Happy Memorial Day!

Good Morning to all my blogging friends of heart! This Memorial Day reminds me of those I have loved and lost. And even though my loss of blogging friends is my own fault...I do miss you all. I want to pay the highest tribute to those who put their lives on the line to protect our blessed freedom. I think of my father who joined the Army before they drafted him. I think of my uncle who served in Vietnam. And my cousin who fought in the first Gulf War; another cousin who was serving on the USS Nimitz in 1988 when a fire broke out on the ship. We were blessed during their time of service and no one gave his life.

But Memorial Day, to me, is for more than remembering the men and women who served in the Armed Forces.

I remember my Nunnie whom I miss dearly. She was my first best friend. I learned how to cook watching her in her kitchen. I wish my husband and children could have known her. They would have loved her just as I did, just as everyone who ever knew her. She was a saint on earth and my heart aches for the day I can hug her again.

I remember Nancy Jane, my other mother. Nancy was Holly's mom and she kept me in line just as my own mother does. I had more coffee at her table than any other, talked more gossip and laughed big-bellied laughs when she was around. She died on my father's birthday 3 years ago and I still talk to her when I make my first cup of coffee in the morning.

I remember my Grandma. A strong Irish woman whom I see every time I'm around my sister. From her hands to her work ethic her spirit is embodied in Carrie and I thank God for that. When I see my sister furiously cleaning her floors - I see my Grandma.

I remember my Paps. The two were as different any two could be with one exception: their love for their families. One was easy-going and one as tough as nails (not to me, of course.) I think that God knew what he was doing when he gave them their spouses. My grandmothers balanced out their personalities and I kinda like to think that's what He had in mind when he gave me Kenny.

And even though I never met Kenny's dad (he died when Kenny was 7) I remember him today. He served in Vietnam and was pretty easy going. I think Kenny got his temperament from him. And I'm pretty sure he would have liked me. I hope so anyway...

May you all have a memorable Memorial Day keeping your loved ones close to your heart.

Blessing of the day: I blessed because I come from a long line of heroes in my heart!