There's No Place Like Home

Sorry about my wonky watermark, and apparently Photoshop wasn't interested in watermarking the other two images...maybe it's smarter than I am and realized that I hadn't downsized it properly! ;-)

Today, as I snapped these pictures of the bluebirds in my backyard who were busy trying to make a place to call home for the winter in our bluebird box, I couldn't help but think of what this day really means to me.

I've mentioned before that politics are not something I very often discuss, because I feel we all have biases, personal reasons, and ideology that shapes what we think about various things from religion to politics.  So like the old saying goes, I think it's best to steer clear of those discussions unless you are with close and very open minded friends, but certainly not in a public forum, unless you don't mind the mud slinging that ensues.

But as I watched these sweet creatures making their nest, I couldn't help but think that no matter where you live, who you vote for, or what you believe, we all want a place that we can call home.  And as I thought that, my mind wandered and began to think about all of the men and women who throughout history have sacrificed, some during wartime, others not, for something they believed in.  Something that often took them, or continues to take them so far from the places they call home.

Today I will honor those people by wearing a red poppy and hoping that for those who lost their lives so far from home, or for those who are now so far from home, that they will take some comfort in knowing that at least for today, they will be remembered.  Happy Veterans Day!

A Special Thank You

Photo by John Richards

For many of us, tomorrow is Veteran's Day, also known as Remembrance Day.  It is a time to remember those who serve, and those who gave their lives in service to their country.  

The picture above is of my friend George and his beloved dog Hummel.  George will be 99 years old this December and he's also a WWII veteran!!  He fought in the Pacific theater during the war and was in the thick of the action during the time he served!  Like so many from his generation, he is humble about his role, and speaks of his heroic actions as though they were nothing very special at all!

George is an amazing man, who has led an equally amazing life!  He still drives, gardens, and spends time training his dog in obedience each day.  A year ago, George and his dog Hummel participated in an obedience competition where Hummel received the highest obedience designation that a dog can achieve.  

George is a true American hero, and this Veteran's Day I hope we will all take a moment to honor the men and women who have served, and those who continue to serve!  Many in my family have served their country with pride, and I know the sacrifices can be so very great!