Weekend Plans: Another Family Reunion Picnic?

Summers go so fast. I know for my family most weekends are planned long before summer even starts. With that being said, I wouldn’t miss any of it! I love all the mini-trips, the summer activities on the lake, and all the time spent with family.

We currently have been on a string of extended family get-togethers. Growing up I looked at these extended family picnics as excruciating and painful. I knew no one but my siblings or immediate aunts and uncles at these events. My grandma preached about how important it was to connect with these people and was surprised I couldn’t recognize everyone. 

As I have gotten older, had a child of my own, and lost close family members, I have started to realize my grandma was right! Developing these relationships and connecting with these people even if it is only every few years is so important. I may not always remember who does want, share holiday cards every year nor remember whose children are whose. However, these are my roots.

Our roots run deep and are broad. We are influenced by those around us and where we come from. Although I may not be influenced by these people daily, they still speak to who I am, where I came from, and where I am going. Therefore, I encourage you to not miss the next family picnic or reunion. Go with the mindset to have that extra conversation that you may not normally have. Encourage your kids to play with the third cousin removed that they can’t connect how that relationship works!

And of course, who doesn’t love a good potluck and outdoor summer games! These unique events can’t be recreated any other way. Have fun and connect with family that you wouldn’t always do. You may be blessed with a family relationship that takes off in a meaningful way that you weren’t planning on!

Contributed by Jessica Clemens