« Clare's Pool Party | Main | The Important Thing »
June 08, 2005
Great Granpda's Birthday
The Gingerich family gathered at Hope Village to sing a happy birthday to Dad. I couldn't really join in the singing, having lost my voice from a cold. For those of you unfamiliar with a family sing I will try to describe. We all sit in a big circled armed with 2 hymnals, the old red book and the new blue book. Anyone may call out a hymn number, but you have to be a loud and quick. Someone blows a note on the pitch pipe and then we burst into four part harmony. The sound is amazing. Often Tom G., or lately it has been Julian, try to adjust the tempo. There are certain songs that are sung in a peculiar way -- too loud, too fast, slurred notes, very serious -- because they hold a special meaning or memory to the family.
We sang for over an hour. Emma and Maren danced to the music in the middle of the group, even though traditionally Mennonites don't dance. Even Great Grandpa gave them a thumbs up. Harrison, having learned to read words and music, attempted a few songs. He also played Joyful, Joyful, on the piano for Great Grandpa. A great time was had by all.
Posted by jennifer at June 8, 2005 10:12 AM
Comments
good description, Jenn- the only thing that got missed is the fact that Great Grandpa said several times, "those girls are dancing like in the old testament..." and the incredible thing was that he said it with such pride and joy on his face. i think he really enjoyed that evening. and it's so nice to see the kids having fun around him again after being slightly scared for awhile there... thanks for the updates!
Posted by: jennifer lyn at June 16, 2005 09:15 PM