To my three favorite veterans---that I love dearly

Happy 4^th of July!

Watching the fireworks on the 4^th makes me reflect on how blessed we are to have been born in America and even more grateful to the men and women who serve to protect our freedom.  To my three favorite veterans (and to all the others) I give my most sincere thanks.  Thank you for your service.  Thank you.

To My Father:

I couldn’t ask for a better Dad.  I rarely remember you ever talking about your time in Viet Nam.  Hearing you recall being spat on when returning deeply saddens me every time.  I hope that the soldiers of today never have to go through such an experience.  No matter your stance on war, our solders deserve nothing but our thanks and respect.  Their sacrifice is what gives us the freedom to live in a country where you can disagree with what decisions are made.

Dad, thank you for sharing your musical talents with the world.  I remember many an evening dancing to the song you wrote to help me learn to spell my name.  You are genuine in everything you do----and aren’t hesitant to call a spade a spade.  Thank you for instilling the same in me.  Knowing right from wrong and being willing to speak up about it is a gift that came straight from you.

To My Father-In-Law:

 What a character you are and thank you for raising Brenton to be the man that he is today.  Thank you for your service to this country in the Marines and on the Police Force.  From what I can tell, some of those most trying moments in life is what has given you drive to live life with pure joy for the time we are given.  I hardly ever see you let petty things get you down.  You are so quick to find the joy in the moment and it is contagious.  You may try to seem tough, but your kindness gives way every time.  Thank you.

To My Husband: 

You mean more and more to me each day.  I am so thankful for your persistence in everything that you do, your strong morals, and your kind heart.  Your road in life has not been easy.  There has been so much that you have had to overcome and yet you never let it stop you from persevering or make you bitter.  You keep diligently plugging along and you carve your own new path when the road is blocked.  I am beyond grateful and lucky to have you for my husband.  Love you!

Yes, I fell for a man in uniform J.