Yantis Green 

We arrived in Washington yesterday afternoon.  We are staying at the Gaylord National Harbor Resort across from D.C. and Alexandria, V.A.  Today, we toured the Capitol with an intern from Congressman Mike Conaway's office.  It was great to see and hear the history.  We saw the statues and the inside of the Capitol Dome and even sat in on the House proceedings while they were debating the Energy bill.  In short, the Republicans contended that Congress needed to stay and vote on the Energy bill while the Democrats said leaving town was ok because they aren't going to vote to allow additional drilling on U.S. soil.  Now I understand just how bad things are in Washington !

Also today, walked around the White House and went to Arlington National Cemetery.  The emotion of Arlington hits you live a wave as you first see the white markers lined up by the thousands.  What a fortunate and blessed people we are to have had so many fine men and women sacrifice their lives and their futures for Freedom, Liberty, Democracy  and us.  Lets cherish the gifts they gave us and never forget their sacrifice or their families. 

I was blessed enough to witness the changing of the guard at the tomb of the unknown soldier. 

I cried.  I am so greatful.  I don't have words to describe what that is like.  You just have to experience it. 

I also got to visit the Marine Corps War Memorial, the Iwo Jima.  I was walking and as I rounded the corner, the huge bronze statue took my breath away.  I cried again.  You can see the grit and determination that spurred on the nation when they first saw the photo that inspired that great monument.  For me, it is hallowed ground.  I wanted to say something or do something or go back to high school and join my best friend in joining the Marine Corps. 

It's that inspirational. 

-yantis

11Aug2008

I got to drive Ryan to work early this morning.  He & I haven't had much time together alone since he married a couple years ago.  We drove from his house the 5 miles to New River Marine Corps Air Station, N.C.  We talked about his son, his dogs, the deployment in a few weeks.  It occured to me that when we go home tomorrow, I may see him for the last time.  I fought back tears.  I remember this skinny, knock-kneed kid with the biggest smile and the brightest eyes I'd ever seen laughing with his little brother as we got to know each other seemingly just yesterday.  And now, he's going away for the second time to stand between me and the bad guys, those folks who want to kill him & me & our family.  I wish I could take his place.  I pray I could take his place. But he is the Marine.  He is the strong one now. 

I have to trust him and his fellow Marines. 

I do. 

I will hold his mom close every night he is gone.  We will check on his wife & son as often as possible.   We will pray & wait for news.  We will send him care packages & hope he calls.  We are a military family.