Bringing 2007 to a Close

After our amazing trip to Florida and the Virgin Islands, we made plans to spend the last part of December with Dave's extended family in Chicago and Wisconsin. The Lower/Lauer family reunion was planned the weekend before Christmas in Lake Geneva, WI. Most of the family could attend, though we did miss the Dan Lauer family (in Idaho) and Jonathan Lauer family (visiting Benno in Japan). Uncle John and Aunt Ruth Willis were so kind to let us stay with them before our drive to WI and through Christmas after the reunion. The boys LOVED their dog Bailey and we all enjoyed a warm, cozy Christmas with John, Ruth, Matt, Clara, Trevor, Sam and Christina.

After spending the night in Chicago, we followed John and Ruth up to Covenant Harbor on Lake Geneva, WI. It was beautiful on the lake, but a stark contrast to the ocean breezes and sunshine from our last trip. I do believe the temperature was something like 13 below zero with the wind chill. WAAAYYY too cold for me. Dave, Tim, Angela and our four kids enjoyed sledding and playing in the snow. I (Alissa) did not leave the comfort of the resort except to go to Gino's Pizza (the best TRUE Chicago style pizza in the world). Our time with the extended Lauer family was so nice. Grandma and Grandpa Lower seemed to bask in having so many of their descendents gathered around them. I know it wasn't easy for them to make the trip and adjust to all the different activities, but they were wonderful. Grandma even won the Bunco tournament with the most Buncos...I don't think she ever left the head table. Way to go Grandma! The youngest generation had fun reacquainting themselves and playing together. The grown ups spent lots of time talking and catching up since the last reunion. Specifically we spent one morning sharing all that has happened in our lives since the reunion in 2003 in Tennessee. It was a great time to reconnect and share in the joy and pain we all have faced over these last years. Another highlight included a talent/variety show. With skits, comedy, dancing and music it was a showcase not to be missed. We all had some great laughs. Dave and I were again reminded of how blessed we are to have a Godly heritage in our families. Many generations are blessed because of those before us who chose to follow the one true God.