Every few years grandma Ellis needs her garage and sheds and fence painted. And this year was one of those years. She said the last time it was done was eight years ago, the year grandpa died, but it seems like we have done it since then. I am probably wrong though. I always like going over to do it though. It gives me a chance to spend some time with her and my dad. And Uncle Dan is always there and he can be a good time. I usually go alone, but this year we all went. We got there about 10:00 and painted for a few hours. Then we had some grilled hot dogs and pasta salads and beans and whatnot and then painted some more. I think we didn't leave until about 8:00 that night. It took a long time. But it was nice to be there. Cousin Monica and her husband and kids where there, and Brooke and Bob came for a few hours too. Brandon also showed up for a little while but he didn't stay too long. The kids really had a good time painting. We usually don't let them help paint at our house but because this was outside and paint drippings from previous years were already all over the place, I didn't think it would hurt to let them go at it. Luke liked it the most. Here is a picture of Luke, my dad, and I painting grandma's back patio.
Here is a picture of several of the others. Uncle Dan and Zoe are in the background, with Grandma holding Ethnie, and Leisel climbing a ladder.
Lila spent most of her time in the kitchen next to the goodies. As always, grandma had plenty of yummy things to snack on the whole day. That is one thing you can always count on at her house. There will always be plenty of peanut m&ms, coke, cookies, chips and salsa, and plenty of other goodies spread out. I don't know how she keeps her girlish figure. I love being there. It feels safe and comfortable.
