48 is not just a number

I may only qualify by marriage, but on Saturday I was very proud to be a Voltz. My husband and his sister, Mary Ann, are two of FORTY-EIGHT first cousins. On Saturday we jammed as many of them as we could into one back yard in Clifton, Virginia (it was a big back yard), and held the first ever Voltz family reunion. It was an impressive event. Truly.

With so many cousins (keep in mind, they're all from Terry's dad's side. Mom was an only child), it would be impossible for anyone to keep track of them all. So not only were there many family members I hadn't met in the 12 years I've been with Terence, there were even family members Terry had never met. In fact, the gathering was hosted by Frank Voltz (and his delightful fiance, Anita), and although Frank was named after Terence's father, these two cousins had never met.

We had an unforgettable day. Lost time was made up. Legendary tales breathed new life. Matriarchs mingled. Progeny debuted. Spouses looked on in awe, fully aware we were witnessing an important event in the history of a great family.

Everyone immediately began thinking about the second annual locale. My mother doesn't know this yet (are you reading, mom?), but Terry volunteered her backyard. She may not be a Voltz, but my mom can't wait to meet you all!

Aunt Martha and Aunt Terry. Two of the original 10 siblings. Terry's dad was the oldest (thus nicknamed Sonny), and Aunt Terry (right) is the youngest.



We need a wide angle lens!


Voltzes make good looking children.


They say you can't choose your family, but we're all pretty happy with this assignment.