Families -- Isn't it About Time

 Families are the compass that guide us. They are the inspiration to reach great heights, and our comfort when we occasionally falter.-Brad Henry

     Hallelujah for summer -- a time for family reunions and fun!  You don't have to go to exotic beaches, or distant states to have a terrific family reunion. Our recent reunion started at Abajo Haven just north of Blanding, with comfy accommodations and an informative and fun hike along the rim of the canyon.  Bill Haven, the owner and tour guide, taught us about Blanding’s first ditch, and early ruins in the area and later stepped in as large group photographer -- no small feat with 40 people.  Besides the fun at this wonderful reunion spot, our activities also spilled over into Recapture, Monticello, the Blanding pool, and was highlighted by the baptism of a granddaughter, and blessing of a new grandson.  It will surely be a reunion long remembered and cherished.

Whether you are a parent or grandparent, summer usually provides abundant opportunities to interact with children and grandchildren.  A few months ago, our “empty nester” Home Evening group came up with a list of things that they could  do with their grandchildren that could have a positive influence upon them.  Some of their suggestions included teaching grandkids games they used to play:  Mother, May I; Jolly, Jolly Butcher Boy; Annie I Over; Red Rover; Jump rope rhymes; Jacks; Red Light, Green Light; Kick the Can; No Bears Out Tonight; etc.  Games are not only fun but allow parents to help children learn to be good sports and play fairly.

Some families, besides the Osmonds, may have organized a family band or a concert, making sure everyone participates.  Some teach a skill to family members. For several years Norma Madden has organized a quilt camp for daughters and granddaughters, which gives family members a chance not only to learn sewing skills, but to appreciate Norma’s love of quilting and her creativity.

Our Granddaughter Laurie won a blue ribbon this year at the Tooele County Fair.  This was her first quilt, and I was so happy be got to work together as she learned how to sew.

  Diane Balch sometimes holds scrapbooking days with grandchildren, helping them preserve special memories of their school year.  The pages completed are just a bi-product of the real goal of engendering love and building relationships.  Brother Balch on the other hand is likely to pull grandsons up on the roof, and teach them a thing or two about shingling or take them on a hike.

Autumn and Theron's family with the much valued Leah!

On the other extreme, are those families whose skills might include burping contests, or playing pranks.  Recently one of my sons tricked me into believing he was calling from the Animal Control Office in West Valley City.  Even though I hadn’t actually lost Autumn’s dog, he told me a complaint was filed concerning their golden lab who was unleashed, and that a citation would be issued!  Family humor, is also a good trait to pass along—however, both parties need to find it funny!  I’m still looking for revenge!!

Many grandparents plan special trips with children and grandchildren.  One grandmother we met in Idaho, camped with her grandchildren for a week, teaching them about her love for nature, canoeing, camp cooking, etc.  Others may form a chef’s school or 4-H clubs and teach bread making, cooking, gardening, or some other survival skill kids need. 

My husband’s, favorite things to do with grandkids is fishing, hiking, playing games, taking them on a cart rides behind our lawn mower, juggling, magic tricks, and telling corny jokes.  My neighbor Silvia recently helped grandchildren organize and run a yard sale.  She and Brian also try very hard to be at all family milestone events, even whdn it involves back to back weekend trips to Phoenix.  There are many ways to be a positive influence.

Those who are tech-savy might teach family members how to create a blog, make a DVD show for a family event, or create a memory book on-line.  (Or switch the skill around and let grandchildren teach you!)  All these activities inculcate commutation, doing, and sharing.  When it comes to building relationships, isn’t it “about time.”