Reunions!

Over 15 years ago, we started - or maybe re-started - a Clayton Family reunion. Somehow it kept going - it really never got everyone on board. Paul's family showed up once or twice but only stayed a few minutes. But before his death, Paul came and stayed and visited. Never got Byron's family there - I called and talked to Byron about it every time - he put me off. I talked to his daughter who said she'd get him there, but it didn't happen. Ted's youngest boy Jim came a couple of times. Jane and Peter Gilbert's families were well-represented. Anne and her family were usually on board.

And everyone of Bob's kids showed up more than once! I think? Not sure about David. Will have to check.

Mom was the center of it all - she didn't intend to be or want to be but everyone gravitated to her - and she's not a Clayton by blood, but she knows everyone in the family. And I think everyone wanted someone to represent the essence of what the Clayton family is - and she did that job well

We are still having them every other year. Not sure who is the Mother Figure - just glad everyone comes! And that we've streamlined it so it isn't a whole lot of work and money!

Families grow exponentially - thus family reunions can get unwieldy - but many have moved away and don't make the trek, so it's still pretty manageable.

Glad we're not scheduled for this year - with the pandemic and all - and sure hope it's gone by 2021!!