We were not the only family sharing a meal

At my son's house, there is a nest.  Mama bird was sitting on it, except for when she hopped off to get food, and came back to feed her chirping babies.  We enjoyed this as part of "dinner and a show" in their backyard.

I talked too much.  I always talk too much.  Especially when people encourage me with questions:  like, "Heidi is Jonathan's cousin, how did they get out to New York, when the rest of the family is here?"  

So that tale came out, all the way back to when my brother said to me, on the eve of my graduating University, while the mythical son was still in diapers:  "No one will hire you.  You're too old."  Long story.

Also trotted out were memories from both sides of the soon to be in-law collection about where we were when... our individual and family experiences during Viet Nam era.  Very appropriate to the day we are honoring those lost in wars.  Then dating back to prior generations in WWII, and the fact that a lot of those who served only talked in the presence of other veterans, and that's how the stories were constructed in the minds of those overhearing.

The spiedies turned out wonderfully.  The meat was properly seasoned, and my son has obviously done his homework in that regard.  The tricky part of spiedies done "out here" in the Western states is that we just don't have the same breads available.  It's an Italian roll that it should properly be served on.  DIL to be did a fine job of coming closer to the spirit of the sandwich than I ever did.  Still not quite the same, but excellent, nonetheless.

There was chatter about the big trip they came back from.  And a lot of laughter.

There were updates on the Wedding plans and what is influencing their decisions about venue and timing.  We have an anticipated date in April, 2023, based on when they think will be "good" in terms of potential outdoor ceremony and reception, and any "plan B" in case of rain or snow.  They are taking their time visiting the sites and looking at photographic backgrounds.  They have a friend who is to cater the reception:  hot dogs are on the menu, as that is the friend's specialty.  

There was a bit of speculation / planning to go to a minor league baseball game as a group sometime this Summer.  But we couldn't decide on a date / availability of seats, etc.  Yet.  Similar with when the next grill out will be, given that the son is doing a full Summer School schedule.

And of course the other biggie.  His MIL to be has to ask my son, "Where's your truck?  Or is that becoming a sore subject?"  My son preordered a hybrid truck for delivery last Autumn.  The kids are looking for a vehicle that will both be "greener" and be able to haul their kayaks.  But one might expect supply chain issues, right?  Son indicated that his most recent communique with the dealer is his truck was in Kansas City, and should be in town and available to him "no later than" today.  I shall believe it when I see it, and am not holding my breath.  I fully expect that when they finally take delivery on the truck, it will be driven around town so the interested parties might have a look!

Carl was a pistol when I first arrived... so excited at having company!  But he did calm down and behave himself, especially as he wanted his share of the spiedie fragments.

 

Monday afternoon, I got out the recorder to play Taps Across America.  At 3 p.m. I played taps (yes, I remember the fingering) on my deck, then moved to the front porch and repeated the tune.  Rest in peace, service men and women who gave all in support of your mission(s).  Let us honor you in our actions and our hearts.

Happy Memorial Day.