Happy Memorial Day

I have fond memories of how Memorial Day was commemorated by the family as I was growing up. And today, thinking about it, I just wanted to thank my Dad for:
teaching me to honor and reverence the American flag,
always acknowledging in his prayers his gratitude for living in a land of freedom and
teaching me respect for our country's leaders and those who serve in the military.
This is part of the legacy you left your family, dearest Dad. And we love you for it.
I recognize and want to acknowledge Dad's justified pride for the military service of Charles and his son John. And I know he is/would be proud of Jacob's love of serving his country. Dick Roth also served in the Army and Lawrence in the National Guard.

The Beloved Rituals

Saturday night watching Lawrence Welk
Taking turns grocery shopping with Mother and Dad -- at the Safeways downtown by Sears -- one child at a time and getting to pick out the candy bars, enough for everyone to have just one
Fried hamburgers
Potato pancakes from leftover mashed potatoes
Driving around to see Christmas lights on Christmas Eve
Going sledding with the sled pulled behind the car
Visits to Aunt Jean and Uncle Walker
Chili and donuts on Halloween
Going swimming at Nat-Su-Pa