Thankful Thursday: Veterans Day!

I don't think many of us can quite understand the real sacrifices of our service men, women and families. It is a lifestyle I, personally, am not accustomed to. I've seen friends' husbands leave their 2 month old baby for 9 months. I've seen a little boy beyond sad that his dad has to "keep leaving" him. One day these babes will understand why their daddy had to leave for a while. Mothers and Fathers kiss their sons or daughters goodbye for an unknown amount of time. Girlfriends,Boyfriends,Wives, and Husbands put their relationships on hold for 9 months, a year... or longer. Your family can be moved all over the country or even to a foreign country. Sometimes those moves happen every year depending on position, promotions, needs of the government.

Those that serve see, experience, and remember things from their times of deployment that we couldn't even think of in our worst nightmares. They are in the most extreme weather conditions, eat food that closely resembles cardboard and sleep on the smallest of cots for months on end. This lifestyle is far from glamorous. It is difficult and challenging yet when asked, they tell us it is the most rewarding career they could have ever chosen.

On this Veterans Day I am thankful for all of those that have served and are currently serving our country. I am thankful that they are willing to go into war zones to keep myself, and those I love, safe.  I am thankful that their families serve right along with them without complaint. I am thankful I live in a country that remains free because of those that put their lives on the line everyday.

Sometimes "thank you" doesn't seem to be enough. Words, cards, baked goods, balloons and celebrations only begin to express how grateful we are for their selfless service.

To everyone who has served, are currently serving, have a family member who is (has) serving... Thank You.