Veteran's Day

Wednesday, November 11th, Veteran's Day..... I opened my garage at 7:30 a.m. .... ready to leave for work and I saw it flying there..... and saw it flying in the neighbors yard next door and then each of the neighbors' yards down the street and around the block..... tears filled my eyes.....and I remembered.... I remembered how blessed I am that my veteran son is alive and well and most likely, at this hour, still sleeping next to his beautiful new wife, living the life I always prayed he would have.

I am so proud of my son, Brandon, who sacrificed his time to serve our country and the people of Iraq. He left his family, friends and comforts of home to live for months in the sand and heat, living in a tent, sleeping on a cot, listening to the never ending mortar fire, showering rarely and briefly, convoying across dangerous, dusty roads. All this at a time in his life when he should have been young and carefree. But he was called to serve his country and he went. He came home for a time. And then he volunteered to go again. He served honorably and well both times. His leaders highly praised him and his uniform is highly decorated.

I am grateful for all who have served and all who now serve. I am thankful beyond words for my freedom and for my opportunity to live in this great country.