July 2, 2008

Happy Birthday USA


I come from a very patriotic family.  My mom serves weekly at the USO.  Both of my grandfathers served in the armed forces during WWII, and now my brother serves in the Navy. 

 I've learned firsthand the sacrifices that our service men and women make everyday for my freedom.  Not just going to scary places and seeing the unspeakable, but leaving family behind; missing holidays; living a sometimes lonely life; being ready for the call, at any time.

This week I send a special thank you to my brother and all those who serve alongside him. Thank you for your often thank-less job.  Thank you for not just doing it, but doing it with a great attitude.  Your sacrifice touches me and my family daily.  Your hard work and endurance will touch my children and grandchildren.  

Even though the news tries to portray you as dissatisfied workers doing a job you don't want to do, I've come to understand that you are doing what you love for a country that you love.  While your job isn't easy, you are proud of what you do and who you do it for.  

That makes me so PROUD of you.  

So, on this week that we celebrate everything American, I want you to know that I celebrate you and your comrades.  Even though your names may be lost over generations of time, your honor and service to this country will remain with greats like Washington, Lincoln and Jefferson.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY AMERICA!

22 comments:

Anonymous said...

Well said! Happy Independence Day.

Brandee :-)

Heather Anne said...

I really am glad you participated in FABULOUS FLAG-FLYING FOURTH - otherwise I may never have found you! Your home is so much like the ones I love to drive by in our neighborhood - so patriotic and pristine! It's lovely to meet you, and I've enjoyed visiting your blog!

Rmomof3 said...

Happy Independence Day! Beautiful pictures!
Sweet blessings!
Renee

Kellie said...

Wonderful thoughts... didn't realize you had so many in your family who have given so much for our country. Thank you just doesn't seem enough. Your words were great.

kari and kijsa said...

Happy Early Fourth...we are having a flag post at our blog to celebrate the Fourth!

Have a blessed and wonderful day!

smiles, kari & kijsa

B. said...

Beautiful flags and beautiful post! I am also going to try that recipe. Sounds great!

vintage girl at heart said...

What a wonderful and heartfelt post!!

Shannon said...

Happy 4th to you too!! Thanks for the b-day wishes. :) Sadly, Oops is not a chain and there is only one. Everyone loves that clock!! :)

{oc cottage} said...

A-men!

M ^..^

Anonymous said...

My thanks to your family for the service and sacrifices made to protect our freedom.

Happy Fourth.

The Summer Kitchen Girls said...

Nothing like Our flag, buntings and picket fences to say Happy Fourth! Just need to add some apple pie!
Enjoy the holiday,
Karla & Karrie

kari and kijsa said...

What a fabulous post! A big thank you to your family and brother! Kari's husband served in the Navy during the first gulf war and the sacrifice is amazing, along with great pride in our great country.
We appreciate so much all the men and women in service for our country-past, present, and future! Because of them, we can fly our flags high!
Thanks so much for joining in the parade!

Happy Independence Day,
kari & kijsa

Anonymous said...

Beautiful post. My family are very patriotic as well. I am so glad we have a wonderful country to live in.
Nice post.

Go USA, jeanne

PJ said...

And please, thank your brother for me too!!! My Dad, uncles and grandfather were vets in WWI, WWII, Vietnam and Korea. None in either Gulf War. Our service men and women (and their families) do not get thanks enough! So thanks, thanks, thanks!!! From me.

A Hint of Home said...

Your pictures are gorgeous! I wish the best for your brothers. Mine served as well.
Happy 4th.

Pearl Maple said...

Ok your last post caught my eye, we could swap very funny stories on that one & love live PB cups! Where would we be without them?

Followed your link from K & K and enjoyed visiting your blog. Thanks for adding to the fun.

Have a great weekend.

Decor To Adore said...

Great sentiments! Happy 4th to you.
Purchase of the day made me laugh out loud.

Terri Steffes said...

Beautiful post. Nothing like hearing about one's service to the country to make you feel so American. Thanks for sharing with us!

Trixi said...

My husband is also one of those "dissatisfied workers" who loves his job!!! The majority of these men are proud to serve their country, although you would never know it by watching CNN. I also thank your brother and all of those serving with him and your mom. The USO is an amazing organization.
Blessings,
Trixi

Heidi said...

Absolutely wonderful message today! I couldn't agree more! I hope everyone today, on this July 4th is able to read your post!...Your family & brother sound like proud Americans!...I'll be back to visit again!...Heidi xo

Mary Isabella and Kiley too! said...

Whishing you and your family a blessed and fun 4th....Mary

Toknowhim said...

Hi,

We have a common friend... Mrs. Mary Gillis :) I blog and she told me to hop over to your blog to visit. I love the house that was decorated above...beautiful. Feel free to stop over at my blog anytime. If you are Mary's friend, than I know you have to be a great friend :)

I will be copying the recipe for that salad on your blog. I love that one...

Blessings!!