Memorial Day Weekend

First of all, it's important to remember what Memorial Day is all about - honoring those who've given their lives to protect our nation.  I am humbled by such sacrifice and do not take the freedoms we have for granted.  I am so happy that Saratoga Springs re-instated its Memorial Day Parade tomorrow, which had been cancelled due to lack of funds and interest.  A grass-roots reaction to that cancellation, through facebook, rallied supporters and the parade is back on.  Proud of our local citizens who stood up for what is right, especially when it comes to remembering those who deserve recognition for all they've given.

Like most people, I looked forward to this weekend with eager anticipation.  The thought of three days off from work was enticing enough.  Watching Katie and her family prepare for their first camping trip of the season was fun as Henry (who understands) and Peter (who doesn't) were jumping with excitement at all the goings-on.  They're up on an island in Lake George and she's posted a photo on facebook of Henry with his toes in the (60-degree!) water!

Henry the camper, Lake George this weekend!

Russ is here and we've been chick- and dog-sitting for the dozen newly-hatched adoptees from Henry's nursery school (don't ask about the other dozen who hatched but didn't make it).  They are thriving, so far, in their new home that Grandpa Richard Hofmann created for them.  Oden, the black lab, is happy as long as he can follow someone around, lay down by your feet, and eat.  Oh, and he likes to bark at every little sound, but that's Odie.

Chicks hanging out...

This afternoon, Russ and I are headed to Lake Placid and the Crown Plaza Hotel where he will be inducted into the "46ers" Club (not sure of the actual name) for those hearty souls who've climbed all 46 high peaks in the Adirondacks.  It's quite an accomplishment (I did half of one peak once, and that was it!).  I am, of course, very proud of him.  I'll take pictures tonight and post them soon.  We're staying with friends George and Suzanne, and as a thank-you, I've baked them a cinnamon-swirl coffee cake.  It's cooling now and it came out of the pan beautifully.  In a few minutes I'll add a nice, thick glaze to the top.   You'll see the finished product right here!

Hostess Gift for George and Suzanne 

I had more batter than I needed for my tube pan, so with that I made a mini-loaf cake, chocolate chip walnut.  That smells great as well!

Chocolate Chip Walnut Loaf

So, we're off to Lake Placid.  I hope you enjoy your long weekend, if you have one, and take time to remember just who made this weekend so significant.  God bless them, every one.