All families have that one member who’s a nutritional overachiever.” – Unknown

I had to laugh when I read this quote. Our family knows good humor and it’s always a good time when we gather.  There is even has a place for “nutritional under-achievers,” and  we are well-taken care of by the others.

Now, our numbers are so large just among my 4 siblings, their kids and grandkids ( nearing 40)  it is no wonder my mom, (pictured hosting her/ and our last BIG fall gathering), knew when it was time to pass the torch to the next generations. God bless her and my Dad – they are probably sitting at the table of the Good Lord every Sunday, making sure all members are accounted for here on Earth. Fourteen live in other States, others locally. All come running when able or needed.

I have wonderful memories of our Sunday gatherings with my paternal grandparents and their only child, their son (my Dad), Mom and us 4 grandkids. We had plenty of room and sharing in the conversation was much easier. My grandmother more than made up for the lack of bodies by the number of dishes (always China) and even then every conceivable food stuff you could think of, including what was requisite back then – always the bread basket filled with warm rolls, and sliced bread. No doubt, one-hundred twenty-four years later, she’s not turned a blind eye either and knows exactly how fertility happens.

Today, I’ve been indulgent sharing my love for writing about a shiny window into a life.  I promise, I hold some writing about my own family in check most of the time.  Let’s get realistic. We too, have many windows of time when I or my big family is challenged in every conceivable way and in all proportions. There are not always clear windows. Some days are foggy. That’s life, and memoir writing. There are those who find sharing their stories much too painful so they are held close to the chest.

Post #3 in the series will be published on 10/29/2024.I will soon share an interesting post about this very subject. Will you join us again? Look forward to it.