What a weekend! We began by driving up to my parents bright and early on Saturday morning so that we could get things set up before the parade. We got done just in time and enjoyed the parade with family. My dad and his group the Loyal Order of the Pumpkin were back in the parade. The girls were super pleased to cheer on their grandpa. And as you can see in the photo, he was thrilled to have so much family support for his efforts. Oh, and did you notice my nails?
This is the second time that Elspeth has celebrated Canada Day but the first time that she has done so as a citizen. We went all out to celebrate these two occassions at once.
As the parade and community barbeque were over, we headed back to my parents’ house to welcome even more family. The last time that we got together as a group was about 7 years ago and that was without our family from Florida. This weekend, however, saw all of us (minus 3 second cousins and spouses and their 4 children) together. I love my family. We are an entertaining bunch. When I think back on my childhood, Christmas eve comes to mind. Driving in a car squished between my Nana and brother driving to a family party. As soon as we walked in there was my great aunt and uncle to greet us along with the rest of the family. I remember visiting another great uncle and dancing for him while being scared of his yapping dog. I remember funerals, weddings, birthdays and showers. At each one I felt safe, loved and happy. I wanted that to gift that sense of belonging to my two so when my cousin suggested a reunion I jumped on the band wagon (Thank you Gil). I am so very glad I did.
While I visited and organized (because no reunion is without it’s hiccups), the girls ran around with family. They played fight the zombies, tag, frisbie, bury our cousin in the sand…pretty much, you name it and it was played. Most importantly they smiled and laughed. This afternoon after we got home and had unpacked Elspeth asked where her friends were.
Elspeth was lucky enough to find people who were willing to let her “tie” their shoes. She never got it quite right but boy was she focused.   
