A Special Thanks....

Jackie and I had the previlige to DJ a going away party for a Marine friend Saturday, and it's been on my mind ever since. I think we all take our freedom for granted in the day to day hustle and bustle we get caught up in. Or at least I know I do. I just want to say a great big "thank you" to all these precious men and women.

I remember one Sunday going to church when Joey's mother came to me with a worried face and said, Joey got his driving permit last week....then a few minutes later a young, proud "kid" came driving up in a big 4 wheel drive "monster truck", beaming from ear to ear. We've watched this "kid" develop into a responsible mature adult. And even at the tender age of 20, already serving one tour in Iraq, getting ready to go to Afghanistan, he has it "together" more than many 50 year olds I know.

As we went mud boggin' that night....yes I went muddin'.....I noticed something in Donny, also a 20 year old Marine and our "mud" driver, that I've also noticed in Joey and his brothers Randy and Tim (also fellow Marines that served a few years back). These are some of the most loyal, respectful young men I've ever seen in my life. We had just met Donny Saturday night, and I've never been treated with such respect as he showed us.

Although war is a very sad, tragic thing, God's word says:

Ecclesiastes 3:8
a time to love and a time to hate, a time for war and a time for peace.

I am truly thankful for all these young men and women who have been called to serve our country. Thank you Robbie Anderson. Even tho you've gone on to a better place, you were a true friend and you raised your sons well. We miss you sooooo much. Thanks to our great TRUE friends Randy and Tim Anderson who have served in the past. Thank you Grant. And Thanks to Joey Anderson and Donny who are serving now. May God be with you and keep you safe.