Our Family Reunion.

October 19th will always be more than just a date to us — it’s the day our beautiful mother, Rebecca Marie Neff, came into the world in 1967. Though she left us far too soon in 2014, her spirit, her love, and the lessons she left behind are woven into the fabric of our lives.

While time has done its best to soften the edges of that grief, her absence is still felt deeply. Losing a parent always leaves a hole, but more than that, it shifts the ground beneath you — it changes the way you see life, love, and family. And for us — five siblings trying to navigate adulthood, parenthood, and everything in between — it became clear that being together would be our way forward.

A Family Tradition

So now, every year around Mom’s birthday, we make it a point to come together. Me, my two brothers, and two sisters — plus our families, which seem to keep multiplying. Nieces, nephews, in-laws, babies... it’s loud, chaotic, and beautiful. We don’t always have a fancy plan. We just know we’re going to gather — to eat, laugh, share stories, and remember.

This year, we all made our way to Robert’s house in Rockwell. Since we all live a good distance from each other, we take turns hosting our gatherings — each time in a different place, but always with the same love and purpose. Unfortunately, our oldest brother Shayne and his family couldn’t make it this time around, and not having them there definitely left a gap. It didn’t feel quite the same without his laugh, his presence, and the easy way he always brings everyone together. We missed him deeply, but even with one piece of our circle missing, we still found ways to celebrate and connect — the way Mom would have wanted us to.

And honestly? It was a good weekend. A really good one.

Kickball Shenanigans

We kicked things off the first night with a kickball game that had everyone — grownups and kids — out on the field like it was recess. It was hilarious. Someone pulled a muscle, someone else tried to cheat, and there was a lot of laughing, yelling, and light trash talk (you know, sibling stuff). The game went on until the daylight started to fade, and before we knew it, it was too dark to see the ball anymore. None of us were ready to quit — but the night sky finally made the call for us.

The next day, we picked up right where we left off, this time with a baseball game. Because apparently, we weren’t done competing just yet. The fun wasn’t in the score — it was in the fact that we were all out there together, moving, laughing, living.

The Joy of Cousins

The best part, as always, was the kids. Our kids get along like they’ve known each other forever, even if they only see each other a few times a year. They played all day — from morning until the sun started to dip behind the trees. No drama, no boredom, just pure cousin energy. Watching them run, laugh, and make memories took me back to our own childhood — to a time when Mom was still here, and the world felt simple. It reminded me how lucky we are to give them that — roots, memories, connection.

The Lesson of Time

We’ve learned, the hard way, just how short life can be. People assume they’ll always have more time — more chances to visit, more holidays together, more “someday” plans. But sometimes that time runs out, and the only thing left is what you made of it.

So now, we don’t wait. We don’t put things off. We make the time. We make the call. We show up — even if it’s messy, even if it’s hard, even if someone’s missing.

This isn’t just about Mom anymore. It’s about us. It’s about keeping each other close. It’s about raising our kids to know where they come from. It’s about building a family that sticks — even when life gets complicated.

Cherishing the Moments

So here’s to another October. Another birthday we don’t get to celebrate with her in person. Another reminder that love shows up — not in grand gestures, but in small, meaningful moments spent together.

And as the weekend came to an end and the cars started to pull out of the driveway, that familiar ache settled in — the one that comes when you wish time would slow down just a little longer. Leaving is always the hardest part. There’s laughter still echoing, hugs that linger, and that quiet, heavy feeling that comes from saying goodbye. But we carry each other in our hearts until the next time — and already, we’re counting down the days until we’re together again.

The Power of Togetherness

In this whirlwind of life, it’s easy to forget what truly matters. We often get caught up in the chaos of daily routines, the never-ending to-do lists, and the pressures of perfection. But moments like these remind us that connection is what fuels our souls.

When we gather, we’re not just sharing meals or playing games; we’re weaving a tapestry of love and support. Each laugh, each shared story, and even the occasional argument adds a thread to our family fabric. It’s a beautiful mess, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

Looking Forward

As we look ahead, I can’t help but feel excited about the future. Yes, there will be challenges. Yes, there will be changes. But if this weekend taught me anything, it’s that we’re stronger together. We’ll continue to create memories, celebrate milestones, and honor Mom’s legacy.

So, here’s to more gatherings, more laughter, and more love. Let’s keep the spirit of togetherness alive, one kickball game at a time. Because in the end, it’s not about the perfect moments; it’s about the moments we make perfect together.

And who knows? Maybe next time, we’ll even let Shayne win a game or two. (Just kidding, Shayne. You know we love you!)