A (not so) friendly reminder

This past Monday I was returning home from vacation in Anaheim, CA. Our plane was to board at 7:27 pm at Long Beach Airport. This is a tiny airport where you board and deboard the plane on the tarmac. It was announced the our boarding was to be a bit delayed and we ended up not boarding until 7:59 pm - over 30 minutes behind schedule.

As we were waiting to board, I kept thinking "Oh man, that's going to get us home later", "that's 30 minutes less sleep", "tomorrow morning is going to suck getting outta bed" and other negative thoughts. I just wanted to go home. 

We finally got up in the air and the captain came over the speaker informing us of why we were behind schedule (I found this kind of odd because they never do this). He told us that the flight before us was bringing home a fallen solider. They were having a military service for him on the tarmac with his family. My heart dropped and I instantly felt like such a jerk. Not twenty minutes before was I complaining about my insignificant setbacks due to a late plane that held a man that gave his life so that I may continue to enjoy the freedoms I take for granted every day. My heart goes out to this man's family and all the other families who have soldiers who have died while serving and those families who currently have loved ones currently serving.

I started to think about those brave individuals who have risked their lives for our country. Both of my grandpas served in World War II. I have a friend who served in Iraq and received a purple heart. I have a friend who is set for deployment in March. I am forever indebted to those who keep our country safe. For those who fight for our freedom. For those who try to help others obtain freedom.

During these summer months, we have several holidays that are to celebrate our troops and our country. Let's not forget those who have served and who are now serving. Not only do they need our support while out in dangerous territories but after they come home.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

No Soda May Results

Ahhhh, Soda.  We've been apart for 31 days. You've tempted me with your shiny cans, refreshing tastes and caffeine boosts. But my willpower was strong!

Ohhhh, Water. While sometimes boring, you are always good to me. But drinking you straight* for 31 days has been taking it's toll. I don't want to resent you, so I need this relationship to be flexible.

So on day 1 that the self-imposed ban is now lifted, we can reunite, Soda. And this is what I choose:

But Water, I haven't forgotten about you. I've had 32 oz of you today already and I'm sure it will continue after Diet Pepsi is finished.

* One night, I had Crystal Light Margarita mix drink (non-alcoholic) and I sip of Kaleigh's Diet Dr Pepper Cherry when I was eating popcorn at the theatre and had no other beverage and in Mesquite, I had about an inch of OJ.