Memorial Day 2013

It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.
George S. Patton 

Heroes. Whether on the battlefield or at home, our ancestors were fighters. They made it possible for us to be free in many ways. So in an effort to remember their sacrifices we set out on a trek. It was good to remember those that have passed, to recall memories and share those with the kids. My kids never got to meet my Grandpa Nelson, but through our stories they can know about him. We visited Nana's grave, she lived to the ripe old age of 95, passing in 2007. Lauren and Jace were old enough at the time she died and still remember their great- great grandma Leona Ray (Nana). We also visited my mom's parents (Wagner) and step dad in Boulder City. My kids were able to know their Grandma Dottie (died 2005) but not Grandpa Charlie (died 1994) or step Grandpa George Clark. 

After our "grave hopping" as my mother so eloquently calls it, we all had lunch at a "greasy spoon" diner on the main drag in Boulder City. There was fry sauce so it was legit.

Cousins Trenton, Jake, and Clark + Jace

Cousin Hannah, Cousin Ava, Lauren, and Lauren's friend Taylor

That evening the crew swarmed my parents house for a barbecue and swimming extravaganza. As usual that early in the season the pool was a tad chilly for my taste, but the kids enjoyed it.Family bonding time!!

 I love that we can create new memories while building upon the old ones. Sharing stories, laughing together and at each other; that is what makes us a family. The End!!