Holidays are a time to spend with family. That way, you don't have to see them the rest of the year. Just kidding...or am I?

Since most of my family live a whopping 80 miles to the west of Binghamton, I don't get home often to connect with them. Although, my youngest brother now has a travel trailer in the campground I am at during the summer, so we'll get to hang a bit more.

When my dysfunctional family (and I mean that in a loving way) does gather, it's a good time. Since our first nephew was born we would get together during every birthday through their 18th year. After 30 years with seven nephews and nieces, the last one turned 18 this year.

It's kind of sad that the yearly tradition is over. Although at this year's Christmas get together, I suggested we turn the tables, and now have yearly birthday parties for my siblings and me, with cash gifts. Each of the seven nieces and nephews loudly proclaimed no. Ungrateful is what that is!

Another odd tradition started by me (I think), is throwing wadded up wrapping paper at each other after opening presents. It's a stupid thing to do, but we get a good laugh out of it anyway. Simple things for simple folks.

Any odd traditions you and your family go through at holiday time or otherwise?

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