The Generation Gaps

Disclaimer:  This is about our family reunion and there are a lot of pictures.  I made an effort to keep my sentimental nature in check.  No apologies—if it seems too cheesy, you can wait for the next blog post.

The good news is that we either don't have a weird relative or we're all a bit weird.  The Oregon contingent hosted our 2014 Schuman family reunion, signing on to house most of the second generation and their offspring.  The first (senior) generation headed for the nearby hotel. Although we thought we were three distinct generations, we didn't foresee the significance of an emerging blend—the transition generation.
First generation (seniors) age range 65 to 80
Second generation (adults) age range 38 to 55
Third generation (children) age range 4 to 11
Transition generation (neither adult nor child) age range 16 to 25
Fortunately, the transition generation, typical of resourceful people, found entertainment everywhere. On night two, hearing musical strains of 'Frozen' emanating from inside, the older generations discovered both younger generations belting out a singing performance together.  The age spread no longer seemed very obvious—in fact, it was negligible.

The spouses; Cousins; Table 1; 2nd cousins; Table 2

The first night was a casual (actually, all three nights were casual) coming together at Jason and Elizabeth's house.  Interestingly, the whole family is within the Western states.  Even though people arrived at different times by different modes of travel, almost everyone was there for the first night.  Margaritas and Mexican food rank as one of my favorites, so I was happy.  The transition generation even found some relief from the hero–worship from the adoring third generation at a pool table.

Over the three days, we consumed a bottle of Tequila for margaritas, 12 bottles of wine, 20 bottles of beer, 2 beer growlers.  Not horrifically too much, but then again, over half of the family were non-drinkers.  There was plenty of ice tea, lemonade and water for everyone, but the drinkers did admirably in holding up their end.

Intergenerational water play: Jump!; Uncle Erik, the pool toy;

The weather
The first week in August is typically over 100 degrees.  Thankfully, my worst nightmare (even more than a northwest downpour) didn't happen.  It was warm, but not so hot that the family didn't want to be outside and in the pool.  Besides. most of the out–of–towners were from California and couldn't understand the fuss. Oregon never looked so good–warm, clear, and oh so green.
Spoiler alert: Uhh, don't visit the Northwest November through April if you're looking for lovely weather.

Multnomah Falls;  Oregon Green

Activities 
I remember once hearing "Oregon is a great place to live, but you never want to visit." I understand, but heartily disagree, providing the visitor has a sense of adventure and humor.  Portland is picturesque, hip—and a bit weird; definitely worth a visit or two.  The second generation planned events that featured Oregon at it's best.  Visitors chose to go to Multnomah Falls/Columbia River Gorge, an art walk and the Farmers' Market in Lake Oswego, berry picking, Powell's bookstore, Portland Saturday market and downtown area, and Voodoo doughnuts.  They didn't even get to Mt. Hood, Washington Park, the Japanese garden, the Chinese garden, and the wine country.  Oh well...next time.

Art walk; berry picking; Bill; Nature hike; Shooting pool

Not to miss out, Skeeter and I joined some others on the docent–guided art walk/Farmers' Market because we could.  She also helped me participate more effectively the second night–scooting around to chat with family members.   I just parked myself at a table with a glass of wine on the first and third nights.  It worked out.

Tammy & Earl's family; the grandchildren; Sarah & Heidi

When Elizabeth suggested a professional photographer, I thought back on all the important events that were missing good pictures.  Phone cameras are great these days, but it's so easy to get distracted and forget.  I have to say, given the significance of the event, having a photographer was one of the better decisions.

So, the reunion is over, the torch has been passed, and we'll see what happens next time.

The Schuman Village

The lesson: For every generation, there is some sort of gap.  It is so not an issue for this tribe.