Today is a holiday for us in the United States and I think we often forget what Memorial Day is all about...which is REALLY ironic. We all get excited because we don't have to go to work/school and we can sleep in and we get to eat barbecue, but let's not forget what today is all about.

Today, we, firstly, remember all the men and women who have given their lives in service for this country...for all of us...and for the freedom and liberty of certain countries around the world. I have a brother and dear friend who have both lost brothers-in-arms over there and I know today must be difficult for them in that sense. My thoughts and prayers go out to you both and to the families of your lost friends.

Secondly, we remember those who are still serving in the military. They daily sacrifice things we take for granted and I, for one, really appreciate them. Like what? The right to make your own decisions on some things, the right to spend time with your family every day, the right to wear what you want, the right to say what you want (all the time), the right to settle down, the right to get fat (hahaha...good thing I'm not in the military :-P), and many many more. There are also thousands of our men and women fighting overseas in a variety of places, putting their lives in danger right now. Philip, I know you're returning next month, but don't think we've stopped praying for your safety.

And finally, and often forgotten, the families of those who are serving in the military. Being the daughter of a man who served in the military, I know that the families of those in the military make a sacrifice, as well. Spouses marry their men/women knowing full well they will go many months at a time without seeing their brave spouses and they live their lives while waiting for them to come home; crying themselves to sleep some nights; raising their children as a single parent, essentially; not knowing the exact date of leave/returning from deployment until the last minute; being in charge of maintaining base housing. Children don't get a choice in the matter, which is difficult for them. Moving from base to base, not having the opportunity, really, to make life-long friends, having to be the new kid all the time, and many other things like that really suck...and I know how you feel. Thank you, famillies.

I know this has been a long post, but it is something I feel really strongly about. So don't forget why today is called "Memorial Day." Thank those in your lives that you know that are serving in some way today.