On a beautiful August 31, many of the Johnson clan traveled near and far to The Lodge in Antioch for a joyous

Family Reunion!

Starting at 1pm, the family assembled outside the General Charley Pub for a day full of hugs, talk, laughter, food, and drink.   

Lots of kids and some new relations meeting for the 1st time all made the day even better.  

Sadly, Peggy and Bob were not able to attend as Bob has battled a few health issues of late.  They were dearly missed.   Family Patriarch, Uncle Roy Amos Johnson said a beautiful prayer for Bob.  Thank you Uncle Roy.

• click here for the invitation
• click here for all the pictures
• click here for Video of Addie's Birthday Song

I won't chronicle all the attendees - though i will note a few of the new comers.   

Shari Kvistad and her husband Bill attended and were meeting so many new family members for the first time.  She was so happy to meet family she never knew.   

Jason Johnson's beautiful wife Kira and their infant son Jaden had many in the crowd fighting to hold him.  Such a happy boy - he went to everyone's arms without a peep of protest.  An arranged marriage between Jaden and little Addison was briefly discussed.   Stay tuned.

Sophie Upchurch brought a young buck with her named Lucas.  I watched him with suspicion the whole day - but he's really a nice lad.

The only Fly In The Ointment on the whole day was an invasion of bees, attracted to the food and the Johnson Women.  3 Stings were reported, including Princess Kathy and little Calvin.  But they managed their hurts bravely.

Before dinner we took a Family Picture of all the attendees which can be viewed at the bottom of this page.   Quite a crowd as you can see.

Princess Kathy laid on an EPIC feast, ably assisted by Bossy Sister, Laurie.  Snacks, Burgers, Grilled Chicken, Hot Dogs, Salads & Sweets, all under continual attack by the Bee infestation made for a tasty, memorable Dinner!   Beloved cousin Debbie Bellew enjoyed her dinner in the relative peace of her car.

At 5:30pm we remembered the anniversary of Dad's passing who had died on this date/time in 2004.   We prayed The Lord's Prayer which is what my sisters & I did as Dad died.  Very emotional.   

We then all gathered to sing Happy Birthday to our Granddaughter Addison, who just celebrated her 1st birthday.    Also celebrated Brett's 35th on 2-Sep.   

Tears of Joy Won Over Tears of Sadness.  

All too quickly the day was over.  But old family relationships were renewed, new family relationship were made, all surrounded by the love of family that binds us all.   And you know what the best thing is?   Take a look at the 1st row of the family picture below and look at all the young kids...

The Future looks pretty Good, doesn't it?

Praise God for all his many blessings!

praise God for this family! 

 

 Visit www.rickyjohn.com for more about our family