Labor Day Tradition

After at least four years off, Maren helped

 revive a fun tradition at the lake: 

Labor Day camp-out!

Sisters and Mom finding a warm, sunny spot on the beach

Playing with cousin's kids.
Dad gave sailboat rides to relatives for two days.

Maren and Jason set out for their first ride with Dad...

... and the wind dropped before their return.

The new, collapsible paddle came in handy!

The most memorable part of our tradition is ending
 Sunday evening singing around the campfire and 
praying together before roasting 
marshmallows for s'mores.

Only a few of us camped out overnight
while others made the drive for both days.

Despite many layers, including one of Grandma's 
log-cabin quilts, I awoke chilly every hour 
all night to add more layers.

Monday was a relaxed morning of visiting and handwork,
with more family joining us for brunch.
My uncle was inspired to get his sailboat out 
for the first time of the year.

We missed having Grandpa and Grandma with us as in past years, but what a blessing to still have all these relatives that love to be together!