Celebrating family... more joy!

 I think I didn't realize how lucky I am for the family - immediate with my Mom, Dad, brothers... my brother's families... and their families... and my many, many cousins.  My Dad's family has a large reunion every three years. It first began with us all meeting in the Branson, MO area. I remember as a kid going, enjoying Silver Dollar City, canoing the river, swimming, eating, and more with all the Uncles and Aunts and the many, many cousins.

We've since then moved the reunion to different locations. We've grown together, partied together, hugged on each other in places like Williamsburg (VA), Keystone (SD), South Haven (MI), Red River, Pigeon Forge (TN) and many places in Colorado.  These are extraordinary weekends. We just have a lot of fun, enjoying what the places have to offer - together.  

Some may be thinking how does family relate to joy?  I mean, many of our family members we see and/or talk with a lot.  But do we really think about the joy they bring? Do we slow down and enjoy those little moments?  Sharing pictures - now digitally - gives a lot more time to just enjoy the moments each of us are having, even if there is a distance between us. 

Our last reunion was delayed a year, because of the pandemic. We didn't get to have everyone, but still had a lot. It's always one of the best times and I'm so thankful we do this. 

So... here's to the "McShran" family (McNeals, Shracks, and Randles). 💖



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