Tomorrow I’ll spend the last day with my grandson and his fiancee before he goes back to Alaska where he is stationed.  This was his pre-deployment vacation and I’m so honored that he wanted to spend it here with me.  Early in December, he will leave for Afghanistan.  They are both 20 and I can’t imagine their facing 10 months of separation under these conditions.

We live two blocks from the ocean and he has been able to surf and fish and walk the beach.  Most of his life he has lived in Hawaii.  Surfing has been an important part of his early and teenage years.  The waves have been remarkably good.  Learning on Hawaiian surf, our Florida waves are fun rather than a challenge.  I’ve thanked the Lord every day that he has had some good surf days for his vacation.

Today is Veteran’s Day and we, as a nation, will remember and pray for the men and women who have served our nation in the military.  As I do every day, I will spend time praying for my grandson and asking God’s protection for him.  It seems strange that the young boy who let me wipe his nose and wrap him in my arms to keep him warm  has become a man.  He will now be protecting me.

The ticking of our life clock never slows.  It only stops.  I’m honored to be able to experience this pleasant time with my grandson.  A couple of days ago, he wrapped his arms around me to keep me warm as darkness fell and we walked together.

From a grateful grandmother and friend, thank you, Son, for serving in the Army.  Be safe.  Be brave and return home.  My love and prayers go with you.