November Eleventh, Two Thousand Eleven

Well, well, here we are again, on another anomaly of the Gregorian calendar: 11/11/11.

Heck, I wanted to post this a 11:11:11 AM on 11/11/11, but work got in the way, as usual.

One more year of this next December, then we'll have to wait until 3003 to start all over again (03/03/03). Hold my place in line, won't you?

In addition, it's also Veteran's Day, where most folk take a few moments out of their busy schedule to honor family, friends, and loved ones who have or are serving in our Armed Forces.

My father served in the US Army Air Corps during WWII, spending most of his time stationed at Langford Lodge outside Belfast, Northern Ireland. While there, he met my mom on a blind date at a USO show. . .

Coming of age during the Viet Nam era, between a medical condition and my student deferment, I managed to miss that quagmire. Several of my classmates from High School never made it back. . .

Currently, my son is following his grandfather's footsteps, as Eric's currently serving in the USAF, now stationed in Colorado after a five-year stint at Spangdahlem AFB in Germany. And just like his grandfather, he met his bride overseas, altho Sarah was raised in Park Rapids, MN. They didn't meet on a blind date - my daughter Colleen holds that honor this time round - but served together on the base's Honor Guard (Sarah's also USAF).

So as the day's activities wind down, and late-evening reflection settles in, I'm thankful that so many gave so much so that the rest of us can sleep peacefully tonight.

Thanks, Dad! And Thanks, Eric & Sarah, for carrying on.

Love,
Dad