alisa toelupe family bbq

I love my EXTENDED family! Last Saturday we all got together for a BBQ to celebrate baptisms, weddings and graduations that happened this month. . . really, I think it was all just an excuse to get together and eat some good food. Honestly, when it comes to food - my family doesn't mess around. It was such an enjoyable day for me - to chill with my family, eat some bomb Polynesian cooking and just relax. Here's some of my favorite pics from the day. . .

Zion and Kina mobbing Doug

Wayne ate and then knocked out.

When Setema gets married I'm putting this pic in his slideshow

Reenie and Vika - love my cousins!

After everyone had their fill we all just sat around and talked. After some time, somebody pointed out a little spec in the grass far away from where everyone was seated. Upon closer inspection, I discovered it was Malia! She had walked out, laid down and fallen asleep all by herself ALL by herself. I guess she really values her peace and quiet.

Being with the family always brings back memories of get-togethers from way back when. I remember Sunday koga'i at Auntie Peka's house, BBQ's at Kakela Beach, and FHE at Auntie Ireens house. Since I was a little girl we've always gotten together for birthdays, reunions, weddings and funerals. I love being around family! I value the relationships I have with my family now and I appreciate the effort and sacrifice that has been made over the years to just get TOGETHER. I'm so grateful my girls are having the same experience I had to learn from aunties and uncles and play with cousins. It's a wonderful thing. Families are forever!!!