Although the morning was cold, windy & damp,  there was no where else to be but at the cemetery,  where we remembered and honored those who gave their lives defending our freedom. Memorial Day has become, for us, a day where we not only remember, but we teach. There is so much to learn about our country and those who served. So much history to be taught as well as honor, dignity, and respect. Whether it is all new, or a review, I'm love that we set aside a day in which we take time to be thankful for the fallen.
    Today we went to Lewis Cemetery in Independence, MN. We have a couple friends from our church that belong to the American Legion participating in the service. We love and support all members of our military, especially those family members who have served but are now gone. So it is a joy to honor those friends of ours, who are still with us, by supporting them on this special day.
    Here's a little play by play ;)  Despite the weather, the boys did great! Our little 'sunshine/storm cloud,' on the other hand, needed a nap.

The two older boys watched every move the honor guard made, as we found a spot up front.

And Steve was a trooper with a little one who wanted a nap ;)

Salute to the prisoners of war

I had them all wear hats so we could practice flag etiquette. They were so good about taking their hats off at the appropriate times. And they looked so cute holding their little hands over their precious little hearts : )

Okay, but the speaker did get a little long winded for them. They stayed still and remained quiet thanks to good ol' sand and rocks.

This was my favorite part. Amazing Grace on the bagpipes. Notice the soldier off in the distance symbolizing the fallen soldier. <3  (Of course I chose the wrong lens to bring).

The boys favorite part. 21 gun salute.

Some of our friends (and heroes).

Hats off as the colors pass. So cute, right?!

Feeling very honored (and a little nervous) to shake this mans hand, our friend Mr. Glenn

"Is he a real soldier, Mom?"

The boys even came away with a "prize." Mr. Glenn gave them each a shell casing from the 21 gun salute.

Happy Memorial Day!