Another Memorial Day weekend is in the history books. Up here in New Hampshire the weather was wonderful. My heart goes out to those folks who are contending with tornadoes and floods and torrential rains in the south, particularly in Texas. My prayers go out for them as well.
Today being Wednesday, there is another series of questions from our hostess, Joyce from "From This Side of the Pond." I hope you enjoy this week's edition. Better yet, visit Joyce's blog and join in on the fun.
1. Did you do anything 'memorable' this past weekend?
Our church Small Group got together Sunday evening and shared a meal of cheeseburgers, salad, potato chips, cubed watermelon, and ice cream novelties. We always have a good time when we get together.
2. Ronald Reagan is quoted as saying-
"Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. We didn't pass it to our children in the bloodstream. It must be fought for, protected, and handed on for them to do the same."
Your thoughts? Do you somehow acknowledge and appreciate the freedoms you enjoy? Did your upbringing contribute to that sense of appreciation? If you're a parent, are there specific things you do to pass on this sense of responsibility and appreciation to your own children in regard to the freedoms they enjoy?
I agree with the "Gipper." I tried to pass on to my children the importance of understanding our system of government. I also emphasized that they had a duty to vote in elections. SWMBO and I led by example often taking them with us to the polls.
My dad is a WWII veteran and while I was growing up he instilled in me and my older brother that it was important for us to serve in the U.S. Armed Forces. He impressed upon us that we had to take our turn defending our great nation.
I give thanks to God every day for the freedom He has blessed this Nation with.
By the way, the church is one generation from extinction as well.
3. Loudest noise you've ever heard?
The four engines of a KC-135 jet aircraft running at full throttle. I was a sentry charged with protecting the aircrat at the time. It is also why I'm as deaf as a post today.
4. What was the last thing you ate that might be considered 'junk food'? Did you enjoy it?
The last thing I ate that was junk food was popcorn and a root beer. SWMBO and I went to see the new Avenger's movie yesterday afternoon, and of course I enjoyed the popcorn and soda!
5. When was the last time you were somewhere the crowd felt 'packed in like sardines'?
Last week SWMBO had a follow up appointment at Dartmouth Medical Center in Lebanon. It is a regional medical center as well as a teaching hospital. The elevators tend to be crowded. That was the last time.
6. Are you organized when it comes to packing for a trip? Do you make a list weeks in advance or toss items in last minute? Are you a carry-on only sort of packer or do you need an entire suitcase for your shoes?
I tend to be very organized. I do make a list in advance AND throw things in at the last minute. I have a carry on as well as checked luggage. I don't have enough shoes to warrant a separate bag.
7. What was the last sporting event you attended in person? Did your team win? Did you care?
There is a AA Major League ball club in Manchester, NH, affiliated with the Toronto, Blue Jays organization. They are called the Manchester Fisher Cats. I attended one of their home games a couple of years ago. I don't remember who won. I didn't really care.
8. Insert your own random thought here.
Monday was Memorial Day. This holiday was estblished to call to the minds of the American people all of our fellow citizens who had died in the defense of our great nation. It is not to honor those veterans who are still alive. That's what Veteran's Day in November is for. And yet, FB and other media were replete with tributes to living veterans. Maybe it's just me but that bothered me.
I am proud that I served my country in the armed services. I appreciate it when people express thanks for my service and the service of other living veterans. When they do so on Memorial Day, however, it takes away from the respect and honor that those who paid the ultimate price deserve.
It seems to me that the people doing this haven't taken the time to understand what Memorial Day is really all about.
It is possible that I am being a fuss budget, but that's how I feel.
You are not being a fuss budget. You are right.
ReplyDeleteJoyce gave us another fun and thoughtful Hodgepodge! I enjoyed your answers!
Sure wish I could become more organized when traveling...I always pack at the last minute and take way too much!
ReplyDeleteGotta have popcorn at the movies! I understand the difference in holidays, but I think mostly people mean well. I feel like this year there were more sites explaining the difference, but I guess a lot of people don't take the time to read. Hope SWMBO is doing well!
ReplyDeleteI agree with your #8. I believe that they mean the best, but I do understand and appreciate your view. Hope you had a great Memorial Day.
ReplyDeleteMy love,
Kat
I can see why you'd be bothered on a personal level as a living veteran that being thanked somehow diminishes the honor due those who died in service to our country . It bothers me that people don't know the difference, but I saw a lot of emphasis on the distinction on FB this year. I think when people cannot thank a dead person but still feel they need an outlet for their gratitude to the military, it comes out in thanks to the living. I'm okay with that. Maybe that helps ease your angst. ??
ReplyDeleteI can see why you'd be bothered on a personal level as a living veteran that being thanked somehow diminishes the honor due those who died in service to our country . It bothers me that people don't know the difference, but I saw a lot of emphasis on the distinction on FB this year. I think when people cannot thank a dead person but still feel they need an outlet for their gratitude to the military, it comes out in thanks to the living. I'm okay with that. Maybe that helps ease your angst. ??
ReplyDeleteEverybody knows that the popcorn and drinks are the best part of the movie experience :)
ReplyDeleteSometimes, I'm guilty of lumping all service men and women together on Memorial Day, too, but I know what the day means and who it is set aside for. Unfortunately, far too many folks just consider it the kick off to summer vacation.
We have only recently had two separate events. Remembrance Sunday in November and Armed Forces Day in June. I'm not sure everyone in the UK is aware of the significance of each event either.
ReplyDelete