Luckily (and somewhat disappointingly) such discussions failed to be articulated when all of Hannah's family got together in Stevenage for the baptism of our newest member, Samuel. The sun shone, the paddling pool came out, and the Champagne flowed as all seventeen of us (or twenty-three, or thirty - I've lost count) enjoyed each others' company and John and Laura's wonderful hospitality. And, unlike previous family gatherings, the only nudity was from the 3-and-unders...
Cousins together - Pete and Isobel.
Lubrication cuts down on friction.
Yes, it was even possible to spend time outside in England during the summer (that umbrella was for the sun!)
John gave the kids water pistols. I grabbed the high-pressure hose.
Rachel pops the corks.
And then food arrives, so things get serious.
Sharing out jelly beans post-lunch.
Yay! I got everyone in one photo, mostly smiling, and all clothed.
It was all too much for some.
The next day, at the small, sleepy village church...
Mum and aunties make sure poor Samuel is looking good.
Isobel with her other-side grandparents.
Patriarch John completes the baptism.
New Godson's first selfie.
Another day, another massive buffet.
Hannah keeps the nephews and nieces in line.
Laura serves.
Cheers!
Cutting the cake(s).
And, after all that: family nap time.
