I have been blessed in many ways, one of which is a tight-knit family. And I can say with all certainty, that my grandmother was responsible for setting an example of how we should maintain this special bond.
In fact, she lived it in front of us. She was a God-fearing woman, who was slow to judge and quick to forgive. In turn, she epitomized unconditional love. Don't get me wrong: my family is not immune to making mistakes and bad decisions, some of which are hurtful to those we love. In fact, we're as proficient at disagreeing and making unpopular choices as is any other family.
And I must also ensure those reading this article that Granny was not one to simply ignore bad decisions, especially when they adversely affected others. In fact, she was quick to point out our wrongs, on occasion. However, she was equally as eager to put our mistakes behind us, once they had been addressed.
She was gifted in the sense that her words, regardless of how stern they might be, were always obviously relayed with love, which is one of the reasons her suggestions were always heavily considered, and she was always treated with total respect.
It was a hard pill for all of us to swallow when Granny passed away as she had played such an important role in our lives. She had been the pillar to lean upon, and we would all miss her dearly.
I recognized yet another issue when we told Granny goodbye. She was the matriarch of our family; the glue that held everyone together. And when my mother's passing followed only one year later, I grew even more concerned that the family unity we had all taken for granted would dwindle.
That in mind, I contacted and shared my concerns with all of my cousins. They, too, shared my sentiments. It was a troubling issue that weighed heavy on our hearts, That in mind, we made the decision to dedicate one weekend a year to gathering and fellowshipping.
It was important to choose a specific date for our annual get-together; a time that we could mark on our calendars. And after serious discussion and consideration, we chose the Memorial Day weekend.
We also came to the conclusion that we should meet on Granny's property, as this was the place where we had all experienced an unwavering security and a healthy dose of love, regardless of the circumstances.
Her house still stands today. However, I found it important to fellowship in the midst of Mother Nature, as I was confident that Granny's passion for being outdoors was only preceded by God and her family.
We have since gathered on the property, on Memorial Day weekend, religiously. And it warms my heart to know that the core group of cousins who shared my sentiments have always attended without fail.
Well, we just wrapped up our most recent gathering, and it, too, was a hit. Of course, we savored the opportunity to share memories and laughs, but there is another activity which became a tradition as well. In fact, it was an activity which Granny excelled at. You got it. I'm referring to cooking.
That in mind, a great deal of thought always goes into the meals that will be prepared during this much-anticipated weekend. Well, this year's annual outing was no different.
We kicked the first evening off by pounding chicken breasts into patties and tossing them on the grill. Slather one's favorite condiments on a bun, add meat and cheese, and we're talking a grilled chicken sandwich unsurpassed.
Grilled hamburgers followed on the following afternoon for lunch. And after sitting in the smoker for several hours, ribs were devoured, along with potato salad, baked beans and macaroni salad during the dinner hour.
Sunday was somewhat of a day of rest as we pitched a few dogs on the grill for our supper. But that was fine and dandy, as we were all focused on the annual breakfast that we all look forward to on Memorial Day.
Gathering bright and early, my cousin Chris and I began preparing the meal that was most special of all. It was the final gathering before everyone began to return to their homes.
This meal has always proven even more special to me, as it is a menu that Chris and I always cook together, let alone the fact that his gravy recipe was handed down by Granny. Add sausage and biscuits to the mix, hash browns on the side and a heaping helping of eggs, and we're talking a setting that will be enjoyed by all.
Well, the holiday weekend is now behind us, and we have all returned to the grinds of everyday life. However, the memories of spending time in the midst of the wonderful outdoors, while sharing stories and sentiments with those I love so dearly is something that will put a smile on my face, even during the toughest times.
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June 07, 2020 at 04:13PM
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A long weekend of tasty fellowship - Hot Springs Sentinel
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