But neat to see so many gathered and connecting.

Here is a little breakdown of what we did.

Lots of hanging at and around the cabin.  Games, hot tubbing, exploring, and eating yummy food.  We also hosted a "Who's to Blame" court where the kids shared their biggest fight story and the adults were the jury deciding who was guilty.  It was probably one of the funniest parts of the whole weekend!  We will definitely be doing that again. :)


















One morning a big group of us hiked up to Stewart Falls.  


























We also took a little rendezvous into another part of the canyon to have "The Lighten Olympics" and hike to Bridal Veil Falls.  We Lightens like hiking...something I think passed on from Jill who has always been an avid hiker. 
























































Oh what a fun reunion!!

I don't think I can describe in words how much fun we had or how much we missed those that couldn't make it. 

But all I can say is that I am so glad we did it and can't wait to do it again next year! :)

On our way home, we visited Grandpa Lighten who I am sure was there in spirit. :)



It just so happened to be Geoff and Jill's anniversary while we were up at the cabin.

What a neat way to celebrate.  Being all together.

I sure love being a Lighten.