In addition to celebrating my parents’ 50th anniversary, our reunion included all the things we’ve grown to enjoy together and this year we were stationed in Park City, Utah.
We hiked Blood’s Lake. We did this same hike a few years ago and there was still snow around the lake. This year, the weather was much more agreeable and the kids were happy to get in the water even if it was a little chilly.
The kids were entertained at the local swimming pool. We were all a little surprised the lifeguards let their shenanigans go on as long as they did. But once Briggs was hanging from Hunter’s hands they blue the whistle.
We spent the afternoon at the local rec center. Immediately upon entering the facility, the kids took to the turf soccer field and the adults followed. What resulted was the most competitive game of family soccer with all ages included. And if the younger cousins thought the older cousins would go soft on them – they were sorely mistaken. It has been years since I’ve played on a soccer field – I think I was in college – and I was out there ready to break a leg. All my siblings played soccer. And almost every grandkid has played or is currently playing. It was intense. It was fun. And we played for over an hour. And the best part is my parents watched from the sidelines just like they always have. I wish I could have captured the grin across my dad’s face as we watched us battle each other. I wish I could say we ended injury free but we did have two rolled ankles that ended up swelling and bruising nicely. All for the love of the game.
We spent time at the local park. Rounds of bucket golf and wiffle ball. We are a competitive bunch.
Went to dinner with my parents and siblings/spouses.
We cheered and groaned loudly watching World Cup soccer games and we got lots of cousin time.
I’m grateful every year we’re able to pull off this reunion. The older everyone gets, the harder it is find a time and space to fit our group. And this summer, the first grandchild got married, so our group is starting to grow at a faster pace.
I will continue to fight for this reunion, as complicated as it may get. There is so much value in gathering under the same roof and our relationships have been strengthened over the years because of it. Family is everything.
