a family reunion

20 years of gathering together in Pismo Beach. Not everyone has been there every year, but for the most part, we've strived to be together every year since 1989. Many of our patriarchs have passed on but in there place are new couples, families, children and even dogs! They call it camping...but it hardly qualifies with all the asphalt, electricity and hi-def cable. I guess what makes it camping is that we spend day and night outdoors, we cook outdoors and we have a campfire every night. There are trailer-trash lights that we glamorize each evening at a ceremonial lighting, and there are still the staples...hot dogs, hamburgers and the expected s'mores each evening. Each evening is filled with laughter at the recounting of some part of the family history and shared family memories. The same stories told and retold year after year after year. Yet, we never tire of them or make corrections to this year's version. We savor the memories and enjoy reliving them. The love of this family tradition completely outweighs any inconveniences. I love the fact that my children look forward to this every year-even travelling here from college for some part of the family time together-bringing friends to join us and share time with this crazy family!
This 'family business' can be tricky, but I think we've got it figured out. We are proof that the love of family supercedes interesting personalities, unusual quirks, oddities and behaviors. They are, simply put, who and what make the memories. This family time is our living history and reliving it every year strengthens its bonds and creates more reason, even desire, to gather together next year! See you there?