In 2008 I lost one of the best people in my life, way too soon. Matt was first a neighbor, and then a dear friend. We had some laughs, drank a few (OK, more than a few) beers, and even fought a time or two even though he could never stay mad at me. Before he left forever he gave me 21 of the greatest gifts - his family.
This year I attended the Sixth Annual Matt Johnson Memorial Softball Tournament (my sixth). I made it work in between work trips, and although the weather was not stellar we had fun. This year I joined the sibling team Blazing Saddles. The saddles are not exactly blazing, but I guarantee we have some great laughs. Although the first win has eluded the purple team for six years, we did score a run!
One of Matt's sisters wrote a great blog about the weekend, and I thought I would share her words because she summed it up pretty good. I'm not one to duplicate efforts.
I will share a few pics from the weekend.
One of the traditions is the Friday night bonfire. The boys usually light something up, pop a few tops, and stay up all night sharing their favorite stories and memories. This year Papa Mike got involved and decided the fire needed a spark, from gasoline. That was before he fired up the tractor to pull out some more kindling to keep the fire burning.
This was the shirt the nieces wore to cheer on the Blazing Saddles.
And, this was nephew Bubba's shirt. I could just hear Matt chuckle. Both shirts are very appropriate for the Blazing Saddles fan club.
Although the weekend is bittersweet it is comforting to see the love and support a small community (and surrounding areas) shows the family and the scholarships the tournament raises to help the local FFA Chapter.
1 comment:
We love this!!!! Especially the pic of the bonfire!!! So happy and proud to have you as a member of our family!!!!! See you soon!!
Papa Mike and Mama Mary
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