Friday Photo Flashback

This being the first Friday Photo Flashback of the New Year, I went looking for a New Year’s Picture. It seems like I was always doing something for New Year’s Eve. Usually, we’d hang out at the VFW hall with my folks. There was always cheap drinks, good music and good people.

When I got married to my ex, I recall spending one NYE at a Mason Lodge. It was right downtown and they did fireworks at night. There were a few years where we’d get a block of 3-4 hotel rooms. My ex’s sisters would each get a room for their family. We’d all bring a dish to pass and play board games. When the hotel thing became too expensive, one of the sisters hosted. There were plenty of game nights as I recall.

One year, my best friend Jeff was dating a mutual friend of my sister-in-law. So he came over that NYE. Everyone was to wear one piece pajamas that night. It was ridiculous, but fun. They had this Can-Jam game that we played in their basement.

I had quite a few photos from those various events to choose from. However, I found one that I treasure, despite the way I look. The photo was probably taken NYE 1996 or 1997.

This photo of my mom and I was taken at the VFW Hall. I am sure that my dad was DJing the party. If I had to guess, my Uncle Tom was probably there, as well as many of the other veterans. These parties were so much fun.

I love this picture because we both look happy as ever! I see that my mom is wearing what we called a “Brooks and Dunn” shirt. My dad was probably wearing one, too. They were big into line dancing at the time. I’m sure there were plenty of those played that night. I have “gone country” in the picture, too. You can see that by the silly “tie” I am wearing.

The simple joy of being together is on both of our faces. This is how I always remember my mom. Healthy, laughing and smiling. It is a perfect capture!