Planning
The last time most of us had gotten together was in March at Aunt Anne's funeral. We were lamenting the fact that the only time we seemed to see each other any more was at weddings and funerals, but lately it seemed there were far too many funerals. So we tossed out the idea of getting together in July in Seattle at Todd & Stephanie's house. I'm sure none of us were entirely sure it would happen, or how many of our fellow cousins, aunt's, uncles, brothers or sisters, parents would come, but it was a wonderful turnout.
Arriving
July 26, 2014: The invitations had gone out and one after another the RSVPs came it...people were coming! Saturday was a rather warm Seattle day (and a rather consistently warm Seattle summer) and folks began arriving at Todd and Steph Windemuth's house around noon. After quick hello's, introductions and dropping off potluck food in the house, everyone went outside to enjoy the sun. Potluck lunch was served outside under the canopy. Millie Windemuth made some traditional dishes holubtsi (cabbage rolls), borscht, and her own version of pampushky (prune bun's). Genie and Brian brought varenyky (perogies) and others brought a wide assortment of great foods to dine on.
After lunch the kids (total of 8 ranging in age from 3 to 11) spent the afternoon running and playing. Taylor Tutyko manned the laptop as the family tree was filled in. We talked, and laughed and reminisced. Pictures were taken of everyone to add to the family tree. In the evening, we celebrated Aunt Stella's upcoming 90th birthday with pizza, cake and ice-cream.
The following morning, many returned to the house to enjoy breakfast and one last chance to visit with family before heading out. It was so great to see everyone and take a few days out of our busy schedules to spend time with family. We hope this may turn into a regular occurrence.
Now where are we heading in 2015?
