Tomorrow the family heads two hours away to a family reunion. We used to gather together often before my parents died, but now it is rare. I'm so excited to be with all of these folks again, even the ones that drive me a little crazy. We are a family. We are linked by the good and the bad.
I've been gone from my home for about thirty years but when I find myself there amongst my siblings my girls say that my accent suddenly reappears. I guess they are right. It is so easy to settle into old habits there.
My sister bought my parents home and she has kept it much the same as it was all those years ago. I still know which cabinet the plates are in! But, more than that, I know that one of my aunts will bring her cole slaw and it is the best I've ever had. I know that all the kids will find themselves in the creek even though there is a water slide there. I know that I can look into many relatives faces and see the familiar characteristics and mannerisms of "our tribe" and I understand it on a very deep level.
There is comfort in all of these things. The Son is planning to go with us. So are the Sisters. I am happy about this. Being the youngest of six and losing my parents at a fairly young age makes me feel as if a valuable asset was lost to my children. I am so happy for them to have this experience.
If all goes as planned the Dad and I, the Son, Big and Little Sister and two pooches will head to a lovely small town in western Kentucky and eat way too much food, watch the dogs and kids play, tell lots of stories and listen to the whispers of generations past.
I am thankful for this opportunity. I am thankful for what I've learned from my blogging family as well. I pray for our loved ones and for Henry.
I've been gone from my home for about thirty years but when I find myself there amongst my siblings my girls say that my accent suddenly reappears. I guess they are right. It is so easy to settle into old habits there.
My sister bought my parents home and she has kept it much the same as it was all those years ago. I still know which cabinet the plates are in! But, more than that, I know that one of my aunts will bring her cole slaw and it is the best I've ever had. I know that all the kids will find themselves in the creek even though there is a water slide there. I know that I can look into many relatives faces and see the familiar characteristics and mannerisms of "our tribe" and I understand it on a very deep level.
There is comfort in all of these things. The Son is planning to go with us. So are the Sisters. I am happy about this. Being the youngest of six and losing my parents at a fairly young age makes me feel as if a valuable asset was lost to my children. I am so happy for them to have this experience.
If all goes as planned the Dad and I, the Son, Big and Little Sister and two pooches will head to a lovely small town in western Kentucky and eat way too much food, watch the dogs and kids play, tell lots of stories and listen to the whispers of generations past.
I am thankful for this opportunity. I am thankful for what I've learned from my blogging family as well. I pray for our loved ones and for Henry.
2 comments:
I am so envious. That sounds like a wonderful trip. Have a good time, savor every minute.
I hope that your have a great trip, safe travels, and build precious memories.
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