Sadly, the family reunion weekend is over. There were so many people to see, so much food to eat, and music to play. It was time to go home long before I was ready. I’d like to thank everyone that volunteered their time, their music, their cooking, their homes and their love so that we could all get together and have a great time. What a great time we had. Playing music in my parent’s (Larry and Samie Craddock) basement. Razzing each other as we played cards at Joe and Debbie’s house. Visiting with loved ones at the Grady County Fairgrounds in Chickasha. I’m sad it is over.
I know that I had a wonderful time, even if I was forced to wear a Pink shirt the entire time. Playing music with my high school band mates was a personal highlight. We may all have gained a hundred pounds since then but let me tell you, we still rocked like no time had passed.
The pitch tournament was a blast, despite the fact that I nearly ruined everything by accidentally bringing pinochle cards. I’m sure I won’t live that down anytime soon. Lynne tried to get a picture of me with one of those decks of cards. I’m curious to see if she has the nerve to post that picture online, ha. I didn’t fare so well in the tournament. I went 3 and 3. Joe Craddock and Rodney Craddock both won all 6 games. The trophy came down to points of which Uncle Joe had 3 more.
On Sunday, we all headed to Chickasha to the family reunion. As I believe I have mentioned before the reunion has been held every year for over 60 years. I had a great time talking to family I hadn’t met before as well as those that I hadn’t seen in a long time. Come to think of it, I also enjoyed the company of those who I see all the time. Most everyone brought a dish and the food was excellent. After we ate Bob Craddock got on stage and filled us all in on our shared heritage. You can count on me posting those stories here in the next few weeks. Before it was time to go home, several of us got up and picked at the guitar and sang a few songs. For me the reunion can’t be over until I hear a duet from Dan and BJ Craddock.
I think we all had a great time and I’m already looking forward to next year. Aunt Ada and Aunt Debbie have managed to reserve a pavilion at Fort Cobb lake next year which we will either use for the Pitch tournament or the family reunion depending on how a few things work out.
I hope the rest of you had as good of a time as I did. Be sure to comment below and tell us your favorite moment of the reunion weekend. I’d really appreciate hearing from you.
My personal highlight was the band and the shirts as well.
My sentiments exactly! I’ve thoroughly enjoyed all the family. Now I’m looking forward to an RV trip to Yellowstone with Samie, Erik, Linda, Drew, Ethan and Dylan.
Oh and thanks Erik for an excellent job of keeping us informed.
I know in football the home field advantage is usually worth at least 3 points. Look out next year family
i had so much fun and the memories of family will get me through until the next time i can get home. Erik, I know I will post the picture — after all you were only telling me there is only “one” way to play pitch — with pinochle cards. lol
haha yeah that is exactly what I was thinking
Actually I figured that I was being trapped and that I would soon find myself an unwilling participant in a picture. I figured if that was going to happen I could display my dissenting position.
It WAS a very enjoyable weekend.. I loved sitting up talking with my two oldest brothers and laughing about the old times with all my family members.. I really do think that is what it is ALL about… just being together! Thank you so much for putting it all together. I had such a great time with all of you and watching our children play together… I love you all!