Memorial Day means a many different things to many a different people. I guess back in its origins it was intended to be an opportunity for those fortunate enough to call themselves 'Americans' a special day to recognize those brave men and women that have served in our armed forces through the years and say thank you for their sacrifice and dedication to maintaing our freedom. In spite of all of our political and social dysfunction - it's still the greatest country to call home. Many men and women have shed their blood to give us the comforts we so often take for granted, but on this day let us remember their sacrifice.
This day was also memorable because my nephew had his 8th birthday party today (Captain America theme which was so cool!). His birthday was actually on the 17th, but my brother's family is pretty busy and this was the first time they could get everyone together to celebrate. It was a blast! Water guns and balloons, baseball, presents, cake, burgers, and plenty of good conversation made for a fantastic day! How appropriate to remember the sacrifice of some by celebrating the life of a child.
But something else made it extra special. This day happened to be my beautiful wife's birthday. Most people do not get a national holiday for their birthday (unless of course you're born on Christmas Day) - so she was feeling pretty good about herself. We got to go out to dinner last night and enjoy some delicious ice cream from the Custard Stand in Sesser, IL. (If you've never been there - put it on your list) We walked around Target and just enjoyed some time together - just the 2 of us. (That doesn't happen very often with a 2 and 4 year old…) We decided that we still wanted to try and celebrate her birthday today, too, even though we had our nephew's party to go to. So we did! We started the day with homemade birthday cards and pancakes at home. Then to visit family for the party. Then - we came back to enjoy 'Choc A Lot' cake at home with her mom (devils' food cake layered with chocolate frosting, chocolate mouse, marshmallow fondant on the outside, and chocolate ganache over the top. Yes - it is as you assume… Are you thirsty for milk?) We then closed out with a few gifts and said our 'happy birthday' for the last time. I hope she had a good birthday - one worthy of remembering.
It's important to remember the good times as we get older. With so much 'bad' that takes place in our adult lives - it's important to store those memories in our hard drives so that we can go back to them as we need to. So this Memorial Day - Whether it be the heroic deed of a few or another 365 days for someone special - we should thank God for each blessing He sends our way. And… We should celebrate! We should eat, laugh, spray each other with water, and thank The Lord for His favor on our lives. So what are you waiting for? Go celebrate this day! Wa hoo!!!
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