Friday:) Freedom, Flags, and Friends

Marlan Rico Lee — ‘Be grateful for the things and people you have in your life. Things you take for granted someone else is praying for’.

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It was good to wake up to a sunny morning, and  a new day. Today is Veteran’s Day. The day we honor all who have served and currently serve in our country’s military. Too many of us take our freedom for granted, with that freedom being fought for and granted to us by those who serve, who fought, and who have died to protect us. I like the quote that suggests that there are people who are praying for the things we take for granted. It’s true.

It was also wonderful to take a break from all the negativity on TV and social media about the elections. Facebook was plastered with salutes to veterans and servicemen, fathers, sons, daughters, friends. The pictures and stories were heartwarming. 

My dad was a WWII army veteran, serving in the Philippines. He served his country and was very proud to be an American. I had uncles, cousins, and other relatives who served our country. Veteran’s Day is a good time to show your respect, but every day is even better. 

Whenever I see a service person or someone with a hat saying veteran of a particular war or branch of service, I go up and shake their hand and say, “Thank you for your service.” That isn’t just on Veteran’s day, it’s every day. It’s always appreciated,  and a smile and “Thank you mam,” is the response.

THANK YOU TO ALL WHO SERVE! Dad and Uncle Butch are no longer with us, but not forgotten.

My dad, Elijah Armenta  WWII

My Uncle served in the Navy

My uncle George “Butch” Aguirre.

Cheers! 

Black Russian Friday and a salute to our veterans.

Me and my neighbor, Diane. Home of the free because of the brave. Thank you!

Friday:) Friends, Flags, and a Furry Sidekick

“I’ve found life to be such an adventure right in my own backyard.”

~ Toni Armenta Andrukaitis

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Sometimes I think the reason I’m not a big traveler or explorer is because I’ve found life to be such adventure and fun right in my own backyard. People often need to travel off to far off lands in search of exotic places and scenic vistas. I like my feet firmly planted on the ground, surrounded by friends and family. My idea of a fine adventure is trying a new restaurant on the square, laughing with friends, or capturing a crimson sunset.

This morning, I took my little furry friend, Bella, for a steamy walk. It was already pretty darn hot out. I dropped her off at home and continued on for another forty minutes or so. She’s a lot smarter than I am. When she’s hot and tired, she throws herself on the cool grass, rolls around and says, “I’ve had enough. Let’s go home.” She doesn’t really talk, but I’m a “Pet Whisperer.”

Then, off to the square to celebrate Karen’s belated birthday. It’s hard to get a bunch of busy ladies together. Michele had to leave early to get to her class. Karen suggested we meet at Spoon’s Garage for old times sake, as we used to meet there practically once a week for a long time. Now, it’s rare if we get together once every few months.

After lunch, we stopped to visit our friend Lynda, who recently had surgery and was home recuperating. Nothing like four loud unruly women visiting to make convalescing enjoyable. We just all converged in her bedroom, and I scrunched on the foot of the bed with the dogs. Girlfriends don’t care, we appreciate rowdy girlfriends, even when we’re sick.

When I got home, another short walk for Bella and long evening walk for me. I love to catch the beautiful brilliant colors of sunset. A lot of people have their flags out for Labor Day and Spetmeber 11th. There’s something glorious about a flag fluttering against a golden sunset.