I have been an avid reader of your magazine for a number of years, and have most enjoyed family-themed stories. At this time, I would like to share with you and your readers a family story of my own. On the weekend of August 12-14, 2011, the family of the late Thomas and Priscilla Byrne gathered for a family reunion in Irishtown, N.L. Of the 145 family members, 122 were able to attend at least some of the three-day celebrations. They came from across Canada to take part in this joyous occasion. The 12 siblings were joined by spouses, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and great-great-grandchildren. It was a time for getting reacquainted for many, and for some of the younger cousins, it was the first time they had met. For the occasion, the eldest of the family, Kay Musseau, created a memory quilt depicting pictures of our mother and father and all 12 children. She sold tickets on the quilt over the course of the weekend, and was successful in raising $500, which was donated to the local branch of the Canadian Cancer Society in memory of our mother and father. It was quite fitting that the quilt was won by Ken, the baby of the family. All who attended the reunion had a wonderful time, and walked away with lots of good memories to cherish. Many who only knew of one another are now friends, and will continue to stay in touch for years to come.

Sincerely,
Geraldine (Byrne) Wheeler
Summerside, NL

Pictured above: (Back Row) Kay, Marie, Rita, Bud, Bernice and Betty, (Front Row) Ken, Bill, Mary, Gerldine, Tony and Margaret, with family-themed quilt.
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