journeys-page

Saturday, July 1st, was the day for our 5th ‘DeMary’ family picnic which started in 2011. It has been held at Monica & Randy and Mark & Brenda’s (my children’s) Calvin, which is east of Centura School and north and east along the Loup River. My children and a niece started planning it in May. Save The Date cards were sent, and replies were due back in June. Meat, potatoes, rolls, and paper products would be furnished. Everyone else had a choice of an item to bring. I was getting excited around the middle of June because I don’t see much of the family often. Out of eleven children, only four of us are living. I and three brothers, so I was hoping they would come. My twin Max and brother Rick have health issues, so would not be coming. It would be my brother Paul and I. As time got closer, people started responding, and so we had a count of 87. We were excited, but in the last week of June, it rained several days, so we were concerned. The kids went to the cabin on Friday to get things ready. Saturday morning came, and it was a little cloudy, so we hoped for the best. Arriving there at 2:00 was a beautiful sight, and felt peaceful. A cool breeze was blowing, tents were set up, picnic tables and chairs were plentiful. I could just feel God’s presence, and I was thankful. Seventy-five family members showed. The day was filled with talk and laughter, good food, fun games, kids wading in the river and canoeing, and many pictures! When God brought my parents together 96 years ago, they would never have imagined the legacy that grew out of their love: 33 grand, 58 great, and 111 great-great-grandchildren. We are so blessed. -Maxine White