Thank You, Husband and Brave People!

It's pretty much a given that I tear up at the National Anthem, anything relating to our armed forces, the United States in general, and Extreme Makeover, Home Addition.

I have always and will continue to be grateful for the men and women who serve our country. What an amazing thing to literally offer your LIFE as a sacrifice for other's safety and freedom. One of these heroes is The Husband. He served for four years in the Marine Corps during the Gulf War and most days does not remind me of a veteran with his cell phone and MP3 player. The first thought that enters my mind when you say "veteran" is the cute little guys with the caps that march in the parades while their wives cook up chicken potpie at the VFW Friday night dinners. But, let me tell you how I know The Husband served his country.....

1. He will not sit, talk or otherwise be distracted for anything remotely patriotic...Pledge of Allegiance, National Anthem, God Bless America, voting, etc....

2. He is very respectful of authority and honors people whether they are above him, below him or equal to him in authority.

3. He is a problem solver and a team player. I know this is starting to sound like a resume, but let me tell you, even I cannot understand the bond that is formed when these people serve together with blood, sweat and tears for little pay and recognition for the enormity of what they do.

4. His ducks are in a row. Don't mess with his ducks. Only God can do that.

So, as I toot his horn and others like him, I'm all about Memorial Day Weekend, the official kick off to summer, but in between scarfing down the hot dogs, I plan to thank a few veterans, as well as the Lord, for the freedom I enjoy today.

And, that last sentence had entirely too many commas in it! Sorry. I'm a grammar teacher's worst nightmare, ain't i?