Military
This morning (yesterday morning) our school had a Veteran's Day Chapel. The entire elementary school came together to honor our military, past and present. Family members of students and members of our church, most all of them in uniform, stood across the front of the sanctuary as the song for their branch of service played; we even had someone from the Coast Guard. It was quite moving especially when a precious gentleman, wearing his uniform from World War II, saluted our flag as the band played the Star Spangled Banner. There was also a time when students brought forward envelopes full of letters and pictures to be delivered to soldiers in Iraq and Afghanistan. Over 700 were collected! Think of the impact that can make.
We too often forget, at least I'm guilty of forgetting, the sacrifice our military and their families make; even after my brother-in-law served I need to be reminded from time to time. Freedom is something we all expect but forget what it takes to keep it. So, today (yesterday) I'm thankful for the men and women who gave and risk their lives just so I can enjoy life as I know it, our military heroes. What are you thankful for today?
Because chapel is held first thing in the morning, I had to get up much earlier than normal. I am not, I repeat, I am not a morning person! But, if I wanted to be there I had to drag myself out of bed which is so hard for me to do. So, today (yesterday) I gave up my beauty sleep in order to attend an all-out American celebration. You may roll your eyes but for me it was a sacrifice. What have you done to give today?
Vacation
I love to go away on an adventure to a place I've never been before. Even going somewhere over and over again, like the beach or mountains, that gets me away from the every day for a while is great too. I'm fortunate to have been able to go to lots of different places. Some of my favorites are Israel, Jamaica, Brazil, Guatemala, Las Vegas, Williamsburg, and Disney World. Granted, these weren't all vacations. Brazil was a mission trip and Guatemala was more of a pick up trip to end the long journey to our son. But they felt like vacations being that far from home.
Vacationing is not something I like to do alone, though. As long as I have someone else with me that can help read maps and drive I'm much more comfortable. It's also more fun to make memories with a loved one.
So, today I'm thankful for vacations, small or large, far away or close by. What are you thankful for today?
For giving today I was simply a mom. I cooked, I washed clothes, and I cuddled. So, today I did the job I wanted for so many years. What have you done to give today?
