This Time of Year

     It seems like every summer I go through the same decision making process.  To blog or not to blog.  It has been over 2 years since I started this blog.  Sometimes the thoughts come easy, other times I seem to have difficulty having enough passion to write about anything.  Maybe having my kids home all day takes priority.

     Last summer I took a little break.  I think I have to this year as well.  I might return next month, or I might say good-bye.   I’m thinking of starting another blog with a more light-hearted theme as we all need more happiness in this world.   Thanks to all who continue to follow.  Enjoy the rest of the summer.

Ahhh…..Summer

     Get up.  Get dressed.  Eat your breakfast.  Did you brush your teeth and comb your hair? Make your bed?   Did you put your lunch in your backpack?  Do I have to sign anything?  Do you have your homework and books?  Let’s get down to the bus stop.  The school day starts.

     Get off the bus or get picked up.   Some days involve after-school activities.  All have homework that needs to get done.  Have a snack, do homework, eat dinner, read, brush teeth, go to bed.  The school day ends.  (This is the abbreviated version.)

     This is just a small sample of a typical day of a child who goes to school.  While often fun, it has moments of being hectic and tiring.  There are some educational experts who promote the benefits of year round schooling.  While there is little doubt that many would gain from learning on a continual basis, there is much to be said for the few months of reprieve that the summer offers.

     Even though there are still some activities to attend, they don’t start so early in the day.  The pace is slower and relaxed. There is more time to spend swimming, hiking, playing games, and attending outdoor events.  There is time to read books for enjoyment. There is time to visit local farms, museums, small towns and big cities.  There is time to spend with your kids that doesn’t involve being constantly in the car or trying to get all that is required done.

     Summer remains a season for all ages.  Despite the heat, many people have wonderful memories of summers past.  Everyone seems to have childhood experiences and events they fondly remember.  It can be as simple as going out for their favorite ice cream, or a big vacation they took one year.  There are graduation parties, weddings, and family reunions.  Some remember jobs or internships.  Mostly, we remember the days of warmer temperatures, gardens, beaches, barbecues, and the long days of sunlight that lifts our spirit.

     Summer is a season of simplicity.  It brings people out and together and allows time for what the rest of the year doesn’t seem to allow.   No matter how what you do, have fun, stay cool, and make those memories that last a lifetime.  September will be here before you know it.

Home of the Brave

     Thousands of small children claim when they grow up they want to be one of them.  In reality, far fewer answer the call.  Months of training and passing tests are required to be added to the city, town, and rural units that exist across the country.  Others will become part of the elite corps called up for the most serious and difficult situations.  They are committed in their service to society, and often are taken for granted until something happens which make us painfully aware just how much we need them.

     They understand the danger and risk they face on an ongoing basis.  Their loved ones know there is always the chance, no matter how well-prepared, something could go terribly wrong.  Every time they leave for work may be the last.  Yet, when the call comes, they do not hesitate to respond.   While others are told to evacuate for their safety, they march in to save lives and property.  If any fall, there are others right behind them to continue the job.  They don’t take time to grieve until the mission is accomplished.

   Who are they?  They are the firefighters of America.  Be it the local department, or the forces called up for national disasters, they encounter heat, flames, and smoke to put out a force of nature that is all consuming.  They are the NYPD on 9/11, the Hotshots in Arizona, and the countless departments that fight fires in the neighborhoods of every community.  It is devastating when one is lost, catastrophic when whole units are wiped out, all dying what they loved to do.  This past week, we celebrated the 4^th of July.  Thoughts of freedom and patriotism are revisited and renewed in our hearts.   But, there is another phrase we recite as a source of national pride.  One epitomized in the strength and character of the people committed to keeping our nation safe regardless of risk.   For the nineteen lost last week, and all the firefighters who have died before them, you are part of the fabric in the words ….”home of the brave.”   A nation is forever indebted.