May 28, 2012

Memorial Day honors the US men and women who died while in the military, serving their country. It is a day to remember all the people who have served - and are serving - in the armed forces; our surviving veterans; and to honor those who have died in past wars.  Since my Papa, a veteran, had teased me about missing my enchilada casserole--I decided the kids and I would celebrate his years of service during this Memorial weekend.  While I made his enchiladas, the kids cut a brownie with star cookie cutters, decorated a gift bag and made a card for him.

We decided to wear our red, whites, and blues when we delivered his goodies.  We also prepared a few questions that the kids had for him.

Some of their questions included:  Why did you decide to serve?  Did you have to live in tents?  Did you ever fly in a plane or a blimp?  Were you injured? Did you miss your family? I think Papa got a kick out of answering them.  The kids were so focused and intent on his answers.  They listened enthusiastically which inevitably led to more questions.  Papa continued to answer them even when they were a bit over the top and he kept his sense of humor: ) 

We gathered around his chair and captured the moment. . .because the reality is we don't know how much time we have with him.  His poor knees have gotten worse.  He is getting older.  We all are, but what a gift my kids have in listening to his stories--what a gift it is to me to hear about him living over seas and meeting John Wayne!  He has such a rich history to share as do most of our elders, but it seems sometimes we don't make the time to listen.

We are all busy in our day to day lives.  But we wouldn't be here if not for the parents and grandparents who raised us.  Their life stories are waiting to be told; waiting to be asked; waiting to share.  I'm grateful for the opportunity this Memorial Day weekend to celebrate Papa and thank him for his service, to ask questions, and to listen to details from an important past.

 Gratitude and prayers for all who have served before and all those who are serving now and will serve in the future.  Thank you.