Memorial Day Weekend

Today we celebrate Memorial Day. A day to thank all of those in the Armed Forces who are now serving and have served in the past our country and the fight for our freedom. Something we take for granted.

I have several in my own family to thank for this freedom. My brother, Ronald, served 22 years. 2 in the Navy at Okinawa, and 20 in the Army. He served 3 terms in Vietnam. He did give his life for our country because all three times he went to Vietnam he flew by helicopter into the enemy area where they dropped agent orange. Agent orange causes liver cancer. Ronald died of liver cancer at the young age of 48. He was only home from the miltary for a few years.

My brother Larry served in the Marine Corp. He did not have the opportunity to serve for very long, but he did serve and was given a medical discharge. My family is very fortunate that he did come home as he was the lifeline of our family for many years and helped to take care of us at home.

My brother Mike, served 20 years in the Navy. He too was overseas and stationed in various parts of the world and the west and east coasts. He worked on helicopters. And I'm sure there were many other areas where he worked, but I'm not sure what they were. Michael passed away recently at the young age of 59. He had a few years longer to enjoy life as a civilian. But not long enough.

I also have a nephew, Eddie and his wife Kim who have served many years in the National Guard and they have spent many weeks and months away from their children to serve our country.

To all these I thank you and appreciate your sacrifices for my freendom. May God Bless you and your families.

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The weekend was pretty hectic starting with Friday evening and our little Marissa's dance recital. She stole the show with her groups routine as she was the only one who kept dancing and never paused or looked like she didn't know what to do next! she wore a little blue tutu and even makeup. She was a doll! we were so proud of her. Then we went out to eat and her daddy ordered her own order of "pickles" just for the occassion. She loves pickles.

Saturday and Sunday I worked at Carillon. I called bingo for the residents, rewarded all who attended with some goodies. Then Sunday afternoon, Bruce and I invited the residents to an Ice Cream Social which they loved! They visited and talked with each other and it was a lot of fun!

Today Bruce and I spent a few hours working on the house; putting up new doors and then went shopping for plants. We purchased 2 rose bushes which we planted in the front yard, zinnas and a beautiful flower bowl to hang outside. We also planted lettuce, cucumbers, eggplant, squash and peppers. We like to have a few fresh veggies for the summer months.

we also tried our hand at Wii Tennis this weekend. It was a hoot! we had a good time and used a few muscles that we haven't used for a while...OUCH!

so that's my story and I'm sticking to it! I hope all my loved ones had a great long weekend!!!