Bits & Pieces

On Labor Day this year, we attended the celebration of the 100th anniversary of the Lauckner Farm. There were 120 people who signed the guestbook. Those who were there exchanged memories of the Lauckner family from over the years. It may have even been the first time some of these memories were discussed.

As we were on our way home, I marveled at the number of 100th anniversaries that have and are planned to take place in this area. Last year, Wagner Farms celebrated 100 years. Several years ago so did Our Redeemer Lutheran Church in Nashua. This year, Bethel Lutheran Grain Church did as well and on Sept. 24, Queen of Angels Catholic Church in Nashua will have their 100th anniversary celebration.

Remembering these events brought the thought of the strength of the people involved and their ancestors before them. For a farm or church or business to exist 100 years takes hard work, determination, resilience and a love for what the people are doing.

The past few weeks I’ve been watching documentaries on nature. I’ve learned a lot about our planet and the oceans. Several times one of my grandsons has watched some of them with me. And at times has commented, “Oh, we studied this in school!”

His statement made me happy to see how he had retained what he’d studied. And his excitement at seeing something he’d learned about brought me joy.

Last week, I went to the first home volleyball game for the Nashua/Opheim rivals. Although they lost three games in a row and thus ended session, I was impressed with not only the talent the home team displayed, but by their teamwork and how hard they went after a win.

I was also impressed with the enthusiasm and support of the people in the bleachers. Their cheering on the team helps give the athletes an even stronger determination to win knowing they have the community’s support.

Last week, a phone call from my brother really made my day. He will be arriving soon for a visit. We try to visit with each other in person every year. If I am unable to get to southern Iowa where he lives, he comes to Montana. Sometimes our visit don’t cover many days but the important part is that we are able to be with each other.

For me, it is so important to spend as much time as possible with family. Even when, as with some, a person’s family is all close by. A phone call, a note card, having a meal together, all contribute towards strengthening family bonds. Keep sharing your smiles and they’ll come back to you.