In our society, it is not unusual for family members to be
far-flung across the country or even across the globe. My parents and siblings
reside in Tennessee, Missouri, Colorado and California. This makes it difficult
and expensive for all of us to get together. We all gathered for a reunion for
my birthday this summer, and the sacrifice of money and time indicated just how
important it is to reunite with family.
Since the reunion was at my house, I got to plan the event.
And I love to plan events! We started off the first day by heading to the local
pottery painting shop where everyone made themselves a reunion keepsake to take
home. Then it was off to a concert to see my daughters perform in San Luis
Obispo. Wine tasting in Paso Robles, beach walking in Cambria and a creek side
picnic were experienced and enjoyed during the week. But my favorite part was the
day of our pool party and BBQ. I had written down everyone’s names on a chart and
bought prizes so that we could have Ladder Ball and Ping Pong tournaments. Dads
competed against sons, aunts teamed with nieces, and those who were waiting
their turn clapped and cheered. As I watched the smiles, I knew – making
memories is priceless.
