Thank you, and always remembered.

Today is a special day in this country, sure there are picnics, parties, friends, and food.  What I am really talking about though is Memorial Day, not the party, the memories.  Taking time to pause and thank those who have served.  Taking a minute or two of your day to remember those who have died protecting your freedoms. When you see a soldier today, tomorrow, or any day make sure you thank them.  You don't have do make a scene, you don't have to scream it from the rafters.  You can just pick up the tab when you see them out to breakfast with their families.  You can offer them a smile and a coffee when you see them in an airport decked out in their fatigues.  A simple Hello and thank you can go a long way in healing a troubled soldiers heart.  My brother Andy is now out of the Marine Corp, but he will always be a Marine.  He has seen and experienced things that no human ever should.  He has lost soldiers around him, many of whom were friends.  He doesn't show it, but I know my brother and I know he carries that close to his heart.  He is a stronger and better man than I.  I am profoundly and deeply thankful for everything these brave men and women have done for us.  Past, present, and future soldiers, you have my deepest gratitude and thanks.  This Memorial Day when you hang your flags, don your read white and blue, and fire up your grills, remember to take a minute, bow your head, and thank those who have served.  There is a soldier out there that needs to hear that everything is going to be ok, and that they have your support.

I hope everyone has a Happy, Safe, and FREE Memorial Day.

Two of my favorite prints that I have hung around the house: