Every year the ladies in my family get together for a little retreat. We meet up in the same place every year to catch up with one another and share our burdens. This whole event started back when my Mom first got sick with Breast Cancer many years ago. We began as a way to heal each other around such a difficult time. This gathering has continued on through the years. I know I've blogged about in before but I'm not sure if I've given the history.
I've missed a few years since I went last. My attendance has been a little hit and miss over the years. It was really hard when my Mom passed to continue to go without her there. I'd usually pop in for a little day visit and leave since it was only 30 minutes away from home. I eventually began to go more and stay for longer. It finally turned into the retreat it is today for me. It was a very emotional struggle for me to attend some years. Since moving to WA it is a lot of planning and effort to go but helps me stay connect to my roots. The last time I went, a couple of years ago, I had a bit of a blow out with my Grandmother about my Mom. It was a very hard time and lots of tears were shed during that trip. I have since learned so much about myself and done a ton of healing. I have harbored no ill will towards anyone but haven't been back since. This year was the year that I came back to the group.
This year is also a big year for my Dad as he will be turning the big 70!!! He didn't want a party or anything fancy just a little time from his kids. I decided to make a trip of this. So in the beginning of November I got myself on a plane and went home to CA. I enjoyed several days with my Dad. He has since said I wore him out. I enjoyed just spending time with him and doing things he wanted to do. It made me miss home a lot but it was nice to have that time. I even got him to dig up old photos of him as a kid and talk about my family history with him. I came home with more stuff to share with my kids so they don't forget the past.
My Aunt Debbie came in to go out to dinner with my family. It was fun to have her with us. She took me on to the retreat for the last couple of days of my trip. Our numbers have changed since that first gathering. We've lost a few and gained a few. This was a totally different vibe then we've had in the past. Our numbers seem to be getting smaller but we are still so connected. This was all about sisterhood and being together. Had fun shopping with these ladies. That is saying a lot since shopping really isn't my thing. It was nice to take a break from my daily duties and be with family like me. I had a great time this year.
As our retreat ended Debbie brought out a pearled candle. They started this tradition just recently to light the candle for those that we've lost and maybe say a few words. We had just checked out of the cottage and were gathering for the lighting. Debbie had just lite the candle and placed it on the table. We were just gathering together when the phone rang. My other Aunt got the dreaded call that my Grandmother had just passed. Emotions began to fly as you can imagine. It was a difficult way to end our time together as it marked a huge loss to our family. It is amazing what these women can do in my family. We came together for each other the best we could as we said our goodbyes so that my Aunts could go home to make plans. I'm not sure I have the words to express my feelings at the close. Family is so important and I cherish the moments I get to spend with them.
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