The graves were on a hill and between a tree and a tall bush and there was a water faucet nearby. Even with good markers like that it was hard to find the grave because of the flat head stones. We made an adventure trying to see who could find them first.
When we finished decorating the graves we drove downtown to Flint Original Coney Island for takeouts.
Decorating the graves was important to my mother. She and my Aunt Luella differed on the practice. I remember Aunt Luella saying "I don't want people giving me flowers after I'm gone. If you want to give me flowers do it now while I can appreciate them."
My mother laughed and told her "You better not die before me then, because I'll decorate your grave." Every year after Aunt Luella died we took flowers to her and every year my mom would laugh while a tear rolled down her cheek and say "She's probably rolling over in her grave."
After my mother died, my dad took on the job. A few months before he died Dad and I went to the cemetary together for the last time. We went to 4 cemetaries and hit 17 graves that day. We no longer had lilac and snowball bushs to pick from so we bought cut flowers and potted plants and flags for those who were Vets.
When the grands were old enough I started bringing them along when ever they could come. Last year we looked for my grandparents grave for 40 minutes. They'd cut down old trees and planted some new and it threw me off. The boys wanted to quit but by then I was determined I would find it or else.
I called them over to me and we held hands and I prayed outloud "Father, we want to show our respect for our grandparents and place some flowers on their grave but we can't find them. If its your will Father would you help us, so we can move on. I kid you not, when finished my grandson AJ took 3 steps and said "Here it is Grama." What a wonderful lesson to show them the power of prayer.
I've decided to decorate the graves differently this year.
I believe that my loved ones are joined with God in heaven, and I believe they see the world now with "God Eyes." They care way more about humanity then whether or not their grave is decorated with flowers. In their honor I have sent a check to Abortion Alternatives and to the East Side Soup Kitchen.
If you've read this blog you know how much I love my husband and my parents. But just incase someone questions my love because I've failed to show it on Memorial Day, I'll leave this sign at their grave. (click on pic to read message)
