Thursday, December 11, 2008

17 The Grandchildren

July 30th, 1988 marked the beginning of the final generation of the Basile Family with the birth of my older brother Tim. The grandchildren that came to follow were Meghan, myself, Brendan, Teddy, and Andy. Much like Joe and Jan, the parents’ generation were fortunate enough to send all of their children to private middle and junior high schools. Another aspect that followed through the generations was the Baptism and practice of Catholicism by each of the grandchildren. This example shows how certain family values are handed down through generations.
There remains a strong connection to Christian Brothers Academy in the academic careers of the grandchildren. Tim and myself have already graduated from the academy while Brendan and Teddy currently attend. Andy is attending St. Pius X school where all of the other nephews also graduated from. Meghan went to Christ the King Junior High School and then Colonie Central High school. She is currently attending the State University of New York at Oneonta. Tim is currently attending Manhattan College and I am attending St. John Fisher College. Again, a strong private and religious influence remains in the selection of schools for both generations.
All three generations of the Basiles get together for dinners at Joe and Jan’s house a couple times a month. All of the grand parents and parents eat at the dining room while the children eat at the kitchen table. Having so many family members makes it harder to have everyone in attendance at these events. The only day throughout the year when all of the Basiles are under one roof are at the Christmas dinner. The Christmas dinner is the only mandatory family function in the Basile family.

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