[or-roots] Reunions

[George Ross]

Our family reunions vary in locations from Georgia to Montana...that's where the family first moved in the late 1800's... or in Oregon, Washington, or Nevada.  We hold our reunions every two years so families can plan ahead.  

This year it was held at Silver Falls near Salem, Oregon.  This is one of the most favored spots of all the locations.  With excellent accommodations (there are several lodges as well as individual cabins) to the wonderful meals (that take into consideration various food needs of the cousins) we spend a weekend catching up on family news and renewing our ties with the various cousins of several generations.  

The conference center has held several of our activities which may include 
  a.. a personal spotlight (usually a PowerPoint)  of our most senior family members,
  b.. Karaoke Night
  c.. Casino Night with "phunny" money provided and cool things to buy with our winnings
  d..  Silent auctions and an oral auction to raise seed money for the next reunion. Everyone brings something to be auctioned which might include home made items (jams, crochet items, wooden toys) as well as themed baskets: Especially for Baby, Back to School supplies, spa and bath items, movie nite, Christmas or Easter baskets, and the most popular this year was an antique suitcase filled with old and unique sewing  items that sold for over $130.
  e.. Our Sunday morning devotional service includes special music by several family members, talks and a sharing time for family
  f.. Talent shows
  g.. DVD's and videos playing of past reunions and the recording of the current reunion for posterity
We also have synchronized swimming competition held in the pool and a golf tournament at a local course no matter where we are.

Whether we are picnicking at "The Dell" or singing hymns at the little white church in Georgia, on a boat ride on Flathead Lake or combing through the tall grass at the family cemetery in Montana these hours with our extended family are truly treasured. 

Laughter and song fill the air along with flying Frisbees, art activities and special games for the kids,  and just good old conversation for the adults are a part of every reunion.  Sometimes we have shirts, hats, mugs or some other kind of souvenir that will remind us of the particular setting.

We always have name tags that not only have our name but include the date and location of the reunion.

The "Cousins' Photo" is now taken digitally and can be shared over the internet and printed by those who wish to have a copy.

We are headed to Montana in '08 and know the time will be really GREAT!!!!
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