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| Mountain gathering from years past. |
Today those gatherings are less frequent for many reasons. First, family members are more spread out. When I was a child most of my family members lived in the same city. Next, family members are engaged in a multitude of endeavors with a variety of schedules. When I was young, most families had a similar daily routine and schedule. Most moms were home during the day and most dads worked a regular daily schedule. And, of course and like all things in life today, COVID impacted our extended family routines, schedules and traditions. With all of this in mind, I'm rethinking family traditions.
As I think of family, I use the definition that your family are those who are closest to you which means that family includes both friends and relatives. I like this broad, inclusive definition of family.
Holidays and Special Events
I want the younger members of my family to experience the great joy and happiness I felt as a child at our extended family gatherings. I also want them to know each other because there is strength in having good family connections since we're able to help each other out. For example one of my sons is working at a resort location where many family members live. If my son needs help, I know that family members are there to help him. My son is also available to help them if needed. To keep our family close, I'll continue to host as well as help out with extended family gatherings for holidays and special events.
Family reunions
Since our extended family is very large, we have a few yearly reunions including Christmas holiday events as well as a summer beach meet-up. These events are open to anyone who wants to come, and is one way to keep the family connections close without great expense or expectation. Our family is simply too big to invite everyone to weddings, graduations and other special events so these family reunions are great.
On a smaller scale, my siblings and I have a yearly reunion in the mountains which includes a shared dinner, big hike and a host of other activities. Everyone in the family is invited and every year a different composition of family members attend. This is a special event because it continues the great gift of mountain hiking and family adventures that my mom and dad gave to us throughout our lives--a gift we hope that our children will continue in their own lives.
For my own smaller, intimate family, we have a number of weekend get togethers in eventful places as well as regular dinners and outdoor adventures that help us stay in touch with one another in enjoyable ways.
Family history page
Right now we have a few family social media sites to share updates about family events and family history. I enjoy sharing the stories of the past as well as celebrating the good news of the day with my extended family.
I grew up having a lot of fun with my great, big extended family. I hope to continue this tradition in ways that are inclusive and enjoyable in the days to come.