Five of us gathered around the monitor to attend a streaming church service on Father’s Day After that, grandson Nathaniel got the fire going. Soon son John $ and Rose joined us, and our circle was complete. The day was perfect for eating on the porch. Rose took a picture of all of us at the table. We talked nonstop, teasing and retelling funny family stories. The day was full of merriment and mirth.

For the foodies: Nathaniel grilled marinated chicken breasts, asparagus, Bavarian brats, and Pepperjack hot dogs. He also prepared a salad of fresh beets, salad greens, Feta cheese, dried cranberries, and roasted pecans. Rose brought macaroni and cheese, which was a favorite with everyone. For dessert we had a store-made angel food cake topped with fresh strawberries and whipped topping. We also had cheesecake from Walmart, the kind with 12 different slices put together to make a whole. It didn’t stay whole for long.

We gathered under the oak tree for group photos. I liked this informal one where we were talking to Sadie. Sadie obeys the command to “sit”, but she hasn’t learned “pose” yet.

Rose took the best shot of our three children, who haven’t been together for 15 to 16 years, according to Lise’s reckoning. She saw $ in North Carolina and Kate in New York, but $ and Kate were not in the same state at the same time. They enjoyed being together again.

I hope all of you who celebrated Father’s Day had a fantastic time together.