A spiritual spark, continued...

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Examiner article

Today, I am thinking of my dad, he passed 6 years ago on May 20^th. He was a veteran. Many of the guys I see at the VA hospital (my boyfriend and I were just there on Friday), look like my dad. There is a lot of controversy about the VA system in the news right now although I must say, the hospital in Ann Arbor, Michigan, was extremely serviceable to my dad and our family.
 I always know summer has arrived when I get an unwelcomed breakout of poison ivy. My fiancé has it worse than me, which is why we visited the hospital this weekend.
 We’ll be spending some time on a nice little piece of wooded property my friend owns on a lake in Chelsea Michigan today. It is a beautiful spot to feel nature and boost the spirit.
  Whatever you’re doing this weekend, I’m hopeful you are honoring life in some healthy way. Have a happy and safe Memorial Day weekend!

Memories of warfare, continued...

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Examiner article

I lost my grandparents as an early adult. I remember as a child talking to my great grandpa and asking him about the horse and buggy days and the cost to buy certain things when he was a kid. I still love listening to seniors talk about their life stories. This particular article is focused on my boyfriend's grandpa, Gabe. He turned 90 this past year. He has such an interesting life and he is a veteran so today's article is appropriate for Memorial weekend.

Gabe remembers his time in the war vividly. It amazes me. At 42, I have a hard time coming up with details about certain experiences in my life but, I guess, war is hard to forget. Overall, and as most of the veterans I've talked to, he loved his time in the military.

I often sit beside of veterans at the Ann Arbor VA as they talk about their different experiences. If I could, I would document them although I don't as it would be inappropriate based on the VA's confidentiality policy. I still enjoy these stories!

Do you have a senior in your life? If so, take as much time as possible to learn about their life experiences. It is give you a new perspective of them!

Respect the fallen soldiers on Memorial Day, continued...

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Examiner article

What a great time of year for a three day weekend; in Michigan the weather is just moving from Spring's torrential down pours turning the world full of deep green, earthy colors blooming beautiful flowers transitioning to sunny, warm days. It is the perfect time of year for cookouts with family and friends.

It is critical though to remember and recognize why we're gifted with, for many, a 3-day weekend. I know several people who have served for our country and they are no longer with us but fortunately they returned safely from their time serving. Many families are not so lucky. The tally of military loss increases around the clock. These brave individuals are aware of this when they enlist and they still move forward serving. I can't imagine these circumstances although I'm so grateful for what they've done and continue to do for our country.

I will be sending special prayers for those lost serving and their families. What will you do?