"Have you thought about writing your family history, but found yourself stuck from the start? Writing a family narrative can be a daunting task, but Karen Jones Gowen found a way to bring her mother's story to life." (Homespun Magazine)

Friday, April 8, 2011

G is for Gowen Fam

We are the Gowens. We are 12 strong, without counting son and daughter-in-laws and grandchildren. There are my husband and me, eight sons and two daughters. If we were in politics and had money, we'd be the Kennedys. If we were musical and ambitious, we'd be the Osmonds.

My semi-autobiographical novel, Uncut Diamonds, is about the beginning of our family-- it begins with Marcie and Shawn McGill and their four young children. By the time the novel ends, they have six. In House of Diamonds, due out this year, the McGills have seven. My count could be wrong, I cut down the number of children the McGills have because I didn't want the books to just be Marcie always pregnant. But yeah, my husband and me have created a dynasty. The Gowens are known far and wide. I can't believe Oprah hasn't called yet. I can't even count how many people have said to me, "I wish I were a Gowen." Excuse my bragging but it is a G day and so I'm entitled.

This is one of my favorite photos of a few of the Gowen boys. No daughters are pictured, and two boys are missing, as one was in Air Force basic training and another in South Africa on a mission. So it's me and 6 of my boys. I love this picture, it gives an informal glimpse into who we are. It shows that the Gowens are a force to be reckoned with. Don't mess with me cuz I got a bunch of six foot sons. And one's a Marine.

7 comments:

  1. Yay for the GOWENs!!! Awwww wow - you have such lovely strapping young lads there!! Fantastic pic!!! No-one messes with your boys and gals cos you're amazonian Xena mum!!! Yay!

    Take care
    x

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  2. Definitely a force to be reckoned with. I have three sons and one daughter. Wished for more but alas it was not to be. Love your family photo. Such a proud Mam!

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  3. Great picture! You have a glorious family. (There's another G-word for you.) :)

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  4. I'm sure thankful I was asked to join the Gowens! Nice subject for the letter "G".

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  5. What a wonderful photo! I'm going to read Uncut Diamonds, and House of Diamonds when it comes out. I love family stories. Great post. :)

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  6. Julie, I'm thinking I might do a post or two about which kids inspired which characters when House of Diamonds comes out. And I appreciate your interest!

    Erin, You make us even better! I am proud to share my cookie recipe with you :)

    Linda G., ooo I should have titled this post the Glorious Gowens! Except we never refer to ourselves like that so it would be weird LOL. We call ourselves the Fam. Or the Gowens.

    Ann, In today's world 4 is a big family. I felt like such a freak with 5 and up. But glad I endured the stares and the rude comments at the time.

    Old Kitty, HAHA LOL, love your comment!

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  7. Hi Karen .. slightly larger than your parents family .. this is a wonderful picture - and I'm delighted to see your family .. family - you sure do have them! Wonderful Erin comments on your blog too - mind you she has a vested interest.

    Moving house should be easy - with that lot around ... absolutely loved this - cheers to you all .. Hilary

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I don't post very often, but if you leave a comment I'll know someone is out there reading. And then I will post more! Bwa ha ha!