heirlooms

campfires are not mythical, but they are magical.
(* photos taken by Cammy Fumar)

We have gathered every year since 1981. Before that, we were all together for most of the major holidays: Easter, Mothers Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. But the family just got too large. There were spouses and in-laws to consider, then babies, and it was just too hard to get together every time a holiday rolled around. But we missed each other, dearly. We decided to chuck it all, and to gather together for just one weekend each year: a family campout.

shadows... taken from the inside of my tent

We get along. Brother & sisters, their children and their children's children ~ we love each other and value our time together. People I know say that this is unusual. Perhaps they think that we belong to the Great American Mythical Family. They may be right. Not that we don't have our troubles ~ every family does. But we also have something very, very special, and the Q Family Campout is where it all comes together.

The place and date varies. It's still tough coordinating schedules, not everyone makes it, but somehow we manage. We gather on a Thursday, and depart on Sunday. On Saturday night we have a big ol' potluck dinner, ("something to barbeque and something to share") and even those who are non-campers but are close enough to drive come and join us. Uncle Wayne says the blessing, and we all cry. It's tradition!

part of the great circle of prayer in 2009
not all of us are people of faith, but on this occasion, we bow our heads together.

We began a new tradition a few years back, when Grandma's centennial came around. I guess we're calling it "the candle ceremony", and that's as good a name as any. One hundred (or so) candles are placed on a table. In the center, two pillars in a glass hurricane represent Grandma and Grampa. Surrounding them are candles representing their four children, a son and three daughters, and their spouses. Next, the 16 grandchildren, their spouses, children, and so on.

*2010 - the original four families

The candles are lit in the order of birth, (those who are present light their own candle,) and with each candle the beloved's name and birthdate are spoken. Though we begin in cool darkness, we finish in warmth and light. It is a beautiful thing and never fails to move me.

2009

We miss those who cannot be with us, and rejoice in those who are present. We hug each other, sometimes laugh and often cry. It is a sacred time.

*2010

*2010