This morning as I sat on my patio early with my coffee, enjoying the breezes, the birds, bees and butterflies and waiting to see if the Shuttle would be able to land here at home, I was thnking about how lucky I am to live in this country and community, to own my own home free and clear and to be able to take this time to reflect.

     I am grateful for all my many blessings. My life has been charmed in so many ways.  There has been a lot of drama ( Some people suggest I should write a book!), as well as adventures, and happy endings

     I am especially grateful for my wonderful late husband Dick. Growing up on an Illinois farm, he joined the Marines after college and proudly served his country in Japan and Korea. He worked at the Space Center and downrange for RCA/GE for 32 years as the Space Center developed, and spending his last 3 years before retirement on a classified project out of Virginia Beach with GE aboard the SURTASS, which is mentioned in the book "The Hunt for Red October". Once retired we planned to travel for fun, but his hardest battles were just beginning! Shingles, RA, then Esophageal Cancer with drastic treatments at Shands, beating the 92% fatality rate!  Later the final 4 year battle with a deadly blood cancer that took him from me/us 18 months ago.

     He bravely helped me raise my 4 little girls into beautiful, strong women without complaint. His strength, intelligence and integrity in all things as well as his friendly smile, twinkling blue eyes and acceptance of everyone have left their mark on us all.

     Growing up in the early 40's in Gainesville myself, I remember my uncles serving in the military. Many of the guys at our restaurant were GI's.  My oldest grandson, Luke. is in Italy now with the Air Force. My 2 neices, Sunshine and Lucy are also military trained. I am grateful for them, for all those who serve and protect us today as well as through out our history.

     I watched the PBS tribute special tonight as I always do with pride in my country.  Thanks to God and all of them for the peace in my life and heart.