THANK YOU!

As we started our week on Monday, reviewing the crazy schedule to come, the children were very excited about a day off at home! I shared how excited I was as well...lots to do at home, fun with our families...but most of all, we discussed the importance of today, November 11...Veterans' Day. A day to remember those brave men and women who help to make our country a safe and happy place to live.

Upon the beginning of our class conversation, I asked what a "Veteran" is. I quickly received a response of "I know what that is...it's where we take our dog when he is sick." I chuckled inside, assuring that brave student the words Veteran and Veterinarian DO, INDEED, sound the same. However, a veteran is something a bit different.

We discussed "soldiers" next. That's when I saw the light bulbs click on in my students' eyes! They knew what I was talking about, AND they just learned a new vocabulary word for soldier. As a matter of fact, some were quite passionate about the subject, as one child's dad is in the Air Force.

Although I didn't share this information with my students, I feel I can share it with you. The importance of this day was realized by me when I was a very young girl, as my own father's identical twin brother gave his life for this country in Vietnam, just a few weeks before he was to arrive home to be my dad's best man. I am also the proud granddaughter, niece, aunt and friend of MANY other veterans as well.

Please take the time today to share stories with your child about their own family members or friends who have served in the armed forces. They are interested in the topic and have such great insight.

Enjoy your family today and hug them tightly, remembering that somewhere in this country, there is another family, just like yours, wishing they had the luxury of being together today, just as you and your family are.