Veteran's Hodgepodge

Today, in honor of Veteran's Day, we salute those who have served and do serve by honoring them with our answers to the questions from Joyce. You can visit her blog, answer the questions on your blog to share with us, and link up with her here.

1. In two or three sentences tell us what Veteran's Day means to you?

Veterans Day is a day to remember and honor the noble sacrifices of those who weren't afraid to submit and serve our country to help defend its freedom and the freedom of others. It is a day for me to remember that many of our men and women have made sacrifices giving up months, years of their young lives separated from their loved ones, and especially the thousands who even gave up their lives to defend freedom. My Dad served in WWII and my uncle died there. My husband served, and many of my cousins and classmates. My nephews are in active service. 

2. What's your favorite film with a patriotic theme woven into the storyline?

Sergeant York. I love Alvin York's story and his sincerity to be a conscientious objector to killing, but then to recognize and respect the need to fight against evil to save lives. He was a very humble man who became a celebrated hero. 

3. Flu shot-yes or no? If you answered no, do you plan to get a flu shot? If not, why not? Have you ever had the flu?

Last year was my first time to have a flu shot since I was about 13. And last year I got one of the worst cases of the flu I can ever remember. Actually, I think that was only the second time I've had the flu. At any rate, my DH and I took the advice of our doctor and had a flu shot again this year. Neither of us want to, but our doctor says it's really, really important that "older" people should have it! I think she is referring to us?) 

4. I've seen lots of people posting pictures of their Christmas trees up and decorated. Many stores have had Christmas on display since well before Halloween. Red cups are back at Starbucks, sans the holiday decor, and that has some people up in arms. What are your thoughts on all the holiday ruckus this second week of November?

It's too early. But I suppose for those who are making money off it, and for the elaborate decorators, they want to make the season last longer. 

Sometimes I think Christians fight the wrong battles. And I can still enjoy a peppermint mocha if we happen to be on a road trip. That is the only time I treat myself to Starbucks. 

5. What 'critter' are you most afraid of encountering unexpectedly?

A snake. 
Why that one? 

Repetitive nightmares of snakes throughout my life and having had a huge snake in the garage and one in my house and another big one in the yard are not my idea of a good time. 

6. Do you like building things?

Not particularly. Maybe if I knew what I was doing and it would serve a good purpose.

What's the last thing you 'built'? 

I helped my DH build a deck for our back yard many years ago. We He did a great job, didn't he?

I also helped put a roof on the church building back in my younger days.

7. In keeping with this month's theme of gratitude...what are you most grateful for that brings beauty to your daily life?

From the dawn

to the setting of the sun

I am so thankful for the natural beauty I see out my window. Every day I see the wide open sky, lovely cloud formations, sometimes the most amazing lightning shows, brilliant sunrises and sunsets, the lake, birds swooping across the sky, and roses in my back yard. 

I find beauty in my daily life in my relationships - with the Lord, my husband, family and friends! I am very thankful for them and they bring light, life and sunshine to my life.

8. Insert your own random thought here.

I am so proud of our grandkids. Here is a pic (which I cropped for privacy reasons because her name was in large block letters on this little flyer from her principal at her school.) Out of over 600 students in the elementary school, they chose to honor our Kate with the Pack Pride Award for outstanding citizenship.

Kate received a letter from the principal stating that she was selected because she demonstrated the character and citizenship traits of someone who goes above and beyond what is expected each day. Her hard work has been recognized, and we are ALL proud.

(We've got our green light on today! Our sweet, ever thoughtful somewhat nutty friend, NanaDiana talked about the green light special right here in her blog.)