We had a family meeting last night. All five children were there, as well as spouses and lots of good food. Topic: Mum & Dad's future. LBH's sister Marty mentioned that her colleagues at work had warned her of the fighting that would ensue, and how she had assured them that it absolutely would not. She was, of course, correct. I'm not sure what Mum & Dad's formula was for creating such a functional and loving family. I'm not sure they even had a formula, or if what they got was the natural consequence of who they are. The meeting was loving, supportive, full of gratitude on all sides, and hilarious. We spent every minute talking and catching up with siblings and in-laws, but after several hours, I found myself sitting quietly, just for a moment, listening and watching. Taking mental notes: this is what a functional family looks like. I was very thankful to be included in their numbers.
There were off-color jokes galore, and I'm nothing if not irreverent, so it was a great time. Also, for your information and edification, please note that party sausages here are called Little Boys . You may imagine the rest of the conversation.
I love good family time. And I LOVE the Howard family!
ReplyDelete"Functional" can take on many forms.
ReplyDeleteHaving married into a very "functional and loving" family I can appreciate the time you could spend together. It's a blessing indeed!
ReplyDeleteMy family likes to say that we put the "fun" in dysfunctional. I hope that's an indication of how fun and functional we really are. :) I understand what you mean about soaking up the good rays of a loving, in-law family--I feel that every time I'm with CHB's family. It is a gift.
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