Cherish your human connections, your relationships with friends and family- Barbara Bush
Family Reunion (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Granny, how am I related to him? “Well, let’s see, you’re double kin because between Pop and me, you’re cousins on both sides”. This was my life story, growing up in a small town. It’s a wonder I ever found anyone to “like”. Thankfully, by the time I was in for serious dating, we had moved away and there was a smorgasbord of available young men who I had no familial ties to whatsoever.
I originally had mixed emotions this past weekend about attending a family reunion. When I was younger, it had seemed that being related was more trouble than anything. The fact that I am a notorious introvert probably contributed to my angst. The plus was that my husband would be with me and he is the opposite and usually fills in the gaps for me.
In the past, the mere thought of chatting it up all day with a large gathering of people would have sent me hunting an excuse to retreat. This time though, I made reservations as soon as I heard about it and for the most part, looked forward to it. Do we crave this type of interaction more as we age because we’re afraid of being old and lonely so we are trying to add to our list of go to friends? Or, are my forties just going to continue being full of surprises for me?
We arrived at the beautiful park where it was being held and I was anxious to hear some of the almost forgotten stories, figure out who was who and get reacquainted with old friends and family. I also wanted to get a look at that family tree and try to figure out this double-kin stuff for once and for all.
I enjoyed watching the children running around, sounds of their laughter mixed with the lighthearted banter of the adults. I took pleasure in the grandparents proudly displaying pictures of the most brilliant grandchild ever to be born and some of the “elder” cousins harmlessly arguing in the same way they probably did in their younger days. The food was plentiful and delicious and I hoarded some of my Aunts delectable fudge for later in the hotel room.
I was honestly surprised at how much I enjoyed myself as in the past I ran from this type of event. But on this beautiful Saturday, I found myself hoping for another one next year, making silent vows to see some of these people more often. Some are old and we don’t know how much time we have left, to hear their stories and learn about them as well as from them. So I ask myself again….Have I really changed that much or do I now just finally possess the wisdom to appreciate them more?
Whatever the answer, I am blessed to have so many wonderful and interesting relatives. There are a lot of similarities and also some differences, but when all is said and done, we are blood. We should get to know each other, be there for each other and love one another regardless of differences.
Long walks and dark chocolate 
Love this.
Thank you!
Lisa, I was hoping you would blog about our reunion. But this entry exceeded all expectations. 🙂 I didn’t realize you were an introvert, too. I used to shun ANY type of social event like this. I don’t think I went to the last Boggess reunion, in the 80’s. Didn’t go to the Everglades City School reunion last year(?) either. I remember at my parent’s 50th wedding anniversary in 1996, I was tense the whole time until most of the people left, and then it was just the ones we were closest too. But at this reunion I was barely nervous at all. Mom said she couldn’t believe I actually wanted to go. Maybe there ARE some good things about getting older. I related to everything you wrote in this entry, and I do think we crave and cherish the family connections as we grow older. Getting to see the older ones at the reunion was precious, and who knows how many will still be here next time. I’m glad we got so many pictures of them. We really need to make this event an annual tradition. I’m really glad you came. 🙂
Thanks for your comments, Joy – I appreciate the encouragement – Good to know who my fellow-introverts are too 😉 We did very well!! Blessings!
Ladies, I can relate to you both. In school, I was always the shy quiet one. I always did my part in organizing or setting up things, but then shied away once things got going. Ask Jr. I remember one of our family vacations with Christi (Tammy’s) family…and Christi commenting to me, “Boy, Laurie, I guess we, The Batemans, have rubbed off on you since you are participating in the conversation now.” I really enjoyed the reunion. I was hesitate to come with leaving Tommy and all, but am so glad I did…I really relaxed that day. Enjoyed meeting everyone and reconnecting with others I have met before. You both are right…we need to try and make this an annual event again. Glad to meet you both!
It was wonderful to meet you to Laurie; thanks for reading, commenting 🙂
I like research. New research out says that the brain of an introvert is different than that of an extrovert. They perceive things differently. I believe that you can simply Google introvert and get
the research. It is interesting. It almost led me to believe that they are smarter too. They study the
situation silently and get a take on things before they move in. Read up on it.
I have studied it also and it has helped me understand myself so much better!!! Thanks for taking the time to comment 🙂