Left-to-right, by family: Emily; Colette (19 months), Ashley & Sam; Amy, Josh, Isaiah & Becca; Dad & Mom, Jon, Ashleigh & Megan (6 months); Dan & Isabelle; Joey & Lauren (girlfriend).
This Christmas we gathered in Dover, PA, for a Sutter Family reunion – the first time we’ve all been together in two years. Josh and I (and the kids) arrived the Wednesday before Christmas. My parents had a little birthday party for Becca to welcome us. We had to have the party twice since Becca fell asleep at her “first” party.
Thursday we drove to NJ to visit Grandma Sutter’s. It was Isaiah’s first time to meet his Great Grandma Sutter and Great Uncle Johnny.
My brother Jon and his family arrived from SC Friday evening. Jon’s & Ashleigh’s daughter, Megan, is 3 weeks younger than Isaiah.
Sunday evening we went to Rocky Ridge park and saw lights and Santa Clause. It was freezing cold. Becca was so excited to see Santa that she was speechless when she finally sat on his lap. Dan & Isabelle arrived Sunday evening.
Christmas Eve we celebrated my dad’s birthday – he was born on Christmas Day, but we usually celebrate on Christmas Eve. My brother Sam and his family arrived late Christmas Eve.
One of the highlights of Becca’s trip was playing the trumpet with Grandpa. My dad has started practicing the trumpet every night. He had a cornet for Becca to play with him and she loved playing every night before bed with him. She also got to play his drums and harmonica.
We enjoyed our time with my family. I enjoyed getting to know my sisters-in-law a little more . . . not sure how my brothers got themselves such nice wives. We’re very thankful to my parents and Emily for all the cleaning they did before and after — it takes a lot of work to have 14 extra people invade your home! We’re also thankful for all the food, heat, and hot water . . . as we know the water/electric/food bills are greatly increased for the month of December.
What great pictures of all of you. Wow, your Mom and Dad certainly had a full house and I’m sure they loved every minute of it. I’m sure it seems rather quiet to them now. I’m so glad you were all able to be together! What fun and precious memories!
Great family picture!! Looks like you all had a fun time together. Love the pictures of Becca playing instruments with her grampa. She’s going to follow the family tradition of music – on both sides. Cute picture of Isaiah and Meghan with the photographer in the picture as well. I’m sure he charmed everyone with his smiles.
Loved reading the itinerary! We did a lot in one week!! Thanks so much for making the trip up to see us!! It was a wonderful Sutter Reunion! 🙂