THE 2010 ANNUAL
HAGAN FAMILY REUNION
This Reunion had everything we promised and more:
laughter, fun, sharing, tears, suffering, education, recycling.
They came one by one, two by two and in every configuration you
can imagine. We laughed as they came wearing smiles from here to
Ireland, decked out in their green and carrying great pots of food.
Good food. No. GREAT food. We laughed because we could see we
were going to have a great day. There were no slackers at this
shindig!
We stuffed ourselves on many Irish favorites such as corned beef
and cabbage, Irish stew, fresh corn on the cob, salads of every variety,
homemade corn bread, green tea, etc, etc, and more calories than
we need to mention. Of course, the dessert tables 'runnethed' ran
over with every imaginable treat: cakes, pies, delights of all description.
Many decorated in green decor and shamrocks. After all of this,
we suffered briefly but soon decided it was worth the pounds pain.
Next it was on to sharing what had been going on with everyone.
Then we viewed three memorable videos that took us back a step
and jogged our memories of times past as well as missed loved ones.
It also reminded us of why we gather each year. To celebrate family.
To see where we have been, for if we do not know where we come
from, how can we possibly know where we are going?
We sang Happy Birthday with vigor as we congratulated Marjorie
for reaching a milestone 90 years old. This accomplishment makes
her the first sibling to achieve such longevity. It's great to be Queen!
(Tom also was honored with song as he turned 93 the following day.)
Next we decided since there are only five remaining siblings (and all
females, I might add) that we needed to sing Happy Birthday to the
others since they cannot help their birthdays are not in sync with the
Family Reunion dates. We tuned up again and sang off-key loudly
and with great clapping of hands and then each was presented a
memory pillow, replete with recycled images of themselves taken
from 'old' pictures and appropriate embellishments. What fun!
We were educated briefly (rather like today's schools) about the
great Potato Famine of Ireland and how it caused a great influx
of Irish emigrants into Ellis Island and then later into a larger
expanse of the United States. This is more than likely how and
why our ancestors came to this country. To continue our
education we viewed many posters, displayed on the walls of
the dining area, which pointed out some of the high points of
Ireland. Next, we explored our Hagan Coat of Arms and then
Dave E. took the floor to share his findings of the meaning of
the symbols on the COA. You know, it soon became very apparent
he had really done his homework. Go Dave! (but keep this info
in the family, please.)
Just before the day ended, we spotted an awesome rainbow off in
the distance and upon closer inspection right at the bottom of the
bow sat the proverbial pot of gold. It was filled to the brim with
gold and coins. We passed it around and it was suggested we each
draw out a remembrance to take home. Well, miracle of miracles,
several of the clan drew out coins marked with a magic sign that
turned into a prize. What a great finish to a fun-filled time for all.
And "yes", there was plenty of BLARNEY spread around!
PARTING THOUGHTS and CREDITS:
Due to remodeling of the Church we have been using for our gatherings,
we had a change of venue for this Reunion and it received a great round
of compliments. This new location may be viewed for more upcoming
affairs. It offered a lot of extra benefits with the hall.
Carol deserves a great big gold star (she's a 'just retired' elementary
teacher and you know how they love gold stars) for all of her support,
work and door prizes, etc. Personally, I hope she decides to be a
Team Regular.
Kathy H. did a fantastic job as Greeter/Sign-in Administrator. No one
slipped past her. She was great at getting all of the slips filled out. We
can count on her to be back.
Christopher was Video Projection Technician. He added a new and
enjoyable element to the day. He is a definite for next time.
Family pictures were handled by Tonya who always does a SUPER
job. She comes equipped to get things done. We will share some
pictures very soon so you can see what you missed if you didn't
make it this year.
Actually, this year saw so many willing to help out that it would only
be fair to say, THANK YOU, one and all for a great day. It was so
much fun that we will meet again, next year. The last Saturday
of July. (July 30, 2011) Mark your calendars and we'll see you there.
Betty, Pat and Team
A THOUGHT TO SHARE:
We are greatly saddened that Justine left this earthly plain before she
had a chance to join us in this years Reunion. She had recently expressed
she was looking forward to being there. Of course, our Heavenly Father
knows what is best for us and elevated her to a higher seat before our
family gathering. In our hearts we believe she looked down and smiled
and said, 'Here I am'.
Justine: a beautiful lady who was always wearing a beautiful smile.
PLEASE DON'T FORGET TO SIGN
The Hagan Family Album
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