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I had a pretty good day today. Thot I would not ever say that after visiting my wife's gravesite in Leavenworth. This is the second Christmas I'll be alone since she died in mid-2017. But at special holidays and memory days of our years together, I usually put flowers or an appropriate seasonal decoration by her white headstone.

The weather was very friendly for an outdoor visit ---mid-50s and sunny. On the way to Leavenworth, I stopped at a Cracker Barrel, where my wife, Joyce, always loved to shop in their Country Store. She loved all kinds of small & delicate Christmas decos. Found a 3" wood reindeer with a star painted on it, which is exactly what she would have enjoyed hanging on our stick Christmas tree. I had a metal hanger and made a little hook to hang the reindeer, and placed it in the ground by the side of the stone. Sharing one photo below.

Since it is the holiday and Advent Season, many of the white headstones had beautiful Christmas wreaths and various holiday decorations….plus many US flags from Pearl Harbor Day, too. I walked amongst several rows, and bumped into an unusual last name on one stone. Being former USAF, I find the "stories" of vets shared on the stones interesting to read. Here is the last name of this Army MSGT...."Yule." Seems to fit well with a December visit. He was quite an elderly gentleman, and had served during WWII, Korea, and VietNam. Quite a record of giving to our country!

Finished my mini tour of the holiday decorations, and just took a few deep breaths enjoying the fresh air, and especially the quietness this well-kept national cemetery affords. One final thing, which was quite a surprise to me. Joyce died only 15 months ago, and today was the first time I've visited there that I haven't cried hard and long because of the deep hurt and loss, which is always inside me.

So that is why I can say, "I had a pretty good day today."

Appreciate you all bearing with me and my December thots about my dear wife.
In advance, have a blessed Advent Season and a very Merry Christmas.
I pray all the best blessings from God for each of you in 2019.
PT7

Thank you PT7. While I do not share the loss of a wife, my parents are both in Fort Logan national cemetery in Denver. It is a very special place for me. My thoughts are with you.

Amazing story PT7. I admire how you're still able to include Joyce in your Christmas, as best as you know how.

Tears shed for your loss. A smile for you finding that small but meaningful ornament that your wife would have loved. A good day to visit your love not to say goodbye but to confirm that you are still in love. And that her love sustains you still.

PT7, thank you for sharing this heart felt story with us. We all endure our own private pain. I hope your Christmas is indeed merry this year. You are a special person and friend. I hope the New Year brings better times for you. Feel free to share what you need to here, there are some special and caring individuals here.

P.S. I still remember the HIHIGLy way!