Day of Memorials - Lost or Fallen brothers and sisters

As this Memorial Day comes to a close, I wanted to take a moment and thank all of my brothers and sisters who have chosen to serve their country, communities, and fellow Americans. As a veteran of the Armed Forces, it is important to me that our country continues to stand strong and free. We couldn't be the nation we are today without the awesome love that comes from the ultimate sacrifices that are given everyday throughout the world from our soldiers. So, to the past, present, and future troops, "hoo-ya" and, to those of you that are currently serving (stateside and overseas)... I would like to thank you and your families for their sacrifices.

Sweet Nothingness

Occasionally, my mind music deserves a break. Now that I am officially finished taking graduate classes, and teaching seems to be winding down, I am able to give my mind that much needed aaahhhh that is so deserves. After church today, I was sitting on my porch swing, and realized that I was not thinking about the next paper that was due. I was not thinking about what was planned for my own students this week, nor was I thinking about where I was in my life. Honest to Pete, when I realized what I was thinking about...I laughed right out loud. I was watching my dog pant and wondering where all of that saliva comes from. Seriously, that is the truth! I LOVED IT! I quit laughing long enough to become aware that I didn't have anything major to think about and it felt GREAT! I took in one of those sighs that lets everything from your lungs to your toenails breathe. Here's the thing. I really don't know where the saliva from a panting dog comes from. I suppose if I were a true scholar, I would look it up...but I don't really care that much. I will continue to wonder about it though, because that is what sweet nothingness feels like and I am not ready to move onto the next big thing.

When I have to begin thinking again, I will think about the fact that my son has a job now, or how my brothers and their families are doing, or when Alex will be leaving (which is not going to go over well with any of us), or I guess I could think about summer time plans. But right now, I am perfectly content with the simple things in life. I don't want to think about those things...not today and not right now.

The birds are chirping, the sun is out (thank the Lord), and life is good.