May is Military Appreciate Month. I want to THANK our Vets for all that they have done and do for us every day. I want to show those who have come home after serving our country and have been forgotten that we appreciate their sacrifices for us.
When was the last time that you thanked a service man or woman? Bought them a cup of coffee for no reason. For me despite the fact that I “heard” the stories from my dad and step-dad about their time serving our country, it never really clicked. I never really thought about how it directly affected me.
Then came “Operation Freedom” some 15 years ago. This is when the commitment of our military men and women and their families HIT HOME! My best friend’s husband, Bill, was deployed for what they said would be 30 days. There were the 3 boys – Sean, Ryan and Shane as well as Jen who were all in school, active in various activities and not really understanding what would be dad’s first deployment. The days leading up to Bill’s deployment were filled with lots of paperwork – wills, living wills, etc. The weeks after Bill left were full of emotions – tears, anger, frustration – it was just too hard for the kids to understand that dad wouldn’t be home for awhile. A 30 day deployment turned into 6 months. Tough times for everyone – financially and emotionally.
When Bill returned home, there were struggles. Not just financially but emotionally for everyone. There would develop a new sense of normal in the house. It was then that I realized what the battle scars of war were all about – the toughest was the emotional toll which leaves a permanent mark. On the outside, all may be well but on the inside they carry memories that will haunt them forever.
Over the last five years, with the help of my family, friends, customers and hostesses, I have been blessed to make donations to various causes near and dear to my heart. So, I am again asking for your help to make a difference in the lives of the men and women who have protected our freedoms.
For just $25 you can sponsor a personalized Zipper Pouch. I will use 100% of my commission to fill them with candy, trail mix, gum, crossword puzzle book, a thank you card and a small American flag. My goal is 31 zipper pouches sponsored by April 28th. The bags will be stuffed and delivered to a local program that works with Veterans and their family. Payments can be sent via Paypal to hopesgiftcloset@comcast.net – you don’t need to have a Paypal account to do this. If you want, I can invoice you, it that is easier.
So, who is with me? For $25 you can bring a smile to the face of one of our honored Veterans.
If you see someone in the military – stop and thank them, let them know that you appreciate what they are doing for this country. Remember to STOP and say a prayer asking for the safety of our men and women near and far who serve this country. Won’t you help to make a difference today?
Have a ThirtyOne-derful day!
Hope Wissel 