Memorial Day spinners

Each year, our reunion ends with a trip to visit those family members who can no longer join us in celebrating, but remain in our hearts. I'd like to think that my grandparents are proud of us for reuniting and keeping it together; letting our little ones know how proud we are of where we come from and the stories that have built our family tree.

So, the cemetary is our favorite stop, where we lay flowers and place little spinners in tribute of grandparents, uncles, cousins, a brother that has gone before us. I tell the kids that once the spinner is firmly in the ground and it begins to turn - it is a sign that they know we are there - visiting, even if for a short while. Brandan places his first spinner, each year, on my brother Brian's grave, while Aly made sure to place her's on the most recently lost loved one; an uncle.

We gather and chat, while the hill provided us with a cool breeze to enjoy the serene afternoon.

sweet reflection

It seems we have lost so many so recently, but more than seventeen years have gone by since our grandfather passed away. There is a simple peace amongst us, knowing that our paths were carved not solely based on the decisions that we have made on our own, but by those who came before us and led the way. We are very unique individuals given a strong vantage point from which to build, and we are blessed to have witnessed such beautiful spirits.

We carry on with certain traits; a crooked smile or sweet dimple, a longer chin or big hazel eyes...

...and thank our ancestors on this Memorial day.