Don's Mom's 70th B-Day Party

After Christmas in Chicago we flew to Washington state to be with Don's family for New Year's. Thanks to a new portable DVD player Lucy did wonderfully on the plane ride. One of the main reasons we went out to Washington was to participate in Don's mom's 70th birthday celebration. It was such a wonderful and meaningful event. Don's sister and brother-in-law Jody and Trevor hosted a lovely open house for mom's birthday. She had lots of guests come to join in the celebration and to show her how much she is loved and cherished.
Grandma opening up her birthday gifts with Lucy and Asher nearby trying to help.
The fam (minus Susie and I). Mom and Dad are on the left, then Don's brother, Doug, Don's sisters Leslie and Jody, and Don's brothers in law Trevor and Steve.
A picture of all the Vander Griend cousins: Johann, Lucas, Simone, Jude, David, Michael, Asher, Joshua, and Lucy.
Aunt Eleanor, mom, and Aunt Donna at mom's party

Aren't these brothers a good looking bunch? Don's dad with Don's uncles Orv and Lamar.

We were able to see friends that lived in the area as well. Here is Don with his good college buddy, Trent. It was great to catch up with Trent and his wife, Jenny. They have 3 adorable kids and have settled in Lynden (the town that Don's parents live in).

Lucy had a lot of fun playing with all her cousins, but she particularly enjoyed being with Lucas. He is so sweet with her and was really tender and loving.