My dad is a great fan of the western, which comes naturally since he was a ranch hand in his early years. I have spent many Saturdays watching westerns with my dad much to the chagrin of my mother. I have come to love a good western and as I travel home from Chicago the old familiar phrase of "wagons HO! stick in my mind. A road trip is quite exciting especially when you get to see your son as he steps out on a new phase of life, visit with old friends and family.
You forget that family knows all about you, things that mere friends can never know, and still accept you. In each family there is a keeper of the history, that one person who loves to tell the story that brought us where we are today. My cousin Nadine is that keeper for me. As we walked through her home this last week I found out more about my great-grandparents than I had ever known. The thing that stuck with me was the sweet tone with which she spoke of my great grandmother. I never had the pleasure to meet Grandma Goodman, yet I now have an impression of her that will stay with me all my life. Thanks Nadine!
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Saturday, July 3, 2010
4th of July-Freedom
Today I had the distinct pleasure and pride to watch my son Brandon salute a commanding officer as we crossed the Navy base. I have also watched how other people-strangers-react to his presence. Many have come up to him and shook his hand while thanking him for his service to his country. As tomorrow is the 4th of July his service is even more important. At his graduation the Admiral said that the 691 sailors in front of us were "volunteering" to serve their country. How very special it is to see these young men and women make this choice.
I have had time to talk with Brandon and I know that God has guided him to this career. May God continue to guide him each step of the way.
To all who have served our country and to all who will serve I thank you. God bless America!!!
Friday, July 2, 2010
All Grown Up
You know that your job as a parent is pretty much done when you see one of your children graduate from Navy Boot Camp. It was quite impressive to see our son Brandon march into the review hall at Navy RTC. He did not look like the young man I sent to RTC. We have spent two days listening to all he has accomplished these past eight weeks. I am proud of the man he has become and even prouder to see how he interacts with strangers who thank him for his service. May God be his final commander and may he continue on this path.
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