As a child
growing up in West Virginia, there were three activities I could
always count on during our annual trek to the Spiker Family
Reunion each May. Mother would FINALLY allow me to remove my
flip-flops to go outside barefoot. I would catch crawdads from
the creek, even though they weren't good for much more than fish
bait or for scaring my sister. Daddy and I would compete to see
which of us could spot the largest Box Turtle crossing the road;
we were not impressed unless the turtle was wider than my hand.
As an adult now living in Florida, the three activities I
counted on as a child have lost some of their appeal. Although
I now wear flip-flops year-round, I never go outside barefoot in
Florida because even flip-flops can’t protect me from the fire
ants. Crawdads found in Florida are better for feeding my
family than for baiting fish, but I imagine they can still scare
my sister. The Gopher Tortoises I see crossing the roads in
Florida are not only wider than my hand, they’re wider than my
BUTT. And I think Daddy would be impressed with ANYTHING that
is wider than my butt.
I will be attending the upcoming reunion – my first in ten years
– and am happy to learn that there will be plenty of activities
to replace those of my childhood. Mike Spiker provided the
following tentative schedule of events.
SATURDAY – May 23
Subject to the weather conditions, (This means Paula does not
bring rain with her. If she does, we will still forgive her.)
we plan on having a campfire Saturday evening where conversation
is welcome. This is in conjunction with a grill-out of
hamburgers, etc. along with whatever people bring to eat. In
other words, we do not have a formal menu.
Camping is optional. John is bringing his new camper and Paula
is camping in Pennsboro at the bed and breakfast (which is her
type of camping.) Anyone else who has a camper can hook up to a
new electric setup we have. Boots and Coon are returning after
a year’s absence and are staying with us in the farm house.
We will be at the farm all day on Saturday so feel free to bring
your four-wheelers to explore the trail ride or to just stop by
to visit.
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SUNDAY – May 24
As chief chef, COL./DR. John Spiker decides when we start grilling the
chicken (usually around 9:30 -10:00 AM) and decides when it is done
(usually around 12:30 – 1:00 PM.) He needs assistance, so volunteers
should be on hand early in the day.
Before lunch is served, we will gather in front of the house for
opening comments, prayer, photos and anything else anyone wants to
bring up. I would like to have the family gather for the annual photo
BEFORE we eat so that we do not lose so many people to the river/pond,
to walks, etc. Again, this is dependent upon the weather.
Dr. Mark Spiker will conduct a Raffle for all who sign up. A few
lucky winners will receive camo hats, coupons to White Trail Café in
Pullman, or one of many other prizes.
The Auction, conducted by Dr. John Spiker, will follow the drawing (see
last month’s edition of the Spiker Gazette for ideas of items you can
contribute to this event.) All proceeds from the sale are donated
to the South Fork Cemetery Association.
Weather permitting, we want to have a Fishing Rodeo from 2:30 PM to
4:00 PM (time approximate) at the pond and river. Entry into the
contest is limited to those under 18 (Age limitation is due to Mark
wanting to enter.) Prizes may be awarded for the Smallest Fish, the
Largest Fish and the Most Fish. We WILL NEED VOLUNTEERS to help.
Bring your own bait or use some of the worms we will have on hand.
Parents/guardians can help their family members.
Some people will be riding four-wheelers on the trail ride and there
are traditional yard games if anyone wants to participate.
Bring a covered dish to accompany the grilled chicken. We have yet to
assign types of food but somehow we manage to get a good variety (Aunt
Dean is required to bring her noodles.)
We are open to any suggestions on how to improve this and future
years. Do not be bashful about giving us your comments because this
is for everyone. |
Submitted by Jean Spiker --
Grandson Alexander Douglas was born on May 11. He weighed seven
pounds and was 19 1/2" long. Mommy Rikki and baby are doing fine.
Submitted by Mike Spiker -- 
Submitted by Mark Spiker-- There will be no regular church services
at the South Fork Church on May 24. However, Sunday School is
scheduled for 10:00 AM.