I was all sniffly and sad just buying the card, so I thought I'd "reward" myself by doing a good deed. A few blocks from where I live is a house with a blue-star flag and a yellow ribbon prominently displayed outside. As a total stranger, I knocked on the door, introduced myself, and tried to explain that I was truly proud for her son's service, and his family, despite looking and sounding like I just buried my best friend.
After mutual hugs and sniffles, I told my story, and she told hers. Her son in an engineer with the First Cav, and goes out at night to play with IEDs that are called in to them. I then excused myself, went home, and came back with a large "goodie package" she can mail to her son. She invited me back when her husband is home. He's ex-Army, and wanted to "talk shop" with other guys. They will also visit the Hobbit Hole site, since I spent quite a bit of time explaining it was not just me.
She did mention that punks have taken away three of her yellow ribbons from their tree so far. I offered to wire up a trip flare further up in the tree to protect her next ribbon.
Pretty meaningful activity for today, and it's just after lunch now.
~snif~
that's jes beautiful
You're a good man winmag, and not just because of the trip flare.
What a terrific day for you, winmag. Glad you introduced yourself to her!
*sniff*
You're good people winmag! I'm proud to know you.
You're good people, winmag. Yeah, a trip flare sounds appropriate. ;o) Stupid punks.