During the latter half of June, Doug, I, Geneal and Oliver (our last two kids at home) were able to take some time off and travel to Jacksonville, Florida, to visit Geneal's former Missionary stomping ground. We had the privilege of meeting some really outstanding people that Sister Cahoon was able to teach or work with during her LDS Mission. It seemed to bring back some very warm memories for the former Sister Cahoon and we loved hearing her stories. We were spoiled by one family in particular, The Pete & Ashley Flores Family, who opened their home to us with the purest form of Southern hospitality and absolute Christianity...We readily came to love their sweet family and feel so blessed to count them among our most treasured friends...Thank You Flores Family! We were also able to meet President & Sister Newman and were treated to the most delicious luncheon in the Mission Home! Many thanks to the Newman's!
Following our 3 days in Jacksonville, we traveled to Orange Beach, Alabama, for The Cochran Family Reunion. What a blast it was to be with Doug's extended family and renew those special family relationships! We enjoyed the nicest of amenities and could not have asked for a more beautiful setting! The family enjoyed time at the pool, on the beach and swimming in the ocean, delicious meals together, a talent show, kareoke, sand crab hunting by moonlight, a dance, and even a Baptism of one of the cousins in the ocean. What a memorable time we had and we so appreciate all who worked so hard to make this event such a joyful experience!
After Orange Beach, we traveled on to Baton Rouge and enjoyed a spiritual feast with family and also celebrated Doug's 49th Birthday! As has been the case for much of Doug's life, his Birthday was celebrated on the road, but it didn't take away from the love and well wishes that so many had for Doug! Happy Birthday, Darlin!
Our final family reunion took place in Natchidoches, Louisiana, at the home of Dwight & Jillyn Epperson. This was the Glen & Geneal Cahoon Family Reunion and our hosts made our stay so delightful! Thank You Bunches, Dwight & Jillyn!! Our activities included a trolley ride and personal tour of Natchidoches, The Alligator Farm, Boating down the river, incredible food and lots of fun just being together as a family! Mike, Judy & Miss Michael...Y'all were very missed!
The final leg of our trip was spent in Dallas, Texas. We visited our former Plano 6th Ward, where we were reunited with some of our dearest friends! We drove through our old neighborhood and felt a flood of special memories! It was great to visit in the Mark & Angie Morell home and to spend some quality time with and in the home of Steve & Barbara Crofts and their family! Thank You, Steve, Barbie and Brandon for your hospitality...It always feels like Christmas in your home! We love y'all so very much! Flying out of DFW was bitter-sweet and we will always remember June of 2008 with great fondness!
