Memorial Day

This may be rather sad to think about, but it will make me feel better about the upcoming holiday. You see, rather than visiting gravesites, I will be hosting a cookout and playing cornhole. So, I'm using today to remember. Here's a list of those who have gone before me that I will always remember, and what comes to mind as I think of them:

Chad--my first ever boyfriend. He was such a "sweet" guy...the kid next door...nothing super extraordinary about him, but someone everyone should have had the chance to befriend. The funniest thing I remember is that he was spelling "Happy Holidays" in lights on his rooftop, and misspelled HOLIDAYS! LOL! He will be gone 10 years this Christmas season, and it seems unreal that I have lived a third of my life now without him. Can't wait to see him again.

Great Grandma Kaper- the woman always had a dollar for me in her "pocketbook"--it was the heaviest black purse I have ever seen with more compartments than a jewelry box. She was full of life and always liked to be right in the middle of things. Oh, and she LOVED Frischs and Friendlys!

Great-Grandpa Kaper--his mole....and I'll leave it at that!

Grandma Rose--I remember going to the hospital a lot to see her at the end, but we weren't allowed up to see her until she was about to die. I remember being scared to touch her, and regret not having more years with her. She also always bought us underwear for Christmas!

Grandpa Harry--the ice cream man! He always had ice cream....and Whoppers for us! And our dogs loved him! He always said he wouldn't quit smoking because if he was gonna die, he was gonna die doing what he wanted and eating what he wanted. Cancer took his wife, heart disease took him.

Great Grandma Finke--I remember how petite she was, and how her house smelled. I never wanted to go see her, but now that I've learned more about her life and how she lived and grew up, I wish I had gone and seen her and talked to her more.

Bob--my friend Marie lost her husband 10 years ago this Fall...what a sad passing and horrible time...right before their first child was born. He was a fabulous man that every woman would be so lucky to have--caring and dedicated.

To all those who have gone before me, I salute you and think of you fondly on this day, and everyday. I will see you again....for sure! Save me a good seat!