A Memorial Day Walk

One of the more popular ideas that have come along in the last 20 years or so is to tear out old abandoned railroad lines and replace them with paved walking/biking trails that connect several communities and parks together.  They make wonderful places for families to get out and enjoy the fresh air in a variety of ways.  We are fortunate to have such a trail in our community which we were able to take advantage of just last Monday on Memorial Day morning.  

Located just a short distance from the city center and the lake the trail is paved for 29 miles.  There is is also an unpaved path for equestrians to enjoy.  

There are benches along the way where one can stop to take  a rest or just watch people going by.

 
It was a pretty popular place to be that morning.  As we walked along we passed walkers and joggers as well as folks on bikes or roller blades.  

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As we walked along we passed houses and small farms nestled in the trees.  Across the road were meadows and open spaces

One enterprising fellow had put together a little free library where anyone can stop to trade for a book and even rest for a while as you look it over.  I think I will have to come back here to take a closer look in the future.

We only took the time for a quick 45 minute walk before returning home to prepare for the kids who were arriving later in the afternoon.  Memorial Day is considered the official start of the summer.  So, The Inspector fired up the grill to cook the first outdoor meal of the season and what's better than burgers with chips and corn on the cob?  Delicious! Especially when eaten out of doors.

 One thing which we mustn't lose sight of as we celebrate in the sun is the whole reason we have this Memorial Holiday in the first place.  That's to remember and thank all those who have fought and sacrificed in order to preserve our land and our freedoms.   This day there was a memorial tribute to our soldiers at the Veteran's Memorial in the center of town.

So I give thanks for this country I call home and all those who work so tirelessly to keep us safe.  May the Good Lord bless and keep each of you and your families and may he give you his peace.