It wasn't as frantic as it has been at other times when we have family get-togethers. Actually it really seemed as though we actually had things well in hand. A lot of this was thanks to good planning and lots of hands to help setting up the furniture, putting cushions out on the patio and around the pool, and arranging all the food, including making room for all the dishes that arrived throughout the day.
The 'guests' began to arrive shortly before noon, each bringing with him or her a piece of the story that has been celebrated over the past 45 years. Many of these tidbits are well known to family members, and the result is that we greet each other with warmth and enthusiasm whenever we have the opportunity to see each other.
As the day wore on, there were some who congregated at various locations throughout the property to chat, to catch up with one another, and to explore. We shared a wonderful meal, and fetted the guests of honor. We even found time to celebrate a birthday or two, of course in the appropriate manner.
After all the gifts had been exchanged, the festivities had been enjoyed, and people began to drift away from this moment and into the next, it's now time to give thanks for the occasion that this day has been. In today's society, I wonder how many times an occasion such as this presents itself. Forty-five years of marriage? A family that actually can celebrate together with joy and not be divided by competition, jealosy or rift? Friends, some of which we've known for more decades than I can count, who are willing to travel for one, two or three hours just to be present for a few hours so they can partake in the celebration?
All of this is very good.
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