A family reunion of sorts

[NetG]

After years of estrangement, my dad and aunt were brought back together by the death of their mother. The beauty coming from such a sad event is overwhelming. Saturday was my aunt's birthday, and these are just a few of the shots I got. Even neater, my mom was there, and helping out my stepmother with some of the preparation - we've really just become one big family.

With the whole family together for the first time, the 10+ person dining table was no longer large enough. Two tables to hold the adults, ready for dinner - a third table was needed for the kids in a different room:


My stepsister's youngest who got to meet her (step)great aunt and uncle for the first time this year:




My 13 year old half brother who also got to meet Dad's half of the family for the first time this year... and was having fun with part of his costume:




I got all the settings working and actually let someone else use my camera! I'm in the tank top with my dad to my right and aunt to my left. My older brother and two stepbrothers are also in this shot:

[SoxAddict]

Lovely story, & a neat set of photos. I love the first one - it signifies "reunion"! Nice that you all were able to have one, but sad circumstances obviously.

[DigUpHerBones07]

I really like your first photo too, I like that it represents a reunion without that crazy feeling of people everywhere. Like when you set up and people haven't started coming over yet.

[equilution]

Sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing these with your 'other' family. I like the first one...it has a tilt shift feel to it.

Jim

[NetG]

Originally Posted by SoxAddict

Lovely story, & a neat set of photos. I love the first one - it signifies "reunion"! Nice that you all were able to have one, but sad circumstances obviously.

It's so neat that we have had so much beauty come into our lives since Grandma passed. She was at peace and ready to go after years of physical issues, so really it's all just a blessing now, no matter how we miss her.

Originally Posted by DigUpHerBones07

I really like your first photo too, I like that it represents a reunion without that crazy feeling of people everywhere. Like when you set up and people haven't started coming over yet.

Everyone was outside playing or talking in another room or something. The first one is one of my favorite moments of family gatherings! I get to relax and look and anticipate without the noise and claustrophobia.

Originally Posted by equilution

Sorry for your loss. Thanks for sharing these with your 'other' family. I like the first one...it has a tilt shift feel to it.

Jim

Thanks! I just learned what tilt shift is from you, and can see what you mean!

-Annette

[Heaterguy]

Looked like a wonderful time. Your dad reminds me of Ben Stein.

[NetG]

Originally Posted by Heaterguy

Looked like a wonderful time. Your dad reminds me of Ben Stein.

I just looked at current photos of Ben Stein and compared them to that photo - I can see where you're coming from! In real life I don't think he looks like Ben at all, but in that position their face shapes look very similar.

[leonaashlee]

It's a wonderful thing, but a sad thing that it usually happens due to a death...I've seen it happen so many times.
Thank you for sharing your joy!

[lindyannajones]

What a wonderful story. I love that you would want to share it here with us. I hope the new bonds carry forward to bless the younger generation. Aside: I used to have that table service. I love that blue pattern. It was a treat to see it again. I have fond memories of buying a table service for eight at a store in Obregon, Mexico for $30.

[Desert Rose]

I was so glad to hear that your Dad and aunt finally came to terms with the past. So many years and lost time without speaking. Unfortunately, your grandmother was not able to share this first reunion meal with her family. I'm really glad you shared the story with DPS! I love all of your photos of this wonderful occassion. The doll photo and the table setting shots are my favorites!