A Day of Memorial

I am a patriot. I love and appreciate all those who have traded their lives for my freedom. I'm so thankful for those who continue to serve this great country that I call home. As an Army Wife, I proudly stand beside my soldier. I know the difference between love and duty, and I respect his decision to defend any who stand beneath our flag.

What is a memorial, exactly?

A memorial is something designed to help us remember a person, place or event.

Well, that's a pretty broad explanation. Basically, anything created specifically to honor something can be considered a memorial. Anything that gives you cause to remember....

Memorial Day is a day set aside to remember our fallen service men and women...those who have defended our freedom. This is not just a free long weekend.

I ask that you take time to reflect on the sacrifice that has been made to make our country great. Remember, not only the men and women who have died in service, but those who have returned home...not fully whole in some way or another. Remember our military members who suffer from PTSD and Traumatic Brain Injury. Remember the families and spouses who said goodbye without knowing if they would see their loved one again.

And please remember to be sensitive. Memorial Day is not a happy day for most military widows and family members of the fallen. Instead of saying "Happy Memorial Day," try "thank you for your sacrifice." I promise it will be appreciated.

Happy Birthday to me!

Some days I forget that I'm thousands of miles from home. I seem to have a knack for ignoring it, actually. Most of the time, I'm happy regardless of my location. I suck it up and push forward...pull myself up by my proverbial bootstraps. I'm an Army Wife, right? No time to complain....just keep moving.

It's not always easy, but we make it. We Kentucky girls come from some tough bloodlines. It's amazing where faith and determination can take you.

Holidays are the toughest, though. I've never really been one who cares a ton about my birthday....it's kinda just another day for me....but for the past two birthdays, I've been truly touched by the outpouring of kindness I've been shown.

I just wanted to take a minute to say thank you to everyone who has taken time out of your life to wish us well or just say "hi." You have no idea how much your support means to Nate and I. We appreciate you all so very much. You make being away from home easier on us and our families. Thank you, and God bless.