I actually did write other blog entries this week, but they remain in the unpublished file. They pretty much lament the fact that Ashley is growing up, I’m not getting any younger, and pretty soon no one will need me anymore. Blah.
It’s a good thing Marcus planned a Memorial Day outing, to give me some perspective.
First we went to Wyuka. They have a service at 9:00am every Memorial Day. A parade, complete with bag-pipes, marches through the cemetery to start things off. Those bag-pipes always get to me.
We say the Pledge of Allegiance, someone sings “The Star-Spangled Banner,” and there is always a speaker. The speaker is usually a veteran, and explains to us why freedom isn’t free. Two years ago a soldier from Afghanistan told us the media does not reflect the reality of what is really going on, and newspapers are bad for the soldiers’ morale. He told us how important their work was over there. It was really good to hear that. Today a general told us to teach our children about the sacrifices made for our nation. Because if a generation doesn’t have to pay anything for their freedom, they won’t appreciate it. He is right. Humans have a way of forgetting their blessings.
Later in the ceremony, people line up to put up wreaths to honor dead soldiers. This is a extremely moving. Many people in the line must be assisted, since they are elderly. A Vietnam vet always brings a rifle, a pair of muddy boots, and a helmet to lay down at the memorial. When he salutes it, there isn’t a dry eye in the place.
Finally, balloons are released, “Taps” is played, and there is usually a flyover (not today). Very cool. We are always glad we went.
After the service, we all met at Woods Park to play softball.
Don’t you love how Maddie hops onto home plate?
Then off to Aunt Rachel’s house for a picnic. Cooper enjoyed the watermelon, and we enjoyed watching Cooper enjoy watermelon.
The baby robins in Rachel’s tree wanted to picnic, too. We had a lot of food, but no one remembered the regurgitated worms.
Driving home in the Chevelle is usually an adventure, but not enough to keep anyone awake in the backseat.
Happy Memorial Day.
Kerri said,
May 26, 2009 at 4:18 pm
Great post. We all need to be reminded of the sacrifices made for so much of what we generally take for granted.
Love the first flag picture.
Also–this should make you feel a little bit better: I still need you, and I will always be OLDER than you.
Love you, friend!
burdenofglory said,
May 27, 2009 at 1:12 pm
Thanks, Kerri. Your age and need do make me feel better.
Bethany said,
May 27, 2009 at 11:12 am
I do like Maddie’s hopping – very dainty. I will have to employ it at my next game (upon return to the States, of course). We’re supposed to slide anytime there’s a play at the plate, but I think a small hop would suffice just as well.
burdenofglory said,
May 27, 2009 at 1:15 pm
Hopping was nice for this laid back pick-up game, but I would have to say in some Hinrichs gaming situations, hopping would not be permitted. I have had to sacrifice my body many times for the sake of the team.
Marc, Sr. said,
May 29, 2009 at 3:25 pm
Great shot of the baby birds, and adorable back seat photo.