Memorial Day

The day of the Mini marked the 15th anniversary of Charlie Petefish's passing. We were obviously tied up that day so the next day we went to see him. I made Jackson a copy of his Mini bib, he "laminated" it (with packing tape) and tucked it under flowers on Charlie's tombstone. It is always so sobering to go visit graves.


I wanted to give Jackson some time to catch up with Charlie so I stood back for a bit. I couldn't resist snapping a photo to send to a traveling Susie so she could see the sweet sight I was taking in.


MacKenzie came along on our visit and was such a good girl. My heart just broke when she knew that her dad was sad so she sat down beside him without being prompted. Jackson kept telling her that Charlie would have played endless ball games. I think he still will play endless ball games with MacK, it just won't be here on our earthy home.

When I first met Jackson eight years ago I'd never lost anyone really, really close to me. I remember being so impressed with how often his family still reflected on his father's life even after he'd been gone for about seven years. Moreover, they could do it without bawling their eyes out. (Jackson does get weepy about it sometimes, but usually only on special occasions that he wishes Charlie could be a part of.) Now that I have lost someone who was super close to my heart I find the Petefish family to be even more impressive. I cannot imagine going through the loss of an immediate family member (and I hope to be the first to go so I never have to), but they've done it with love in their hearts and happy memories on their lips.

This Memorial Day I'll be remembering Charlie Petefish for his service to our dear country and ultimately having his life cut short because of that service. That's sacrifice and that's what this holiday celebrates. To any and all veterans of the armed voices, thank you. Thank you. Thank you.


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