London Bridge.
In August 2023, I embarked on a memorable road trip with my oldest granddaughter, Kaylee. Our journey took us from lower Arizona to Reno, Nevada, with a delightful detour to visit a historical gem—the London Bridge in Lake Havasu City, Arizona.
This stop wasn’t just a random sightseeing decision but one deeply rooted in a childhood memory of mine. I vividly remember being in the fifth grade and participating in a school fundraiser for the London Bridge. Though my recollection of the specific purpose—whether it was modifications or construction—has faded over the years, what stands out is the excitement of contributing. Every Friday, my classmates and I would bring in our milk money, lunch money, or spare change to support the effort. I always brought quarters for the cause, feeling a sense of pride in being part of something bigger than myself.
As we approached the London Bridge, I shared this story with Kaylee. Her enthusiasm was contagious, peppering me with countless questions about my childhood and the bridge itself. Inspired by her curiosity, I decided to make our stop even more special by weaving in a touch of grandfatherly embellishment.
While exploring the area, we admired iconic sights like the classic London phone booth and the oversized chair. I then pointed out one of the foundational rocks near the bridge, declaring it the very rock I “purchased” as a child. Kaylee was captivated by the idea that her grandfather had a tangible connection to this historic structure.
To this day, Kaylee fondly recounts our adventure and proudly tells others how her grandfather helped build the London Bridge by purchasing “that rock.” Moments like these remind me of the joy in sharing stories—both real and a little embellished—and the power of creating memories that will be cherished for generations.
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