Happy Memorial Day to everyone! Although my first thought when I think of Memorial Day is that it's the kick off to Summertime, we must also remember that, in reality, Memorial Day is a celebration of our veterans and the men and women who have died, fought, struggled, and tirelessly championed for the freedom of our nation and people, and continue to do so. My father was a veteran. He fought in WWII. He was a Paratrooper. It will be 10 years ago this September that he went to be with the Lord. He died at the age of 75. I was 3 months shy of 30. Although he died too soon for me, he did leave me with a strong sense of family, a desire to show kindness and respect to others, and a love of backroad drives in the country. My only sadness now, is that Rylie will never get to meet her Papa Joe. But I know my father is up in heaven looking after her, as he is me and the rest of his family.
I dont visit his gravesite as much as I probably should, but not a day goes by that I dont think of him for some reason or another. He was such a strong figure in my life from the day I was born to the day that he died. I will always have fond memories of my dad and will always carry my love for him strong in my heart. The graveyard he is buried at has a wonderful Veteran memorial. They have their annual flag ceremony and the grounds always look amazing no matter what time of year it is. We failed to take a cool picture of all the flags waving, but you can get the idea from the background of some of these photos.
My dad, 1971, when my sister and I were born.
Me with my mom and dad, college graduation.
Showing Rylie where her Papa Joe is buried.
My sister showing off her continuing-to-grow pregnant belly!
Nana and Pops bought Rylie a sandbox crab as an early birthday gift. She loves the sand, but hasn't quite realized that she shouldn't put it in her eyes and mouth. She enjoys splashing in her pool too. The water was still a bit cold and she was uneasy about getting in, so daddy had to get in with her so she would know it's okay.
Notice the Nutt men in the background putting together our new swing. Which we LOVE. Thank you Nana and Pops!
Finally, after all these years, our yard finally looks GREAT!! Thank you True Green Lawn Service. You guys really DO know what you are doing with all that weed and feed stuff.
Later that weekend....How about a day on the lake boating it up?
Rylie went to town on her macaroni n cheese that i ordered for her at the restaurant on the lake. Is there anything cooler than pulling up to a restaurant in your boat? As for this summer, i'm struggling to think of anything cooler.
Rylie loves her kisses from Pops!
A day out on the water is enough to wear out even the best little boater. She napped on the bench seat this time, with direct supervision to make sure she ddidn't roll off. I've since made this easier by buying her a little bed for the boat. You'll see in an upcoming post.
Happy Memorial Day to all....and here's to Summer!!!!
