Every-Other-Annual Clawson Family reunion was held in my backyard this year. Well, my "hometown" backyard. Actually just down the street from where we had our wedding reception. Let's use quick stats to sum up this awesome week:
Location: Cornet Bay, at Deception Pass State park. wonderful scenery, perfectly sized gathering hall for everyone. An economy kitchen and dishwasher to boot- finally a perfect food making spot for our crew. The only drawback is the cabins. A bit dull, dark, damp, musty... okay I also think my mom gave her kids the worst ones, the rest of the family seemed to be okay. The teens loved being together in one big bunk house. And at least we all got our own place!
In Attendence: 12 adults, 6 "marrieds" with 2 babies, and 40(ish) single cousins ages 6-24. Most of which are teenagers these days.
Old traditions:
Talent show- Eight Hilarious lip synches to some oldies songs. Already love watching the video. Go fam. Especially because the choreography and costumes were all made up the morning of. It was so good I vote we do a flash mob next year. I'm already planning it.
Dance party- older teenagers who knew some moves, and we actually had space to boogie. definite bonus.
Glow sticks- used at dance party. Spectular fun.
Bu's Butique- Gabriel liked the shelves full of candy right at his level. I had quite a few girls helping me manage the store this year. Our business seems to be growing! In case you didn't know, the items from Grandma Bu's store come from Oriental Trading or the Dollar Store, and the Currency used in the store this year was sticks. (a stick the length of Bronwen's hand to be exact).
Everyone arriving and departing at different times four days before and four days after the official reunion dates. Always a party. My mom is amazing for keeping track of all this.
Crafting: we made sailboats out of sticks, driftwood, triangles cut out of muslin, a drill and bit of hot glue. They are beautiful and unique! 
Family History- fun and games style. This year we focused on getting to know the Aunts and Uncles via games like Operation, Jeopardy, and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.
New Traditions
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| Gabriel's first kayak ride. Thanks Uncle Michael! |
Hike to Deception pass bridge at sunset
Exploring tide pools at Rosario (have you ever done with 50 people? It's not easy. Good thing there is plenty of room.) Gabe was a trooper in the Boba wrap. 
Ferry ride to Friday Harbor! We saw seals in the harbor, loved the lavender shop, and were treated to an ice cream by the generous Bu. Actually, after she paid for us all the ice cream shop gave us the last one free because we bought so many! Gabe did great in the jogging stroller the whole time. 
Salmon bake. YUM!
Sailing! My Dad rented a big boat and took 2 crews out each day. Heavenly bliss! The only thing better than sailing is sailing with your family! 
Best quote:
"Which is better, EFY or Family reunion?"- me
"Family reunion hands down!"- 16 year old anonymous male cousin
I started a "quote board" (ya know, like your college days) this year, which turned into 3 quote boards.... They are still hanging up at Grandma Bu's as I write.
Others I can remember at the moment:
"This place is beautiful and I haven't left the airport!"
"Did you just pick a living thing off the ground?!" "yeah"
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