Unforgettable Family Traditions That Might Surprise You

Every family has its share of memorable and often embarrassing traditions that bring a humorous twist to the holiday season or household routines. Two such stories, shared in the context of Thanksgiving and another involving a daring lifestyle choice, might surprise those hearing about them for the first time. Let's delve into these stories and explore the unexpected twists and turns in these family practices.

Thrive and Survive with the Le Sueur Sweet Peas

There's a tradition in our home that is both a source of amusement and, let's face it, much much more joy. Every Thanksgiving, my mother would always serve canned Le Sueur sweet peas. These peas were an acquired taste for all of us, and my dad detested them just as much as I did. The result: most of the peas would garner a lot of unwanted attention and, ultimately, a lot of unwanted waste.

The logic was simple—since nobody wanted any of the peas, we didn't have to eat them. But, you guessed it, every year, it became a tradition for me to buy a can of these peas, knowing full well that they would just gather dust on the table. And, for the record, I didn't open that can for 20 whole years!

This tradition hadn't veered off its course until a few years ago when we noticed the can was bulging and rusting. Finally, the day came when we had to say good-bye to the can and all its silent memories.

A Late-Blooming Revelation: The Swinging Tradition

My mother, in what could be considered a late-blooming moment of sharing, revealed a part of our family's history that had gone unspoken for many years. She shared that she and my late father had joined the world of swingers for quite some time, prior to the end of his life. The admission was a curious mix of shock and surprise. Her words, "Imagine all the fun you're missing," brought a mix of laughter and, for me, a sense of bemusement. These revelations were unexpected, to say the least, and certainly part of the lore surrounding our family history.

While the subject matter is sensitive, my mother's confession added a layer of depth to our family narrative. It turns out that family memories can sometimes surprise us, and they often come in unexpected packages, even those that might not be the most pleasant.

Embracing the Unexpected

These stories serve as reminders that family traditions, no matter how unusual or surprising, can bring us closer together and create lasting memories. Whether it's a quirky dish that no one wants to eat or a hidden lifestyle that family members keep to themselves, these traditions become a part of what makes our families unique.

So, the next time you have a family gathering or holiday, don't be surprised if you hear something surprising about your family's past. Embrace the unexpected, and remember, it's the little things that can make the biggest impact on our lives.