Memorial Day...May we never forget.

On this Memorial Day, may we reflect on those that have made the ultimate sacrifice to defend this country we live in. May we always remember if it were not for those protecting our freedom, we may not have that freedom and our lives would be quite different. To the members of the military, "Thank You" for all you have done for ALL OF US. Your sacrifices are not small, but know that we recognize and appreciate everything you have given up to spend many nights away.

To our family that serves or has served...We could not be prouder.

To Kris...You followed your calling to serve not only for your daughter, your wife, your family and friends, but your entire country and I am so proud of you for that!

To the families who had love ones never return...They will NEVER be forgotten. It is because of your loved one that I have the life of freedom I have. I am for ever indebted to them. May God Bless you all!

"And I'm proud to be an American,

where at least I know I'm free.

And I won't forget the men who died,

who gave that right to me.

And I gladly stand up

next to you and defend her still today.

'Cause there ain't no doubt I love this land,

God Bless the USA."

~Lee Greenwood

Uncle Brandon and Aunt Emily

While Brandon and Emily were home for their break, Sophia enjoyed some fun moments with them! :-)

A lesson for everyone...

This morning Sophia and I (along with many other members of Emmanuel Lutheran of Greenvine) had the distinct privledge of attending the morning worship service at the Brenham State Supported Living Center. The worship service itself is not much different than most other small churches in our area, but it's the residents that attend that make it a truly awesome experience.

My mother has worked out there my entire life. I have never know any different than to hug, shake hands and give pats on the backs to these truly inspiring individuals. They sing, they dance, they clap, they stand....they celebrate GOD and all he has given them. In some ways, they celebrate and thank him better than some of us that can speak fluently, function clearly and behave without disruptions. They are not worried about what others will think, but only about celebrating their spiritual beliefs. Its amazing and inspiring.

Some of them are pushed to the service in their wheel chairs, some are transported via van and others make their weekly walk up to the chapel on their own, but they all manage to find their spot in God's home. This morning I sat in the chapel with new friends all around me. I must have been asked ten times by them, "will you be my friend?" All I can say is "Wow." I sit here worried about things out of my control and they were worried about finding new friends at church and singing their hearts out.


I think we all left inspired and full of thanks. I know I am thankful for the life I have, but also very thankful that there is a place in this world for these individuals to live and be happy. May God Bless them all!

After we finished with worship, our church family planted flowers at some of the homes there, while the children played and prepared for a picnic lunch! What an awesome experience!