I wish they had a "like" button here. I would use it often!
Thank you so much for your kind comments. I am really taken back by your kind words. Keith and I are both so appreciative of all those who served both our countries, as well as the free world.
As I mentioned in my blog today - freedom comes with a price tag. As social media grows, we see more and more how other governments in the world disregard human rights. Citizens don't have free will or abilities to live their lives as they choose. So many of us take these rights for granted. I grew up in the '60's and was only vaguely aware of this thing called "the Vietnam war". I remember glancing at the news at night and thinking little about what was going on. It never really registered what happened there until much later in my life as I grew into an adult.
The best part of this 'giveaway' we are having (which was Keith's suggestion - he is the one who drew the pattern too) is that I am reading stories from those who serve and learning about their service to their various countries. Each story makes me more grateful for their time and sacrifice so that we ALL can live better lives. What an unexpected bonus for me!
I am over 50 years old now, and I see the younger people in our countries that grew up knowing nothing but freedom. I sometimes feel that they take this freedom for granted and forget about those who fought so hard to obtain and maintain it. I hope that changes soon. I hope that with communication being what it is, awareness is raised and more people begin to appreciate what privileges were given to them - only by the sacrifice of others.
Thanks again for all your kind words. You are a wonderful group and I am proud to be among you!
<3 Sheila