Happy Memorial Day!

This morning after running a few errands we decided to stop by the cemetery where Caleb's maternal grandparents are buried. It was a good experience for Caleb to finally have to be the one to talk to Gavin about death and answer his never-ending stream of questions about it. It took a while, but seemed like Gavin finally understood what the cemetery was about and why were thought it was a good idea to go there today. It was super crowded, but nice to make the stop and give us a chance to reflect. Gavin and Henry spotted 2 potato bugs on the Atkinson headstone, which led to a long conversation in which Gav insisted that Memorial Day is a good day for potato bugs to visit everyone at the cemetery too. He is probably right.

I have some great memories of my Aunt Cathy loading up everyone she could find in her van (most not in seats) on Memorial Day and driving all over the gravel road of rural Iowa to the various small cemeteries where many of our ancestors are buried. She always took flowers from her own flower beds and we spent at least a little time pulling weeds from around the headstones. It was always pretty interesting and compelling to hear the stories about members of our family that she knew and until then had seemed quite far removed from my life, even when I was a grumpy teenager or got car sick sitting on the floor of the van. That's what makes the memories, am I right?

I spent the last hour finding all of the old scans of Caleb's ancestors and a few pictures of mine, and telling Gavin about who they are and what I know that they did. I will be forever grateful for all of those who we honor and remember today. All of which have shaped our lives through their choice and examples, and the love that they have shown us. I am glad to have this day to remind me that I need to remember.

Happy Memorial Day to you.