Memorial Day in the Country

As we near Memorial Day, I decided to visit my Grandpa Oscar’s grave site at Pleasant View Cemetery. It seems like yesterday that Oscar would stop over for coffee and offer up his advice about the farm operation, keeping us posted about the latest news in Thornton. He passed away a few years ago when Sophia was just in elementary school.

The cemetery is beautiful, located on the outskirts of town in the country. I fondly remember marching with my high school band to this cemetery, playing Amazing Grace, and marching back. I recognize many of the names on the headstones. I have loved-ones, relatives, and even a few school classmates buried there. Many of these folks are responsible for shaping me into the person I am today. I miss them.

I hunted asparagus on my way home, like I did with my grandmother growing up. We were proud of our resourcefulness. So many people don’t realize that asparagus grows wild in our ditches.

Most farmers have a small plot of asparagus on their property, as well as rhubarb. These delicious treats call me back to my roots and the good times with my family enjoying the simple things. Remember to take some time this Memorial Day weekend to pay respect to those who played a special role in your life and are no longer with us. Along the same lines, don’t forget to be mindful of this present moment and the affect you are having in another’s life as well. Gather at the grill and make some memories of your own.