Yesterday was another Lopez family gathering. This time it was in honor of Dave and Steve's grandfather Pete's 80th birthday party. The Lopez family loves to throw a party, seriously they will throw one any chance. The Lopez gatherings are always family packed everyone shows up for true family community. There is always a lot of food, music and awkwardness. No matter what house the gathering is at everyone brings their music equipment for a family Jam. Uncle Mike brings his 10+ harmonica's and sound stuff, Cousin Chris brings bass, Cousin Daniel and Step-mom Sue bring Keys, Father Bob brings sound stuff and guitar, Grandma and Grandpa Lopez bring bongos (Grandma plays) and Guitar (Grandpa plays), Aunt Angela brings flute, Cousin Jason brings drums, and other family members bring things too. The Older crowd usually sings traditional Mexican songs, the kids usually plays various 60's-present day songs, and the grand children usually jam along.
His family is huge and all very warm, loving and accepting of guests. Everyone went around and said something they loved about Grandpa before eating. It was very heartwarming to see generations of family honoring this great man.
Their Cousin Mary is home from the Air Force for a few weeks before deploying to South Korea for a year. To honor Grandpa Pete she dressed in her uniform to give him a military salute for his birthday (which was really nice). Then the family interviewed her for about 10 minutes and finally made her sing the National Anthem (they all joined in in singing).
It was a great party.
