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Lewis Edward and Nina Hughes Daniel |
Seems that as the aging process takes hold, one is reminded of the value of past experiences and the importance of family. Early in the year Daniel Family members gathered for a funeral. Another one of my father's six siblings had passed away. We noted that we never saw each other except for solemn occasions and decided to do something about it. On October 11, 2015, the two remaining Daniel siblings and 118 of the Daniel children, grandchildren and great grandchildren gathered in Zachary, Louisiana. There would be food, fellowship and singing. The Daniels love to sing! Childhood memories include many sessions of gathering around a piano and belting out carols at Christmas. Many of the cousins could and would play musical instruments. It was noted that our grandfather, Ed, was singing a hymn on his deathbed. That was the last memory shared of his life.
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Seated L to R: Norris and Maxwell Standing L to R: Joyce, Edwin, Audrey, Jackie & Margaret |
The planning began in April. The gym of my church was reserved. A Facebook page was begun. Family names and contact information were collected via email and messages. A letter was composed and the invitations went out in mid July. Each of the 21 first cousins, their spouses and their children and grandchildren were invited.
As the date got closer many people became involved. Cousin Steve would cook for us. He is a minister and often cooks large quantities of barbecue for church events and he offered his expertise for our event. Cousin Melanie offered her talents as mistress of ceremonies, song parody writer, photo booth creator and general "counsel" along the way. Others encouraged their kids to register and to attend.
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Wayne and Bootsie greeted guests |
As each family arrived and the name tags were claimed, the feeling of excitement grew. The names of many we never had met were paired with faces and that created a lot of joy.
We would enjoy a festive meal centered around pulled pork, cajun sausages and hot dogs for the children (42 of whom were in attendance). Each person brought a side dish. We filled 6 eight foot long tables with food. Food would be a focal point of our celebration. We found out that we are great cooks. Steve and wife, Dianne, assisted by Eric and Phillip presided over the kitchen and serving.
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Chef Steve |
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Blessing the food and family |
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Family singing parodies |
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Creative Melanie |


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First Cousins (missing Rossie, Chris and Suzie) |
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Redheads Rule |
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Margaret Ann-Youngest Daniel Sibling |
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Jackie with Robin |
It would be difficult to write about everything that occurred in our short time together.
Be assured there were smiles, hugs, laughter and genuine joy during the afternoon. Thanks to every single person who attended. Ed and Nina would have been very proud.
Here's the recipe for Frances Daniel Smith's Cornbread Salad that was requested by so many:
1 cup diced onion, yellow or green
1 cup diced green bell pepper
3 fresh tomatoes diced
1 quart mayonnaise
Toss all ingredients together. Top with fresh crisp crumbled bacon (or bacon bits). Chill before serving.
Optional: add browned ground cooked sausage, boiled eggs, olives, celery
NOTE: members of the Facebook page, Daniel Family, can view hundreds more pictures taken on the day of the reunion.
NOTE: members of the Facebook page, Daniel Family, can view hundreds more pictures taken on the day of the reunion.