A Memorable Day

In Flanders fields the poppies blow

Between the crosses, row on row,

That mark our place; and in the sky

The larks, still bravely singing, fly

Scarce heard amid the guns below.

 

We are the Dead. Short days ago

We lived, felt dawn, saw sunsets glow,

Loved, and were loved, and now we lie

In Flanders fields.

 

Take up our quarrel with the foe:

To you from failing hands we throw

The torch; be yours to hold it high.

If ye break faith with us who die

We shall not sleep, though poppies grow

In Flanders fields.

These are the opening words of Col. John McCrae's immortal poem dedicated to the memory of the men and women who served, fought and died in France during WWI. The poppies of which he wrote have become the true symbol of all those who have given their lives in our nation's wars. (from the VFW)

As a child, a paper or felt poppy was as much a part of recognizing Memorial Day in May (which we actually called Decoration Day because we would go to the cemeteries to clean the graves of our ancestors and decorate them with flowers) and Veteran's Day in November as displaying the flag was. It has been years since I've seen or thought about the symbol and tradition of the poppy, and am grateful for the reminder this year. So many people have willingly served and fought, sacrificed being with their families, suffered injuries, and even died, for my freedom. I can't really comprehend it, but I know I am indebted, and I hope to never take it for granted.

God bless America, and especially all those who serve to keep it noble and great.


They're back!

What fun it has been to have these beauties soaring overhead in our neighborhood.  30 launched over a one-hour period today, and at one point I could count 16 in the sky.

I loved seeing the flag unfurling as this one took flight

 

 

 

"Which way to Kansas?"

 

One pilot had to work hard to keep from landing in the middle of our cul-de-sac. Kris was pretty excited when he saw a hot air balloon practically in our street. He and I carried on a nice little conversation with the pilot, who asked for directions to Kansas. Kris talked about the Wizard of Oz at random moments for the rest of the day.

As much as Kris likes to stay home and watch TV he never hesitates to get ready when we tell him we're heading to take flowers to Aunt Joy's grave. It's a pretty tender time for these 2 brothers/nephews.

The tradition continues to have breakfast at the New Clock Restaurant Keven discovered 10 years ago on Dyer, near the cemetery.

Excellent hot chocolate!

Muy bueno huevos & frijoles!

Kris told the waitress he spelled his name with a "K" - I wonder if that explains her spelling of quesadilla??!

I was thrilled today when we were able to get silk poppies from veterans outside Walmart. It has been years since I've seen anybody passing them out, and it was particularly meaningful for me today. I had already taken off my makeup and brushed out my hair when this picture was taken, don't judge!

 

We ended the day by having some of our best friends come over for a BBQ. We ate lots of great food, shared some wonderful stories about family members who have served in the military, and reminisced about times past and raising our kids and each others' kids.

But now I'm needing to talk to some of my kids - I heard some new stories ....

This Would Have Been a Great Day.....



for the grandkids to have been in town!

 

 

This morning I was awakened by an odd, but somehow familiar sound. When I realized what it actually was I leapt out of bed, threw open the balcony door, and fully expected to see a hot air balloon descending into our cul-de-sac. And I was almost right! I ran downstairs, grabbed my camera and took the following pictures in a span of 5-10 minutes from the front yard (and I wasn't the only one in the neighborhood running around in my pj's).

 

 



I really thought this one was going to land in our back yard

We waved at each other

Into the sunrise

I'm pretty sure this is the same one that landed in the field behind us several years ago that I got to help pack up.

 For a few moments it looked like they were going to collide, but then the one on the right descended and the one on the left shot up.

For Rachele!

El Paso's annual 3-Day Balloon Festival was held just 1/2 mile from our home this year - about a mile closer than when they launched from Santa Teresa. Yesterday there was one lone balloon (the boring blue & white one above) when I went running. Today was the best I've seen for years. For sure, I will be on the roof in the morning for the main launch of the event. For sure, it would be so much fun if the kids and grandkids were here too!

Rules of the House

This Is The Day Which The Lord Hath Made

I have always loved this scripture from Psalm 118, a reminder to find joy every single day. Some days are easier than others. Like today.

 

 

I experienced great joy in recognizing that there really are angels among us. Two of them stepped in last minute to teach my 6 am Seminary class yesterday and today. I had squeaked through Monday's lesson and hacked and croaked through Tuesday's. It wasn't amusing, in fact I think the kids were alarmed. By early Tuesday afternoon I didn't think I was heading the right direction so asked one of the parents to teach Wednesday. With no hesitation he agreed. I got myself to Dr. Rocky's office Wednesday, convinced he would have a miracle cure and I'd be back in business for Thursday. He took very good care of me, but by mid-afternoon it was obvious I wasn't going to be able to teach Thursday. Another parent was asked, another quick response in the affirmative. Of course, this isn't the first time I've recognized I am surrounded by angels, but it was a huge blessing to have such immediate help and support.
 

 

I rejoice that I live in this day of modern medicine! A fine doctor + good medicine + 24 hours = I am feeling almost completely human again! (It's especially nice that the good doctor and his good wife happen to share a grandchild with us!)
 

Ben, newborn Avery, Rocky & Bobbi - July 2011

 

As I rearranged a few things in the pantry I found an unopened jar of Speculoos!!!
 


I may or may not have danced the dance of joy. OK, I DID dance the dance of joy! Just thinking about that right now sent me back to the pantry for more.
 

 BTW, does Birgid know about Speculoos? Birgid needs to know about Speculoos!
 (It's especially nice that I also get to share grandchildren with this wonderful woman and her wonderful husband!)

Mitchell, Me, Aubree, Birgid, Curtis & Gordon 

 

Today I found great joy (and humor) in the company of Kris. He came along for the ride this morning when I went to the office to pick up some files. He hadn't met our receptionist or a few other people there, and he made a great impression, being just as charming as could be. A little bit country, a little bit rock & roll. A little bit Elvis. A little bit Romeo. Lots of smiles all around, the genuine kind.

 

 

Reasons for additional  joy, gladness and rejoicing today:

A lovely phone conversation with my mom. We didn't get a good one on Mother's Day because Aunt Lois & Ann were visiting when I called earlier in the day, and by evening I was unable to speak above a whisper. I love my mom so much, and I ♥ this epic picture my niece found this week! 

 

 I finally felt productive for the 1st time all week today:

Sorted through my closet and got rid of stuff, organized stuff & put stuff in storage

Mowed the front lawn, weeded & watered

Played with the dogs

Caught up with all the laundry
Enjoyed dinner with Kris at Chile's - you'll have to check his blog later to find out more about that!

Foot soak and pedi, self-administered, while watching a movie. When do I ever do that??
and

An opportunity to reflect on the perfect Plan of Happiness, and the joyful reunion 2 dear friends of ours are having right now

Yup, life IS good. Sure, there are things that cause me to worry, wonder and fret. I try hard not to be fearful. This world is getting crazier all the time, but since I know how it's all going to end I'd rather focus on what is positive and good, and work a little harder every day to be a little bit better. Maybe even once in a while be the angel someone else needs.

Time Flies, Part II

Two years ago today we spent the day kowtowing and chanting, "Master Tanja, you are so wise and wonderful!"

She deserved it, for she had spent 2 hard years completing her Masters of Science at Utah State, qualifying her to be a Speech Language Pathologist. It was a day full of smiles and hugs, tears of joy and exultant rejoicing.

Where's Waldo?

Hooding or strangulation?

 

Happy, happy, joy, joy!

A team effort - way to go Tanja & Brad!

 

 

Proud Parentals 

REALLY proud parental!

 

Sister Support

 

 

The Master and her cheering section

 

 

Brand New SLP's

 

Look who's jumping the highest!

 

 

Family celebration at Buca di Beppo's, joined by Elder and Sister Patten!

 

♥♥♥

 

Family, Italian food, flowers and Belgian waffles - seemed like a perfect way to celebrate a very special achievement!

 

Update: Tanja worked the first year at the VA Rehabilitation Hospital in Ogden, Utah, spent a summer (mostly) traveling and vacationing, and is finishing a year of working with children in the Ogden School District.  She is now awaiting the arrival of Baby Boy Dalton, who I am sure will quickly come to know her as Master Mom!

We are proud of you, Tanja, and all of your accomplishments!