My Little Utopia

One of my very favorite places on Earth is my Grandma Paxton's place on Gaston Lake in North Carolina.

We finally got back out there again and this time brought Violet with us! I was glad to get her off to a good start by bringing her so early. I have been going to "The Lake" my whole life--I think my children should do the same! In fact, the Lake is the one place that has been constant-my parents, my aunts and uncles and other Grandma have all moved multiple times through my life-but the Lake has always been around. It has some of my fondest memories. If they were to make a movie during which I run away Sam would say "I know where to go..." and would find me sitting at the end of the pier at Gaston Lake. My personal little Utopia.

Dad trying to make up for closing his eyes in every picture (note the pier from my movie in the background)

Been swinging on the swing my whole life

Grandma Paxton bonding with Violet, aka "meowing" at her

Violet charming everyone

The charming continues

Ministering to the sick and the widows

4 generations, in chronological order (dad struggling with closed eyes again).

Snuggling with cousin Lexie on Grandpa's old recliner

My favorite place with my favorite people!

I was so glad to get to see Aunt June, Grandma Paxton, Ben and Susan and their daughter Lexie. But I am sad we didn't get to show Violet the pleasures and beauty of the farm where my Grandma Cromwell lives! Hopefully next time... we love our Grandmamas!