Reunion

I had the greatest time this weekend, hanging out with my mom's family and Banana. We went to Langley, BC, for semi-decadal (that's every fifth year) Key Family picnic.

Five years is enough time for family members to change and gather some stories to keep you entertained. I had found I had graduated from 'active parenting' (cutting meat, slathering my child with sunscreen, keeping her entertained/out of harm's way) to the Elders' Circle that sips the beverage of their choice, feet in the kiddie pool and watches with bemusement as the Active Parents do their thing.

I was also very proud of my daughter as she mingled with her kin, finding them all to be funny, witty and entertaining (which they are, in their own ways). I was happy to spend some time with my cousin and her new baby. I am fully aware of how much energy it takes to be the parent of a toddler and am soooo glad that it is her and Tom that are starting on that journey and not me.

I'm watching Banana make plans to leave the nest. Vancouver is a likely landing spot. She identifies with the bohemian lifestyle (all the good and bad parts) and sees herself fitting in with the Commercial Drive crowd. We spent some time riding the train system there and an afternoon on The Drive. If she can afford the rent there, I'm sure she'll be happy.

Nolan and Sean

Jeff, Chris and Tom

Mom and Aunt Eileen

Mom's cousin Bob and Aunt Mona

Family Tug-o-War (the winning side)

Aunt Kay (the reunion host) and Aunt Eileen

Charles and Sean (and a problem with the camera is developing)

Tom, Nolan and Heather (and the beer is not Nolan's, don't worry)

John, Diane, Sandra, Eileen and a new addition to the Circle of Elders.

The Auction of Prizes, where you spend the points accumulated during the Feats of Skill.
Our reunions were complicated affairs.