Memorial Day...

Memorial Day is a little different for me these days. Yes, I think about my great-grandfather who served and is now buried at the Pensacola Naval Air Station. But, everything seems to hit much closer to home now that my brother Adam is serving in the Air Force. Adam is not overseas or anything; he is still training as a Flight Navigator. But, I am so proud of him. He is completely committed to what he is doing. He is enthusiastic even though he knows the risks involved. He is prepared to die for his country. And, while that scares me, I know he is doing what he was created to do.

The other day Buck & I were watching Behind Enemy Lines (which I have seen before), and it seemed to be a little more intense since Adam is training to be a flight navigator just like Owen Wilson's character. I was more in-tune to to the details of what he did, and rooted for him like never before.

Then one of the pastors at our church, David Putman, got up to speak this weekend & told of his son in Afghanistan. He is so proud of his son serving, but you can hear in his voice how much he misses him. I now know I must begin praying now for my brother, long before he is sent to defend our country.

We spent our day yesterday with Dan & Renee Weber. Dan's sister is in the Navy, so we talked some about how different it is when it is your family. We had a blast there. First, we played a super-long game of Cities & Knights. Buck and I are really excited that we have found people here who enjoy playing games, and they happen to be really cool! Then we just hung out, talked, and ate great food the rest of the evening.

Anyway, Memorial Day is different for me than it used to be. I am so thankful for the freedom I have everyday. I am thankful for the blessings God has poured on my life. And, I am thankful for the men & women who are fighting as I type this to protect this freedom.