Impressions of a Family Reunion

I went to Tampa, Florida for a family reunion this weekend. It was fun. Not barrel-of -laughs fun, mind you, but I'm definitely glad I went.

I don't really know that side of the family very well, so it's not so much like a reunion for me as it is a meeting of a bunch of new people (never my favorite pasttime).

I got to spend time with my mum, though, which was nice. Our relationship has changed since I was younger, not necessarily for the better, but it's always good to see her. She always impresses me with her strength and perseverence. She's a survivor, that's for sure.

Speaking of survivors, it was gratifying to see all the old folks in my family who are still alive and kicking, with all their faculties. It's also sad to think that some of them might not be around for the next reunion. There is so much black history there, living history, that I'm ashamed that I don't know more about them.

The weekend was too short, really, even though I was ready to go by the end of it, if that makes sense. It also rained buckets on our picnic on Sunday.

There was also a big Shriners convention in town, but, I'm sorry to say, I only saw one old guy in a funny hat the whole weekend.