Clue #1

A family gathers in June, a tradition that began with a mother, a widow, a grandmother, a woman celebrating the safe return of her four sons from World War II. A woman everyone called “Mom.” Even the townspeople. 
The year was 1948. 
Seventy-five years later the family gathers in June, as it has every year save two—during the pandemic. This year’s reunion is in Holland, MI, home of the last of “Mom’s” children. A twin. Jane. A mother. A grandmother. A widow. A woman the family calls “Exceptional Aunt Jane.” 
For the reunion, Mother and daughter design a scavenger hunt to celebrate benches—all benches—but especially their favorites. Sixteen benches. Sixteen clues. Two and a half hours. Seven teams. All members must be photographed on the correct bench. Points awarded based on difficulty, accuracy, creativity. One team wins for most points scored. The other for submitting the most creative photograph.  
A family vote. 

The most creative goes to a team’s response to Clue #1.  
Clue #1: Known as the “Breakfast Bench” for its close proximity to a bakery and perfect view overlooking Lake Macatawa near a statue of immigrants. 
Team members used their bodies to spell the family name, Laflin, alongside the statue of immigrants. A gentle reminder. Most families immigrated to this country from another.  
Ours included. Happy Independence Day!