There's not a lot to be said in favour of going to family funerals except that it's a time when families get together. In ours it's also a time when someone always says, "We really should meet other than at funerals" and then forgets all about it until the next family obsequies.
After my sister's funeral in 2011 I decided to organise an annual family picnic at Clumber Park, a National Trust property in Nottinghamshire. Organise is maybe too strong a word for what I do - I choose a date, specify where we will go and tell everyone to bring their own food, chairs and anything else they want. I can't say it's ever well attended but those who come enjoy it.
Last Sunday was "The Day" and six of us met up. There would have been eight but Clumber was very busy and two managed to get lost in the park. Three hours non-stop chatter, a lot of sandwiches and quite a bit of lemonade later we all went home but not before someone took this charming photo of yours truly. I think I would make an excellent standard lamp.
What a great idea! We have an annual family reunion but everyone bring a dish (or several) plus a dessert. We are like a gluttonous tribe, Our reunion should be called eat, talk, nap (or at least need to nap)
ReplyDeleteWhat a great idea!! I like this much better than the regimented family reunion we attend every 2 years.
ReplyDeleteGod bless.
Its something we should do as we are now all spread over the Country and rarely see each other. It is so nice to see you, although your comment about the lamp did make me smile.
ReplyDeleteMy dad was one of 12. Growing up, I had 32 prolific cousins. I've lost count of their offspring. We had rip roaring, fun and funny reunions for years. Now there are only 2 aunts left and we don't do reunions anymore. I commented to one of my aunts about the lack of them. Her reply: we still have them, we just renamed them. Now we call them funerals. Sad but true.
ReplyDeleteSounds like a lovely day!
ReplyDeleteNow that's a fantastic highlight to the summer!
ReplyDeleteI'm glad your Standard Lamp pose inspired someone to take your photo - very fetching! I love your shopping bag; I have one with the same slogan. Ooops! Similar slogan - Mine states "Take the Old Bag shopping"! It appeals to my sense of humour. Rosemary xx
ReplyDeleteWhat a lovely post, Mary and lots of super replies. Makes me think I ought to "DO" something. I usually organise reunions for people I meet on holiday, one group has been going since 1993 and another from 1996, however it is sad to see numbers dwindle. I am due to meet the 1996 group on the 19th July at Meadow Hall!!!! but we are down to 4 now.
ReplyDeleteSee you soon. Mandyx