Arizona Chapter Two - Family Reunion

Arriving at Aunt Rita's home in Tempe, we were met with a houseful of Michael's family!  There were hugs to go all around and new faces to meet - all for me and some for Michael.  Rita's place was filled with piano playing and gospel singing, which made us feel so welcomed!  The kitchen counter was filled with enchiladas, tacos, salsa, and all other sorts of Mexican goodness to eat. 

Friday evening found us making a pit stop at the Doubletree Hotel, the heart of the Ealy/Faucett reunion, where I met for the first time Michael's mother, sister, and nieces.  We then bid adieu to all until the official reunion on Saturday night.

Once again we were back to the Doubletree Saturday night, where all the relatives were together.  Everyone was dressed up and looking sharp while they visited from table to table meeting and greeting.  Based upon the appearance of the buffet (meat tips resembling dog food and apple pie resembling a creamy covered train wreck) we had made the wise decision to not eat dinner until later.

As with any family, it was a cast of characters - the rollicking sisters, the hugging aunts, the amusing uncles, and even a few celebrities:

     *Bernard, who spent his career playing piano and touring with his bands - Patti LaBelle and James Ingram;

     *Bridget, a renown opera singer who has played Carnegie Hall;

     *Brian, former NFL football player with the Arizona Cardinals;

     *And cousin Michael Ealy, Hollywood actor who wasn't able to make the reunion.

It was a very memorable event and one I was happy to make with my Michael.  Family - in all shapes and sizes - it's a good thing!