Cemetery Visiting

As you both know, cemetery visiting is a ritual for dad and I ever since we took care of Lakeview when you girls were MUCH younger.  Yesterday we picked up Grandma for breakfast and then we were off to eight different cemeteries.  (Valley Springs, Hills, Steen, Rock Rapids, Doon, Rock Valley, Lester and Larchwood)    We put flowers out at Valley Springs, Hills and Steen.  Uncle Rich had brought a geranium for Aunt Pat's grave plus a bunch of silk flowers and a couple of crosses so I took most of what he brought apart, bought some new flowers for the crosses and went from there.

Grandma had these red flowers hanging down in her storage unit for years and decided maybe she should put them out this year.  She was pleased with the look of it when we finished.

 I think this is a bit flowery but Uncle Rich likes lots of flowers.  After Memorial Day, I think dad and I will plant some day lilies where the orange cross is. 

 

Aunt Fanny always brought flowers for Grandpa's vase every spring and since she died, I've taken over for her.  I always try to find something bright that can be seen from the road.  I think it's a good tradition to carry on.

 This was the first year we've ever put anything out for Grandma but Rich had brought this pink bouquet and it looked really nice out there. 

 This little gravestone was a highlight for Grandma.  This is her little brother who died when she was 8 years old - she doesn't remember a funeral nor does she know what he died from.  She had no idea where he was buried but as we were driving/walking around, we found this.  We also found several other "Gorter" gravesites.  I think it was "fun" for her as she tried to remember who some of these people might have been and how they were related to her.

I'm sure there are many people who think our spring ritual is morbid but for us, it's a journey down memory lane.  I saw the gravesites of both sets of my grandparents and it brings back happy memories of going to their homes and a sense of comfort knowing that they are with our Lord and Savior waiting for us to arrive home.

I always feel a bit sad though when I visit Aunt Nel - I just wasn't ready to let her go.

As Memorial Day comes, we think of our armed forces and what they have done to help us keep our freedom.  But I also think it's a time to remember our loved ones and how they have influenced our lives and help make us the people we are today.

Enjoy the holiday!!!!  Loads of love from,
Gramma and MOM