We had a wonderful gathering today of a large part of our family -- Jamie, Luke, Rachael, and all the kids except Avis. (Avis was with her dad, and Amy had to work today.) We started with a bountiful lunch prepared by Cia, and served at our new (well, sort of new) dining room table. It was such fun for me to see all of them gathered round, laughing and talking and enjoying each other's company. 

After lunch, we went to the Mystic Aquarium (our treat) and toured the outdoor and indoor exhibits. It was good to see the kids get so excited about the fish we saw -- seeing the kids pointing and shouting to each other to come and see this or that. It made me realize that paying for the grandparents membership was a very good idea. If we only take the kids there a few times each year, it will be well worth it. 

Later, after the kids had headed home (a long drive for both cars), we sat by the fire, as usual, and reminisced about the happy day.