After my last post, yesterdays events and memories had me eating a delicious slice of humble pie.  And yes, it was welcomed with open arms.  Too easy we fall into the trap of that gray monster inside ourselves.  That rotten beast who feeds on our doubts and makes us question our self-worth.  Yesterday made me open my eyes and be more appreciative for all that I have in this world and all I want to become for myself and for my family. Yesterday I joined my husband in a special remembrance of a man I never met. A man who gave me something I am forever grateful for and too often take for granted.
Staff Sergeant David Veverka served in Operation Iraqi Freedom with my husband.  While in country, Veverka and my husband lived not only as soldiers and friends, but also as roommates.  On May 6, 2006 SSG Veverka along with SSG Dale Kelly were killed when the vehicle they were riding in on a routine convoy mission came in contact with an improvised explosive device (IED). The thought that this could easily have been my own husband is humbling to say the least.
Yesterday marked the 4th Anniversary of this tragedy, and yesterday we hugged a little longer and prayed a little harder.  I am thankful for each and every soldier who has given their life to defend our freedom. Yesterday we remembered Dave and joined a few friends and soldiers in saying a prayer to St Michael and laying a wreath at Dave's memorial at the University of Maine.
Staff Sergeant David Veverka was an inspirational student and wildlife ecology major at the university while serving as a member of the Maine Army National Guard.  After returning to the states in 2007, fellow soldiers of the Mountain Company planted an oak tree at the university in his honor.  Each year a memorial wreath is placed at the tree and Dave's memory goes unforgotten.  As an even greater honor, David is buried at Arlington National Cemetary.
















Yesterday was a day to remember. Today is a another day to give thanks for the lives and freedoms we are all so privileged to have thanks to every soldier who puts or has put his or her life on the line.

And one final thought.  Live everyday with no regrets.  Do not ever hesitate to tell someone how you feel about them.  My husband tells tales of Dave in small random stories and it makes my eyes well with tears every single time.  I think the thing that has stuck with me the most is that Dave told my husband of his plans to propose to his girlfriend when they returned home.  To this day, it breaks my heart to think that girl may have never known of Dave's plan and the place she held in his heart.