BLT Reunion 2014 ~ Part 2

 As I began to share in Part 1, the BLT Reunion took place a short time ago.

This year's gathering was held at Lake Anna. It was a positively gorgeous location. Unfortunately we had a lot of rain the majority of the time, but that didn't dampen our spirits. We still found plenty to do. It was so great to be with the majority of our family members. Those who were unable to attend this year were missed. It's always nice to have time together. 

The way we "run" the reunion is pretty cool. Two families sign up to provide one meal. That's the only meal you have to worry about preparing, serving, and cleaning up after. It goes without saying though that everyone is willing to pitch in and help as needed. Emile and I signed up for Saturday morning breakfast. We served a continental style breakfast. The night before we left for Lake Anna, we baked a variety of muffins. In addition to that we served various hot and cold cereals, yogurts, applesauce, fresh fruits, juices, and hot cocoas. Being the "overachiever" I am, I had to make sure that everything not only tasted good, but also looked appealing. Everyone seemed to enjoy what was offered, and there was plenty left over to "munch on" throughout the weekend. Next year I plan on doing the same thing. I love serving the first morning....

Some of the highlights of the reunion include the family meeting we hold. It's a nice opportunity for everyone to be "updated" on events that have taken place during the previous year. As I already mentioned, we were missing a few loved ones. Teresa's husband, Lee, Cindy's husband, Keith, Ben, Anya, and their three kiddos, Tony, and Corey, were unable to attend. In all fairness, it wasn't until I was on my way to this years reunion that it dawned on me that we have never invited Corey (our dad's son from his second marriage) to join us for the BLT. We discussed it at the family meeting and everyone agreed that Corey (and his soon to be wife, Mallory) is absolutely going to be invited to attend from this point forward. He is a part of our family as well.... and we want him to be included in more family gatherings. I really hope they are able to join us next year.

From B-Brenda, L-Lucinda, and T-Teresa, you get the picture of what the future is looking like. These little ones are the third generation.... the ones who will someday, hopefully, continue with the tradition which was started a few years ago. If I have to count correct, we "officially" have 46 family members (strictly from we three sisters, and our two brothers). As the years pass those numbers are going to grow, and obviously as some of us pass away, the numbers will also shrink. But how cool is it to see our posterity all together like this?!! To make it a priority to gather together, to visit, play games, enjoy being entertained by the talented "little ones," watch movies, share meals, reminisce, and make new memories is really what family is about. Next year will bring new opportunities. Some will be missing (due to possible work assignments, missions, personal challenges), but we will still carry on the gathering... We will celebrate all that makes us the wonderful family we are.