Happy Memorial Day!

When I think of Memorial Day I cannot help but think of family get togethers, BBQ, swimming in the pool and watermelon. However, the most important thing that my father instilled in me is the importance of patriotism and recognizing the true meaning of Memorial Day. He taught me to be thankful for all of the men and women who have served in the armed forces. He also taught us that it isn't something we should just remember on Memorial Day but every day that we are able to practice the freedoms that we have in America.

I also will forever be grateful for my PePaw Chron who served in WWII. Every time I think of this holiday I am also reminded of the years he spent away from my grandmother serving our country. In my heart he is a true American Hero! He flew the American Flag in his yard for as long as I can remember, not just on the 4th of July, Veterans Day or Memorial Day, but year round. I also think it's funny how when we recognize the armed forces on holidays they are so humble and will even tell you that they do not need an applause or any kind of recognition because they proudly served our country because they wanted to and because they love America. However, you let a baseball player hit a homerun or break some kind of record and they act like they have saved the world and beat their chest and demand to be in the lime light and media to be recognized. It's also funny how athletes make more money than the men and women who are putting their lives in harms way every day to protect you and I and allow us to continue to have the freedoms that we so often take for granted in America. (Yikes! I think I am my Father's daughter.)

So... today I say thank you to all of those who not only serve our country or have served, but to the families who are doing without right now while their relatives are serving. Also, to the people who have been wounded or lost their lives fighting for our freedom I appreciate the sacrifices you and your family's have made and I will forever be grateful.

Remember the Lord Said "Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13