Monday, Monday--A Weekend of Remembering

This past weekend was one of remembrance for several reasons. The biggest, of course, is the fact that it was the 9th anniversary of 9/11. Hard to believe it's been that long. I can still remember exactly where I was and who I was with when I first heard the news.

It was actually my day off from work. I hadn't even contemplated a career as a writer yet and publication was years away. Hubby and I were at the mall and the stores had just opened. I overheard two gentlemen talking about a plane crash. My first thought was that my step-father would be interested in all the news because he worked with the airline industries for his entire life. We continued on down through the mall and saw a small crowd gathered around an electronics store. We stopped to see what was going on and noticed every was watching the big television out front. We got there just in time to watch the second plane hit the Twin Towers. I was stunned and horrified as I realized this was no accident, but intentional.

Hubby and I went home immediately. At that point, no one knew what else might happen. We spent the next few days glued to the news reports like everyone else. We were numb. How could someone do something this horrible? Even now just thinking about it brings tears to my eyes. No matter how long I live, I'll never understand the kind of hatred that leads to such an action. My thoughts and prayers are with those who died that day and those who survived and have to live with the shadow of this tragedy.

On a happier note, this was also a weekend of personal remembrance. Hubby and I celebrate our wedding anniversary in August. This year marked 23 years of married life. But September 10th is our own personal date--it marks our first date and the begining of our life together. 27 years ago this past Friday, we had our first date. We'd only met a week before that, introduced by a mutual friend. Who knew that all these years later we'd still be together. It's been interesting, to say the least. It's been hard work and a lot of fun. It's been an adventure and a blessing. It's been up and down and everywhere in between. But through it all, there's been love. I hope the next 27 years are just as wonderful.

I hope you all had a good weekend with family and friends. Hold your loved ones close and tell them how much you care. Life can be shorter than we think and you don't want to risk missing the opportunity.

Have a great week!