Monday, January 7, 2008

FAMILY REUNION





Many, many years have gone by since our family's had a Family Reunion, and without planning, it happened this beautiful January 2008. My dad came from the north of Brazil, heading to Rio, with his wife and my 2 half sisters. Along came my half brother with his wife from Rio for a 10 day vacation and their beautiful blue eyed baby daughter. My older brother also miraculously was able to come with his ADORABLE little girl, who conquered all our hearts. With Joey and I finally here with Lance, it completed the family. We were 11 siblings, 3 parents, 3 authentic grandchildren and 2 additions, plus 1 son-in-law and 3 daughters-in-law. We had a special Brazilian dish one day, which we were all craving for many years, "Vatapa and Caruru" all from the north of Brazil, where my parents are from. Dulci once again outdid herself and lavished us. The next day we had a family barbecue at the house, with lots of beer and my dad's favorite whisky.
One of the highlights was watching my dad and most of my siblings play together in their band. It's amazing how so talented they all are, even my sister puts on a show in her singing abilities. Dancing and laughing weren't skewed, and everyone was so thankful to have this precious time. We sat around late in the evening telling stories of past funny events in our lives, and remnenscing in time. I don't know when will be the next time, if ever we will, have this reunion again.
Families remind me of the love God has for us, to be loved and cared, to belong to something so dear, that makes life worth living.
Each of my brothers is a world of their own, and they each ad to our family in such a wonderful way. Seing my dad was also a thrill, it'd been too many years. I could see the change, feel the wisdom in his spirit and partake of his endearing and patient aura. A real patriarch. I love you Dad!

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