Family Re-union

My great grandparents - around the start of last century.

The 3rd Saturday every June is the annual family reunion of all ancestors of my great grandfather.

He immigrated to USA from Germany in the late 1800's and had 13 children.

So naturally, I have a huge extended family.

I was excited to be able to attend my very first family re-union. It was great. They are a wonderful bunch of people. And are all a little excited at the concept of having a bunch of 'newly discovered' cousins from Down Under.

After the re-union it was back to an Uncle's house for more socialising and food. Then we were down to my cousin's hunting club.. as he'd heard word that shot guns and pistols are illegal in Australia and I'd never used one.

I was pretty good too! I hit my first two pigeons straight off the bat and had about at 70% hit ratio.

My little cousin Michael with his shotgun

Then it was back to Mantopia - the second manliest place I've ever seen. It was the hunting club house. I've never seen so much death! It was phenomenal. And it smelt so musty, so manly. Grrrrrr! There were stuffed animals everywhere, a kitchen, bunks, a pool table, air hockey, indoor archery range, couches, tv's. It was a fantastic set up.

I got to 'visit' with all of my relatives and meet a lot of new ones. They are a terrific bunch of people. Down to earth, warm, friendly and great fun. I've promised to return and will aim to do so before another 8 years has passed....