Once again my extended family gathered at my parents to celebrate a very early, but now our traditional, Christmas over Labor day weekend.
But our annual “fun in the sun/last hurrah of summer/Christmas celebration” took a very wet turn this year.
The rains we’ve been needing for weeks finally came. And came, and came, and came!
Those that would normally tent were chased inside every night by heavy rain and strong winds. They found whatever floor space they could to throw down their sleeping bags.
The favorite topic of conversation at the breakfast table was “where did you sleep?”
The brave few who found that they could hang their hammocks up in Papa’s Jim outbuildings answered with “above the table saw and just left of the riding mower!”
It was dry long enough for our annual cookout in the grove of trees and for our traditional sock hop that followed. This year’s dance included glow sticks which added a bit of color to the lightning display far to the south.
But we carefully picked everything up and put lawn chairs under cover before the next round hit in the middle of the night.
The crazy amount of rain did little to dampen our enthusiasm! Instead it provided extra entertainment and excitement! Watching the lightning in the distance, gator rides to the river to see how much it was flooding, and eating lunch in the funeral tent in a downpour all made unique and priceless memories!
Amazingly enough, it was the unpredictability of the weekend that provided the most adventure. When the rains stopped for a short while we all ran outside to enjoy the sunshine and when they started again, we’d gather on the porch to chat or find an empty table to play games.
Honestly, if I could have picked the perfect weather for the weekend – rain would not be included. But I’m thankful that Someone much wiser than I knew it would be the perfect addition to a one-of-a-kind family get-together!
And now we all know that soggy moments can sometimes make the very best memories!
Blue Jeans and Cotton Tees 