Happy Father's Day!!

We hosted Mother's Day at our house...but Father's Day is always an event hosted by Ryan's mom and stepdad. And it is quite a magnificent event!!

Before I launch into that...check out THIS beauty from 1986 that my sister posted on her Facebook page Sunday!

Random fun fact: that picture was taken at my grandparents' house...which is now our house. We're sitting in the fireplace. :)

And now back to present day...

We had the PERFECT weather day on Sunday for the Father's Day extravaganza. Allen and Nita set up tables in the garage and grill out and everyone pitches in with the meal. The crowd is made up of both of their extended families - and they were kind enough to include my parents this year as well. After growing up in such a small family, it still boggles my mind to go to a HUGE gathering like theirs!

Ryan helped Allen with the grilling. :)

Ryan's Grandpa Cox and my dad are very, very good friends...and have been since I was a kid. So it warmed my heart to see them going through the food line together. So cool how God blends friendships into family.

We sat with my parents...so I snapped this one of Ryan and Mom. Such a good one of both of them.

And he took one of Dad and me. :)

We gave Dad a gift - and this card. I chose it because if my Dad were a dog, he would look just like this.

It's true! The glasses...the plaid...the slippers...the recliner...that would be Dad! He loved it.

We ate lunch - OH my word - so much FOOD!!!! Then we went out for a little photo shoot.

Mom and Dad!! :) 

 The four of us. :)

 The scariest part of my day - using my mother-in-law's fancy pants camera. :)

I learned that there is actually a beehive at their house! I learn something new about them every day. Seriously.

So Ryan and I hopped in the Gator {never been in one of those either} and drove deep into the woods to see the beehive. Ryan's Uncle Dave is apparently a hobby beekeeper!

Um. Ryan's driving was a little faster than I like for an open-sided means of transportation.

But we made it in one piece. Check this out!

I kept a safe distance and just used my zoom lens. :)

 {Yes, that is Allen holding that piece WITHOUT wearing the suit!!}

And as for Ryan...well...his need for a Sunday afternoon nap hit him while we were watching the bees. At least I'm claiming that over being a boring date!!!

After we got our fill of the bees, we headed back to the house and hung around for a while, helping to clean up and talking some more to all the cousins, aunts and uncles.

So that was our Father's Day! :) Long and wonderful.