Holy Smackadandies, What a Crowd!

The Labordes made it all the way from San Diego

Us Newfies from Wisconsin weren't the only ones who made their way to Nan's house this summer, the California cousins popped over to visit for a few days as well.

And though I didn't make it to the Christmas in July party that Nan had with her children, you can be sure I wouldn't miss the big feed that was put on the day after.

There were candy canes and gifts for the little ones, and young and old alike had a great time.  Even the youngest (I think, it's hard to keep track) of Nan's great grandchildren flew in from Alberta to get passed around and fussed over.

Baby Charles got all the attention

An old fashioned tree, decorated with tinsel was up for all to enjoy. 

And it was a grand time to re-connect...if you could hear anyone over the crowd.  Over 60 people showed up, after all.

If you come to Newfoundland you better enjoy carrots and cabbage and potatoes because there will be lots of that everywhere you go.  And a tub of Eversweet margarine to toss on it.

Sisters Geraldine, Margaret and Agatha - just 3 of 13 siblings!

There were other days at Nan's when the sun came out and the crowd was smaller but no less jolly.

Me and Aunt Rosemary

Katrina and Charlie only made it for a few days, but Nan was delighted they could make it.

We did some counting and she had 13 children, 26 grandchildren and I believe she has 25 great grandchildren but I may have forgotten someone...and 2 more are on their way!

Cali and Sarah check out the old photographs

I dragged out the old photographs and meant to buy albums and organize them before I left but ran out of time.  It will give me something to do if I go home in December for a short visit!

Smile you're on Candid Camera!

The littlest ones adored big American cousins like Cory, and Cooper and Jack from California too.

Dinner plate alert!

Before you leave though you best look out for children, and make sure there aren't any dinner plates sitting on top of your vehicle.

My Mom and Rosemary back from
"Breakfast at Tiffany's"

Formal or informal, big crowd or small, we always end up stopping at Nan's house for at least a few minutes because it's all about family in Newfoundland.