Gibson Family Reunion

We had a fabulous time getting together with the Gibson side of the family. We met in Show Low, AZ so we could be right next to my Grandad's cabin. We had a weekend packed with cousins, family history and cabin fun.


We went out to the site of my great-great-grandparents' homestead near Snowflake Arizona. They were wagon freighters over the turn of the century and their posterity have a yearly reunion near that site. There are still many "artifacts" to see like rusty cans, porcelain shards, the old, rusty car and Great-Great-Grandma's lilac bushes.


While in Snowflake, we went to some cousin's/aunt's house where we sat and caught up with some family we haven't seen in a long time. The kids found an awesome climbing tree that apparently gets good use whenever grandchildren are visiting. That tree can hold a lot of kids!

We visited my grandmother's memorial. She passed away about a year and a half ago and we all miss her very much. The kids were excited to "visit" Great-Grandma and help make her flowers beautiful. Contrary to established decorum, I think my grandma was happy to see all of those kids pointing, patting, standing and even running near her.

I LOVE this picture. Emma is standing next to one of her namesakes, Louise Cross, who was a pioneer and an amazing woman. She was very well known for being happy, despite many difficult hardships she had to endure. I love how joyful Emma looks right here. A perfect tribute to a wonderful grandmother.

One of the coolest things about the cemetery is that it is in direct sight of the Snowflake temple. A perfect backdrop to help keep people focused on what really matters.
My Grandfather told me that when President Hinckley was viewing sites for this temple, he didn't approve any of them. Instead, he looked at that hill and asked who owned it. The bank did. President Hinckley then said that is where the temple should be built and to make it happen. Awesome. :)


We were visiting over Pioneer Day (July 24th) and got to see the parade that goes through Snowflake. Honestly, it was the BEST parade we've been to, ever. It had a small town, homey feel, the floats were good and inspirational, the people were kind, they threw candy and handed out popsicles. It was AWESOME. My kids are still talking about it a month later. Well, at least they are talking about the candy. :)

We also had a talent show, made boats and floated them in the creek, played games and even got some ping pong in. We loved it all, but especially being with family.