We miss the way it used to be

Today was the annual pool party at my aunt's house.  We were all there, along with my mom, grandma, aunt, uncle, a cousin, his wife, and his two children.  My sister wasn't there, and an entire branch of the family wasn't there...this is the family that tends to be full of drama.  It was a nice visit though, and I always enjoy visiting with my cousin's wife.

On the way home though, Andrew and I were commenting on how we miss the way it used to be.  When all the kids were little, there would be seven of them in the pool, and a few adults as well.  The kids would play for hours and hours in the pool, and it would often be 8:00 or so before we would venture home.  My Dad always came down, and we have great pictures from over the years.

Now, a lot of the kids might have jobs or plans, and of course there are certain relatives not speaking to certain relatives so you just never know.  My dad is gone, my sister doesn't like coming down, and we were all out the door by 6:00 or so.  It's just not the same.  It feels more like everyone is just there because they feel like they have to be, and you are never sure what you can say to whom or what might set someone off.  We really miss the fun that we used to have, although we are grateful for family.