In every culture there is a special summertime celebration where it is traditional for families to gather and compare stories, promotions, achievements, and baby pictures.  For our rather large blended family consisting of Polks & Pilands, that tradition usually occurs sometime in July.  Dad & Carol rent a large country bbq and concert hall for the occasion so the kids can ride their scooters on the dance floor, and the larger ones can share a table of digital games.

This year was particularly memorable, with several new babies added to the group.  Amanda and Sean proudly presented their now walking Kellan, who tried to break a leg on the scooter.  Of course, Matt and Ika brought their Bo, who quietly read his “cloth” Swedish book.  He’ll be more cerebral like his mom I guess.  The newest member, just 5 months old, Sunni, showed off her gerber-baby cheeks to everyone.  The best news is that all of the cousins love their time together, and never want to leave.  After several hours of running shoeless over a dance floor that may be less than immaculate by our standards at home, the dirty feet had to be wiped down before the shoes went back on:)

Then there were the “older” grandkids, Joey’s Paisley & Tobyn.  They are entering their junior and senior years in high school.  Where does the time go?  Paisley is showing a great deal of talent in art and photography.  She is teaching several art classes at the gallery where her mom works.  In fact, she is leaning toward teaching art as a career path after college.  I encouraged her, advising that after many years of substitute teaching, art or music would be the only subjects I would support her teaching at this point.  At least these are two classes the kids really enjoy participating in.  Tobyn is very involved in ROTC and has already researched all the colleges that would allow him to attend with a full ride ~ of course he would be expected to spend some time in service after.  He’s definitely ready.  Can’t believe what amazing young adults these two have become, before my very eyes.

What a wonderful family tradition Dad & Carol have gifted us with.  As I look back over the years, it is difficult to imagine this all started almost 40 years ago.  One thing is for sure, we never want to let this tradition die.  No matter how far apart we live, it is certainly worth the trip for this amazing gathering.