I’m watching the Memorial Day service from Arlington cemetery today. Arlington always makes me feel so terribly sad. I remember the first time I went there. I was visiting my brother and sister-in-law (35+ years ago) and I set out on days of adventures in D.C. Among those was a trip to Arlington with Diane. We happened to be there the day of a funeral. And although the tours give people their privacy, Diane and I had been walking sections of the cemetery and ended near the funeral. Seeing this one person laid to rest among a sea of white headstones was so heartbreaking. I am overwhelmed by this field of humanity that gave their lives for us. I try to go to Arlington every time I’m in D.C. – and just experience the quiet and the history and the loss.
Amidst the sadness of Memorial Day, I also have cause to celebrate today. Another 1.2 lbs gone. You know I’d hoped for 2 … but I’ll take this! As I mentioned yesterday, I’m renewing my commitment to staying on the plan. No straying, no cheating … for one whole weak. I’m off to a great start – I ate the wrong breakfast! I looked at my menu without my readers on. Thought it said oatmeal, and really it was cereal. Pretty funny. Oh well – that’s not a cheat, it’s just an error. I can live with that, right?
My Grandma Burns always said to keep a “grateful list” – the people you most appreciated on that day – so that if you had the chance, you could say thank you. So on my grateful list today … 1) the sons and daughters who died to keep me safe; 2) my brother and Dad and uncles, who safely served in the military and came home; 3) my roommate, Carol, who patiently supports me in this weight-loss effort, foibles and all; 4) my sister Karen, who shares her trials and her celebrations as we weight-loss travel together; and, 5) my friends and family who check-in and show support as I go along my way.
That’s all for today.