In 2004 my cousin Jeff had a wonderful idea to start having a big family meal again. It was planned that the Sunday before Thanksgiving we would have an early Thanksgiving for the whole family to get together. Our new tradition was that we would make a main course as our great grandmother would have. We each bring a dish, but cook something (this year it was chicken pot pie) in kettles over an open fire outside. We have made chicken corn soup, apple butter, and the traditional turkey. It has been so great for all of the family to get to pitch in and spend the day together. This is what I am thankful for. It is also great that the great grandchildren and the great-great grandchildren have an opportunity to get to know one another as some of them live a few hours away.
My grandfather just had his 90th birthday in September and God willing we will have him for years to come, but it is wonderful to see his joy at having the whole family together. Here is the family photo from this year (minus about 18 people):
This represents my dad and his brothers and sisters and their families. This gives you an idea of how large our family is. The extended family is huge! I'm constantly finding out about more cousins ;0). So, I hope everyone has a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Eat lots of turkey, spend time with loved ones, and then take a nap! :0)
6 comments:
Awwww, that's really sweet that you get together with your whole extended family. That doesn't happen on my mom's side of the family after a strange falling-out years ago and on my dad's side, I just have two crazy old bachelor uncles. Nick's family is large enough on its own without including any extra relatives, so we don't have the opportunity to celebrate holidays with them either.
No pictures of the food! I wanted to see the food!
But it all sounds wonderful!
Sounds like a great time, Missy! We had a smallish gathering this year, just six of us, but it was a damn fine time. With damn fine leftovers.
Angela, I'm sorry you don't get to celebrate like that, but I'm sure that both have their advantages! ;0)
Hi Melly, I'm sorry, but I didn't have my camera. The picture in the post was courtesy of my cousin...I will make sure to get some food pictures at Christmas just for you.
Melissa, it really was lovely. I'm glad to hear that you also had a great holiday! And, the leftovers are the best part ;0)
That sounds like a very good tradition. Is that your new fella?
Hi Nan! I'm really glad that this tradition was started...I look forward to it every year. Jeremy isn't in the picture. He was bear hunting. But, I will post a pic in flickr for you ;0)
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