The 3rd Annual Green Family Reunion gathered at C&C Farms on August 1st for a few hours before driving 2 hours Northeast to Gatlinbug. Of course Skyler had to visit her farm friends that morning and then show off her swimming skills before heading to our cabin.
She's become quite the pro at collecting eggs!
And the animals still adore her......
A quick warddrobe change before Skyler grabbed her Uncle Bogie for some swimming fun! Our little fish was eager to show her family all her new swimming strokes.
Soaking up the sun before the trip......
Skyler found her buddy, George, and had a sweet chat with him.
Then gave Gammey some gymnastic lessons....
We wrapped up the Farm Fun and stopped at our normal eating joint, the "Old Fort Restaurant" for lunch.
After a delicious meal, we hit the road to begin our 118 mile "caravan" journey. No music needed in our car. Skyler entertained us for the entire 2 hours. Gammey had the closest seat to all the action!
Our first sign to our destination...
Let the Reunion begin!
Our cabin rested on the border of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park. Our five bedroom log cabin residence was hemmed in all sides of high ridges. Each cabin was designated with a outdoor plaque and ours was called the Cabin Dream. Quite appropriate!
Outside shot of our cabin....
Family photo after settling in....
Skyler introducing our traveling companion, Matilda, to her new home for the week. This plastic flamingo usually finds her way home with a "surprised" family member through their suitcase. This time, WE brought her on the trip!
She quickly explored all levels and certainly enjoyed the stairs the best!
It was a week full of love! Skyler gave tons of kisses and hugs to her family. Here's a sample with Auntie Nicola.
We even had "Movie Night" after an evening swim.
Each evening, Daddy grilled fabulous meals for our hungry tummies and happy hearts. The grill became the gathering spot at dusk.
Daddy made sure everyone's pallets were satisfied. From shrimp & fish to chicken & filet mignons. Nobody went to bed hungry!
Sky with her Gammey & Auntie Nic.
Daddy, aka Tom, even treated us to his home made chocolate cheesecake.
Another fun gathering could be found down stairs. The pool table was a hit!
We drove a few miles to do some shopping in Pigeon Forge. The Outlet mall that we chose had over 90 stores!
Our sweet model at the Gymboree store...
Hitching a free ride around the stores with Uncle Bogie...
"The Green Girls" taking a break at Ralph Lauren.
After a long shopping day, we headed back to our mountain oasis to enjoy family time and another evening around the grill and night card games.
The Grill Master below....
Sky certainly enjoyed the Jacuzzi tub. It sure looked like a toddler pool. Bubble baths were a blast! She'll probably kill me for the booty shot when she's much older, but oh well, it's just too cute not to share!
On our last night, we decided to take Skyler to Pigeon Forge's, "Track Family Recreation Center". It was loaded with kiddie rides and the Princess loved every minute of it!
The Arrival.....
We started at the Red Baron Plane Ride. Sky's a huge fan of planes thanks to her Uncle Dog! Of course she had to be the pilot and these next pictures show her excitement.
Next up, the blue Spin Tops!
This ride was a huge smile maker......
Daughter & Mummy time on the Rio Grande Train.
My favorite came next, the Wild Woody Go Karts. Talk about a thrill! The double seated karts proved to be a family blast on the three level, spiraling wooden track. Daddy and Skyler went first as I watched and licked my lips.
"Weeeeeeeeeeeeee"
Finally my turn with our little racer. I was definitely in my element. When I used to race Corvettes, my car club spent many evenings practicing our race techniques in speedy go karts. (a much cheaper way to get in seat time and save those tires for race day!) Anyway, hear I am telling Skyler to hold on tight, because we were going to beat all the boys!
We were so fast, the picture came on blurry...hehe!
From fast to slow, Sky wanted to ride one of the classic park rides, the Carousel.
She rode the Ferris Wheel all by herself and was never scared of the height.
Skyler is way up there in the yellow cart waving!
The fun finally ended for our pint sized Sweetie after swing time.We stayed busy and enjoyed 4 straight hours at this child friendly park!
The 5 day Reunion was simply lovely. I always enjoy surrounding myself with family. I missed my Dad so much and at times it was difficult, but I knew my father would want this tradition, The Green Family Reunion, to carry on. I also know in my heart HE was in the mountains with us.....smiling down while wrapping his loving arms around each of us.
The caravan arrived back to C&C Farms on Sunday, the 5th, shortly after 2PM. We soaked in more love before traveling back to Lakeland that evening.
Sky with Uncle Charles' moped helmet.
One word....ADORABLE!
At 4PM, Daddy, Skyler, Laney and I hopped in the truck and took all the wonderful made reunion memories back home. The Fourth Annual is already in the planning and we are leaning towards renting a big home on a lake (with a pool) in Maggie Valley, North Carolina. Family is Fabulous! We love you Gammey, Uncle Charles, Auntie Cheryl, Uncle Bogie & Auntie Nicola. Thanks for a wonderful Reunion!
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