Here we are, enjoying or enduring the front yard ritual of a family photo. These are the four that moved into the Palos Verdes house in 1955–this photo taken some time later. Left to right are Sue, Steve, me, and Lynnel (on tiptoes). Lori joined the family later (below).
It’s the weekend of the first anniversary of Dad’s death. That’s not something I necessarily intend to commemorate every year, but this year all the siblings are coming together for a reunion.
Actually we’ve done it every year for awhile, family members traveling in from their places around the state and country on the occasion of Mom’s birthday, or whatever date worked. As the folks entered their 90s the thought was always, “This could be the last time.” And finally it was. Our last gatherings were for Mom’s funeral, then Dad’s, four months apart.
Now what do we do to keep up our family-ness? Well, this year we’re having a long-weekend reunion.
And what will we do? We’re going to Disneyland!
Disneyland? It’s something my mother would have loved, and my father would have been glad to pay for. And so he is, not to mention the travel costs for those coming from distances (that’s four out of five, plus spouses). There was a bit of money left in Dad’s legacy account, and I’m sure he’d agree this to be a good use of it.
Speaking of legacy, someone asked me lately about mine, what I felt it was, or will be. I answered immediately, “My children.” Whatever is after that will be a distant second.
That’s how Dad felt too, especially in his later years. He kept up a family tree, with him and Mom at the top, punctually updating it with every new addition of grandchildren and greats. In time it went onto two pages, and smaller and smaller type. Sometimes he carried it around, giving a copy to anyone who would take it.
We thought it was humorous. But now none of us can locate any but outdated copies.
No matter. This weekend we will revel in some of these memories. Besides the day at Disneyland, we’ll take an evening catching up, look at some of Dad’s early family movies, and probably laugh at the progression of photos Mom always insisted we pose for on the front lawn.
We’ll also visit the Palos Verdes house Dad bought in 1955, where we all grew up, and where Mom and Dad both died. The place was afterward purchased by friends Jeff and Michelle Aleixo. They’ve made beautiful improvements and will host us for a tour and a time of remembering so much of what happened there.
Maybe we’ll even get picture out on the front lawn.
Our Lives Together
Its About Life
12:11 pm
Wishing you all a wonderful time together remembering…..your Mom, and your Dad and the precious times you all had together growing up. You have a rich heritage!
12:27 pm
Have a great time. I’d really love to see the updated photo.
Blessings!!
12:53 pm
I read all of your postings, Hyatt, and enjoy each very much.
12:58 pm
i hope you do take pictures on the front lawn and share them with us. I was the recipient of some of those family lists and am blessed by memories of your parents. Praying for your celebration this weekend. Enjoy the memories.
1:48 pm
Sue told me this event was coming…..such a great idea for some great legacies of Hy & Betty Moore! Have a wonderful time….and yes, I want a picture posted on your blog of all of you on the front lawn. (Has it really been a year since Ed celebrated your parents’ memory with you?)
2:36 pm
Love the picture, Hyatt. Like so many family memories, enduring in the moment, endearing as we look back. Have a great celebration,and don’t go spinning anyyone too fast on the Teacup Ride!
3:51 pm
Perfect. All of it.
6:15 pm
First to the Matterhorn !!
6:35 pm
‘Tis a blessing to gather with family members. In my family, I am at the top tier, so we have had several “cousin” reunions that are sadly going away as too many have left this old earth or are unable to make the trip.
10:10 am
You’re too cute, Sue.
10:11 am
Mr. Hyatt, you’re cute too.
10:36 am
Hyatt and all,
Have a wonderful day at Disneyland and the house in P.V. which was so great for your family. Had some great times there. Betty and Hyatt were a great couple and they were ready to party anytime.
You and your brother and sisters were blessed by God by giving you such wonderful parents.
Hugs all around,
Becky and Bill Jones
9:58 pm
Hyatt,
Enjoy making lasting memories with family and friends this weekend.
D.