Top

Stephanie Howell

reading, organizing, shopping, momming too close to the sun. Home is wherever the Army sends us.

In Memory.

In memory of all those who laid down their lives. You know by now that I’ll never say “Happy” in front of Memorial Day. It just seems wrong.

You know by now that I get a bit ragey if I see “Memorial Day is about ___________ (parties, BBQs, the beach, shopping, bacon-yes I’ve actually seen this one).”

Today I’m thinking of all of those empty chairs at the dinner table. The sons, daughters, sisters, brothers, husbands and wives that are no longer here. Those that never came home.

My heart is aching for all of those left behind. I’m thinking of all the tears shed and all of the memories that will never be made. Not just today, but every day…it’s our job to remember them and embrace those left behind as well.

I’ve pretty much said it all before, so I’ll just link you to some of my past posts.

2013

2011

2010

2009

Love to you all- I hope you get to spend today surrounded by those you love.

xo

S

Comments

  1. I was watching the national Memorial Day concert on pbs last night crying as the stories of fallen were read from perspective of a mom or wife…. Your past posts really bring what this day is all about front and center. You’re a gifted writer with so much heart.

  3. Stephanie, I used to be just like what you mentioned until I started reading your blog. Your blog changed my views on Memorial Day and so I thank you for that.
    Give a big thanks to Jimmy and another 2 for you and your girls. I can’t even imagine how you do it, I just know that you just have to keep on going on for your girls.

  4. Last weekend my sisters and I took a trip to Springfield Illinois to see President Lincoln’s tomb and the war memorials. While there we were able to find our cousin’s name on the VietNam memorial. I still remember the day my uncle called, I was only 10 yrs. old. Today I will take some time to remember how kind Jack was to all “the little girl cousins”, always making time for us. Taking us to the creek and watching while we climbed trees. That day so long ago, he was a hero, sacrificing his own life to save others. It is not a “happy” Memorial Day. But I can smile when I remember him and thank the Lord Jesus Christ for the time he shared Jack with us.

  5. Thank you for the sacrifices that you and your family make for our freedom. From our family to yours, THANK YOU. Also wanted to let you know that pioneer woman featured one of your “coming home” photos today.

  6. You always write the most lovely reminders of the true meaning of Memorial Day. Thank you.

  7. While you are in Europe, if you have not been there, you MUST go to Normandy. It is the most moving place I have ever been to.
    Forget the museums, the churches, the restaurants, the mountains…….Normandy is where you should go.
    J

  8. You write such poignant posts about remembrance and memorial Stephanie. I try to always remember the sacrifices made by so many, and to make sure my children understand and are grateful too. Thank you to you and your family, who are part of the service given by so many. A massive debt of gratitude is owed to all who have served and their families. CJ xx

  9. This. I don’t see anything wrong with thanking a Veteran on this day as I feel like they don’t get enough thanks but it is awkward for people to be excited about bbqs and what not.

  10. My family and I are lucky that my dad came home after Korea (@17), and after two tours in Vietnam. I am proud to be an Army born and raised dependent for my first 19 years of life. Lucky that my 13- year old boy can sit next to his Grandpa and listen to his stories and hope that one day we won’t have empty chairs and hearts with missing pieces because of war. Grateful to your husband and your family for service.

  11. We spent Memorial Day at our lodge with 30 relatives and friends. We had our annual Memorial Day service by our flag pole. We did the Pledge of Alligance , played taps . Then we follow that with going around the group and talking about those that have gone before us so we can enjoy our freedom. Everyone mentioned people that had served, our gds in the Marines , people we have lost. The ceremony is always really moving , we close by taking down the flag.
    May God continue to keep you and your family safe and thank Jim for all his service .