Two Pins

Dave and I have just returned from the weekend we have looked forward to all year.  Tribute to the Troops riders visited seven Gold Star families across Minnesota.  Although this weekend is full of emotion, not all of it is bad.  The support and love we give and receive goes a long way in our healing. 

It was only two years ago this great group came into our lives, standing on our front lawn, proclaiming, "We will never forget Curtis."  They keep that promise to us and to all the families they have touched.  This year, we visited a family on the same block we live on.  How strange that two visits not only in one city, but on the very same street.  As I was packing for the trip, I wanted to place our Honor and Remember flag on our front window so that the riders who found the neighborhood familiar could pick out our home. 

Backing up a few weeks, I need to explain that I had finally decided to go through some of Curtis' things.  For some reason the time felt right and I found it actually very pleasant.  Many of the things were organized before he moved out of the house, and the remaining items were things he could have used when he was ready.  It brought back memories of the pack rat collector he was, who needs a gallon size bag of rubber bands?  

So I was looking for the flag, and in the drawer I found two pins I had not given any thought to when I found them among the scads of trinkets in Curtis' stash.  Two eagle pins.  One larger and more masculine looking, and the other half the size and dainty.  It's as if they were meant for Dave and I to wear on this years ride, he would be with us. 

Unfortunately mine broke as I tried to place it on the heavy leather.  Of course I was initially disappointed, but whenever I saw Dave's pin  throughout the weekend I thought of mine in my pocket.  There is no need to stay upset over such trivial things.  Curtis was with us.