Summer is usually a great time for families to get together, reconnect, and catch up on old times which is always great. I enjoy hearing the old school music, watching our children run around with their cousins, and listening to the elders tell stories from way, way, way, way back when. I love the various sounds of laughter, dominoes slamming on the table, trash talk during the spades game, and forks hitting the plate all going on simultaneously. And, let’s not forget the precious babies being passed from lap to lap or the hugs shared when the newest spouse is introduced. I LOVE FAMILY REUNIONS!!
Here are my top five tips for surviving the family reunion:
- Don’t sit at the spades or dominoes table unless you can actually play the games. Just know that when people sit down at these tables during the reunion they are representing for their whole lineage and will take no prisoners. Most families only have reunions every two or more years therefore, the tournament winners have at least 730 days of bragging rights before defending their title again. Please believe, family will hear about this again, and again, and again, and again, and again, and…
- Have games and activities lined up for various age groups of children and adults to help keep everyone engaged and participating throughout the day. For example, in the small children area include toys, coloring books, crayons, etc. In the early elementary area have various board games, family card games, etc. Include a selfie station for the tweens/teens and even consider putting them in charge of being the photographers for the event. The whole family can see and share the photos by creating a unique social media hashtag. Finally, include games for the adults like a newlywed game or family feud as part of the event entertainment.
- Be prepared for the family elders to say whatever is on their mind! Age has given the family elders authority to speak it as soon as it enters their minds so if you are short, get ready to hear about it. If your baby is ugly then come out of denial and get ready to face the music followed by a “bless his heart.” If you are overweight or obese get ready to hear all their weight loss tips, even if they are big themselves. If you are single and over 30, you better have a great explanation as to why you aren’t married yet accompanied with a matrimony timeline. Now deciding whether or not to #clapback is up to you. I just suggest that you respect their age, smile, and keep it pushing until you’ve hugged all of them.
- Go on a detox at least 1 week prior to the event. Drink plenty of water and eat EXTRA healthy. You may have to travel for your trip which means you might have to fast food along the way. Plus, you know your favorite uncle will have the BBQ on point and your aunts, grandmother, cousins, and own mother will have assorted sweets available for all reunion attendees. Don’t be afraid to use this reunion as your cheat day or cheat weekend but prepare your body in advance and don’t skip the leafy green salad at the event.
- Last, but certainly not least learn all the latest line dances before you go. In fact, if you are over 30, learn all the newest dances just so you can show up the young people. I love the look of surprise on their faces when out dance them in something that was made up yesterday. #yougotserved
So as you pack, plan, and detox in preparation for your family reunion don’t forget the most important thing to do is have fun and make memories. Enjoy seeing your awesome features and characteristics in your great grandparents, grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, cousins, children, and even those twice removed. Love on everyone! Hug on everyone! Take a picture with everyone! Remember, time spent enjoying family is definitely time well spent.
Make this reunion memorable,
Ta’Neisha K.
Marriage, Motherhood, & Homeschool 