Rexburg Temple

On the second day of our reunion, the morning began with a visit to the Rexburg Temple. It is a beautiful edifice, both inside and outside. Most of us hadn't been to this Temple. It was a very special experience for Gramma and Papa. Most of their children and spouses were in attendance, along with Kevin, their oldest grandchild. In that regard it was a historical event for the John and Marilyn Connelly Clan.

Here is Kevin and Jon, his Dad with Gramma.

You might ask where were the 23 grandchildren while the adults went to the temple? Well, it was actually 22 because Kevin was with us. They were all back at Amanda's. The oldest cared for the youngest, and by all accounts things went well.

What a sweet beginning to our gathering this was.

Becca's 35th

The first evening of the reunion (6/23/11) coincided with Becca's Birthday. So there were 35 family members there to celebrate her 35th BDay

We were set up in the Reynolds' Cultural Hall (garage) as Becca's listened with tears in her eyes as the family sang Happy Birthday. She blew out her candles and we shared the two cakes and ice cream.

Macy came over to give Auntie Becca a little love

Ukes came out and strumming and singing filled the hall. Here is Ganon with his genuine Kamaka, and Michael with his tenor uke.

Megan and Kelly join in. Songs from Hawaii were popular. Jon pointed out that our clan was Irish Hawaiian.

Jon and Michael concentrate on a game of chess

Kelly and Gramma visit.

As the Idaho sun set, which is about 10PM this time of year, Eric asked Becca if he could have a turn on her bike. (Anything for Mushu.) He and Emma rode down the street and back. It was a good, fun birthday and conclusion of Day 1 of the reunion

A Convergence of Connellys

(with support from Reynolds, Freemans and Hammaris), we came to Rigby, Idaho at Amanda and Eric's one acre country estate on June 23 for the 2011 Reunion of the John and Marilyn Connelly Clan. Here is Heidi beginning to unload their van. In fg Gramma hugs Megan

Kimberly with many others carry their stuff to the campground (in Amanda's back yard)

Amanda broke out their John Deere with trailer to help pack the gear

Gramma visits Michael and Kevin

This is one of the big hits of the reunion. Macy (16 months) welcomed TJ (14 months) to her home and offered to share her car. They played nicely all weekend.

Jenny and Aaron putting up one the tents

Cathy involved in tent construction

Gramma became a rock star with the little grandchildren when she got her scooter out. Here is Carson getting his turn.

Jon, Ganon, Michael and Aaron on the front lawn

TJ and his proud dad

Speaking of rock star status, Amanda would load the trailer on the return trip with little ones, cheering and waving. The start of the reunion was full of happy hugs and smiles

Getting ready

In preparation for Becca's 35th birthday next week (and the family reunion), we went to get a haircut and a "mani". In Rexburg there is a large cosmetology school that welcomes the public. We went there and got a nice young lady who cut Becca's hair and then did her nails. Becca picked this nice blue color. It should go well with the blue reunion shirts.

Becca is quite proud of the little white flowers painted on the middle nails. She feels very girlie

Winter? Games

We arrived in Rigby last week. Carson had started his TBall season and he invited us to come to see his games. We have now been to three games; each would put into question the baseball phrase "The Boys of Summer". At the first game the temperature was so cold our lips were turning blue. The second game, it was warmer but there were dark ominous clouds rolling in from the south. The little game started and the clouds were soon joined by serious thunder. The game wasn't called until the lightning, thunder and heavy rain drops were upon us. Since the cars were parked in the next zip code, we were soaked by the time we got to them. OK, on to game 3. Temp was up, no clouds were in the sky, but the winds were gusting up to 50 mph. Spectators' camp chairs and blankets were blown all over. But these hearty folks pressed on and we played.

Let me rush on to say that I had great fun. I love baseball and really love TBall. I'm glad we didn't miss young Carson having such a great time. The young players are full of enthusiasm and play with vigor. The adults are kind and patient. The rules are adjusted so that fun rules. And I really admire the Rigby folks, both adults and kids, who don't let a little weather stop their plans and fun. Here's hoping that game 4 next week will actually happen in the summer.

PS This morning I drove Emma to her soccer practice. At the 10 o'clock start time, our car thermometer read 42 degrees. (sigh)

Michael is Pau High School

On Friday, June 3rd, Hunter High School in West Valley, Utah graduated their 2011 class. Among the 600 plus grads was our Michael Connelly. (We're pretty sure) that he is in the front row, the first blue gown from the right.

(and we're pretty sure) that this is him at the right side stepping forward to pick up his sheepskin.

After the ceremony, Michael poses with his happy family. From left--Benjamin, Cathy, Aaron, Michael, Jenny, Nate (in the mortar board hat), Kimie, Jon and Kevin.

Michael, draped with leis, poses with Mom and Dad

Ganon, at work, is well represented by his family. From left--Sarah, TJ (in the sling), Heidi, Rebecca, Michael with David on his back

Michael with Gramma Connelly, wearing her summer bonnet.

We are very proud of this fine grandson. Good luck at Utah State! Go Aggies!