Abe and Lindsey: Arave Family Reunion: July 4th

(Nearly all of these pictures were taken from Camille. I am so glad she documented the day so well!)

We all gathered together and my Grandparents for a family picture. We are missing quite a few, but a great picture! I think it amazing to see all that came from two people! Which was kind of the whole point of this family reunion.

Alving and Ida with their daughter: Joan, Ilene, Valine, and Christine. (Marie couldn't make it)

Next up, my Aunt Christine and cousin Michelle put together these amazing booklets. They outlined our day and gave us little tidbits of information. It also has a family tree for both Grandparents. I can't believe some of the old pictures they have of family members. Each of the kids also grabbed a bundle of colored pencils to color and fill in their booklets as they desired. We all were allowed to pick out a flower to put on a grave site of our choosing.

We all labeled our cars (thanks Camille) and took off in a long line of cars.

After the visit to the Moreland cemetery we made several stops along the road. One of them was the house my Grandma lived it. Behind this house is a tiny cinder block building. It has one window and a door. This is where my Grandparents lived for a year after they were married. .

courtesy of Lauren

One mile down the road is the house my Grandpa built. He built a basement house and it has since been added onto

courtesy of Lauren

Next up, lunch! This is also when Camille and Gregg caught up with us. They took the scenic route and decided to head north instead of south. Finally they figured it out and made it in time for lunch. We went to a picnic/camp area where the Christiansen family would hold their family reunions. The kids played in trees that we played in as kids. The old wood play set is gone, but the rest looks the same.

I burnt my head the day before (filling water balloons) so I was trying to keep the sun off of my part. It made for some stellar bangs that everyone was jealous of! ...

Next up was the Basalt cemetery. My Mom's ancestors are there, as well as my Dad's Mom, Grandma Trent, and his sister. We paid our respects and had Alaura in a picture with her namesake. My Grandma Trent was an amazing lady. Always selfless and willing to give to anyone. I miss her, but I mostly miss her for the sake of my Grandpa. It hurts to see how he misses her and is not complete without her.

Next up we went to the home that Nelson Arave built in 1900. It was amazing to see! Sadly, there is a recent past to the home. The owners wish to tear it down, but that can't because it is a historic landmark. Too bad I can't buy it and restore it to it's original glory! How amazing would that be!!!
Nelson Arave came across with the Mormon Pioneers with his foster family. He became a builder of bridges and buildings. His workmanship was beautiful to see!

(picture courtesy of Lauren) Lindsey, Tiffany, Nate

Next up, the Taylor cemetery. We spent the most time here finishing books, asking questions, and discussing my Grandpa's upbringing. Grandpa was influenced by a family that worked for them. He saw how the marriage and the family were centered around God. He wanted that for himself. When he began looking for a wife he looked at the parents and found his wife, who is now my Grandma. I am so grateful for the choices that he made and the influence he has brought to me in my life. I think my Grandparents are the best! I love my Grandma's wit and humor and admire my Grandpa's intelligence and desire to explore and learn. I have many memories of them both, since I was able to visit them often as a child.

At 4:00 we decided we were all hot, tired, and getting hungry. We went out separate ways to prepare and cool off. Soon enough it was 5:30 and we were back at my Grandparents ready for a party!