We’re a pretty family-centric group of people here in Nebraska, and we’re always looking forward to the next family get-together. Inevitably, though, someone will have to leave the gathering at some point to go home. It’s not a short or easy process; we have a kind of goodbye ritual that we go through every time. How many of these do you recognize in your own family?

1. The "Alright, I guess we should get out of your hair" stage.
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It's getting dark, or maybe the kids are getting cranky - either way, you know you've got to start wrapping it up and making your way toward the car.
2. But wait - you can't leave without some of these leftovers!
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No matter how many people show up or how hungry they are, there are always leftovers. Don't even fight it, just take your share.
3. The first round of hugs.
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Don't leave anyone out! These hugs have to last until the next time you get together with the family.
4. Planning out the route home.
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Typically, the older people of the family will give some advice - welcome or not - on the best way to get home. Remember there's construction on the highway!
5. Relating one or more stories of accidents that happened nearby recently.
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Just to make sure the people who are leaving are extra careful driving home, they'll be treated to several cautionary stories. You know, Mrs. So-and-So hit a deer just up the road last week so you'd better keep an eye out!

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6. Hand on the doorknob, inching out slowly.
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You really need to get going, but there are still so many things you forgot to talk about! This seems like the perfect time to try to fit them all in.
7. Making plans for the next meetup.
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You probably already planned to come over for the next birthday or holiday, but just to be sure, you'll discuss the details with the family as you make your way to the door.
8. Everyone walks to the car together to keep talking.
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You're walking to the car but your conversation isn't over, so it only makes sense that the other person follows along.
9. Another round of hugs.
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Your hugs from earlier have worn off already. It's time to refresh them!
10. Waving goodbye from the car.
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You're finally in the car and backing down the driveway. The people who are staying behind shout out some last-minute reminders to drive carefully and to call when you get home.

This whole ritual may make it a long process to leave and get on your way, but we wouldn’t change it – or our other little family rituals – for anything.

How many of these can you relate to? Is your family’s ritual any different? Put in your two cents in the comments!

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