ANZAC Day. On this day each year we remember again those who gave their lives for their country and for our freedom. On this day we are again reminded of the privileges we enjoy because of the sacrifices they made. On this day we are thankful once again for our loved ones who returned home, and remember with sadness and humility the thousands who didn't.
This ANZAC Day we didn't go to the Dawn Service or make ANZAC Biscuits. We had experienced loss of sleep for other reasons and [selfishly perhaps] elected to stay beneath the blankets and cuddle with The Most Charming Grandsons #1, #2 and #3 rather than get up in the predawn (although that happened earlier in the weekend - but, again, for a different reason).
That doesn't mean we didn't remember or reflect. One of the advantages we acknowledge is the freedom to be with family in this beautiful country.
For some in our family, ANZAC Day provided an opportunity for a four-day weekend. DH and I took leave and Son#3 and family, and Son#4 and family, came home for the weekend. This was the first time we had seen The Most Charming Grandsons #1 and #2 since Christmas, and only the second time we had seen The Most Charming Grandson #3 since the same time. All have grown so much since we last saw them.
Son#1 and family were able to join with us for some of the weekend, and so we had a full house at times. Incredible to think now as DH and I sit in our living room engrossed in our separate pastimes, that I was often heard to comment over the weekend on the smallness of our house (rain didn't help the matter). With everyone now gone, it suddenly seems too big for just the two of us.
But family means trips out and picnics and arguments over board games and Lego creations and stories and fun. These are just a sample of photos from the weekend.
My Mother-in-law was able to join us for afternoon tea on Sunday. Although now ninety-six, she still enjoys time with the younger members of the family. This year she reminded us again of how my Father-in-law had always pulled out his medals the night before ANZAC Day and shown his children. He would also talk about going to the Dawn Service, but apparently when ANZAC Day rolled around he was sound asleep! Makes me feel a little better about not going this year.
A significant link with ANZAC Day is that The Most Charming Grandson #2's middle name is that of his great-grandfather who served in WWI. An incredible loving father to his eight children and their spouses, and a wonderful grandfather, I am thankful that he returned safely to his family. Although injured, he recovered. At least physically.
He would have been proud to have had a great-grandson named after him and he would have enjoyed the antics of all his great-grandchildren.
Perhaps there is no better way to close ANZAC Day than to prayerfully consider the last two verses of our National Anthem:
Let our love for Thee increase,
May Thy blessings never cease,
Give us plenty, give us peace,
God defend our free land.
From dishonour and from shame,
Guard our country's spotless name,
Crown her with immortal fame,
God defend New Zealand.
May our mountains ever be
Freedom's ramparts on the sea,
Make us faithful unto Thee,
God defend our free land.
Guide her in the nations' van,
Preaching love and truth to man,
Working out Thy glorious plan,
God defend New Zealand.
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