August as always begins with the River Romp the first weekend held at the Bar_UK Ranch in LaCenter Wa.
The 28th year was especially sweet since so many of our own family were in attendance. Our two new Great Granddaughters were there for their first River Romp. Maybe too little (Jessica 10 months - parents are Jesse and Amanda) and (Ana 5 months - parents are Justin and Ashley). They were happy little girls and did very well considering that the temperature reached 102 degrees F on the main event day of Saturday. We all took turns dipping in the Lewis River for relief - including the little ones.
Ernie and Diana's family were all there to help with the babies - a relief to parents and of course Diana was really involved as she reluctantly assumes the title "Grandma". To the right is Jessica and her auntie Asia who is always willing to help and who spent almost as much time in the River as I did!
Ron & I arrived on Thursday so we could select the best camping spot. We found ourselves next to a broken water line - so the first project after setting up camp was for Ron to grab a shovel and help out Jeff and Rolf get started on the big job of digging it out - letting it drain and fixing it. I was amuzed by all the mud - what fun!
It wasn't long before Jesse came to help and Ernie who was recovering from a spider bite that lead to Merca - was not allowed to help. We are so glad he is finally recovered from this serious situation.
After the usual difficulties - requiring Jeff to kneel and think - the water geizer was subdued and the assignment of fun and good food continued.
We saved a spot for Angel and Jerry - and were delighted to learn Ron's neice Ann was with them. We had not seen Ann for about 30 years. What a joy it was to listen to this beautiful strong woman tell about experiences in India where she and her family lived for a time assigned by Walmart. I had some amazing insights about how the evolution of our planet is slowly occuring as people who have been enslaved for centuries are beginning to learn about the possibilities of opportunities that we here in America take for granted.
Rons sister Erna who was recently hospitalized with serious heart conditions was there in the motor home and it was wonderful spending time with her - and Ron's sister Cyndi and family. After all it is a Family Reuntion and this year it was GRAND thanks to Pet & Ulf who have hosted this opportunity to re-unite for going on 30 time.
Rolf & Deana fished in Alaska before flying down for the RR with 100 lb of salmon - of which the Chefs grilled 75 pounds along with chicken to feed the crowd that usually exceeds 100 people. Try cooking over a grill in 102 degrees. Thank You to all the Brave People! The pot luck brought by attendees along with the grilled treats made for a wonderful huge meal in the middle of a very hot day. A few brave young people took part in a relay race as I sat in the shade of a tarp panting.
The Lip Sync that eveing was spectacular. Two of the little kids who started performing when they were 4 - 5 years old are interviewing for careers on Broadway - New York. Wow. Such talent.
Just as the River Romp ended Maria and her family arrived from Sweden. We were able to host them for only 3 days - but it was grand seeing our Swedish Daughter Maria (exchange student with us in 1980) and meet again her beautiful family. Helena is 16 and will be spending the year in Seattle in her exchange hosted by Stina's family. Simon is her "little" brother towering over her here - and he is well know in his community in Sweden for his acting abilities. He too would love to try out on Broadway! Little Lilly is the happiest two year old I have very met. Even though she doen't yet understand English - we got along really fine. What a little doll. We took in the Saturday Market shown above and then walked around the State Capital for a while. Thank You for coming Maria! We LOVE you so much and look forward to your return for the 30th River Romp!
We enjoyed Swedish Pancakes that Helena and Maria made and renewed Ron's interest in making them for me! YUM
Thanks for dropping in. Betty
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