When the Music Stopped

I know we all get forwards on a daily basis. I got this one today and it really spoke to me. Hope you enjoy it too:

For those who are unaware, at a theater on a military post or base, the National Anthem is played before every movie.

When the music stopped: from a Chaplain in Iraq

I recently attended a showing of 'Superman 3', here at LSA Anaconda. We have a large auditorium we use for movies, as well as memorial services and other large gatherings. As is the custom back in the States, we stood and snapped to attention when the National Anthem began before the main feature. All was going as planned until about three-quarters of the way through The National Anthem the music stopped. Now, what would happen if this occurred with 1,000 18-22 year-olds back in the States? I imagine there would be hoots, catcalls, laughter, a few rude comments; and everyone would sit down and call for a movie. Of course, that is, if they had stood for the National Anthem in the first place. Here, the 1,000 Soldiers continued to stand at attention, eyes fixed forward. The music started again. The Soldiers continued to quietly stand at attention. And again, at the same point, the music stopped. What would you expect to happen? Even here I would imagine laughter, as everyone finally sat down and expected the movie to start. But here, you could have heard a pin drop. Every Soldier continued to stand at attention. Suddenly there was a lone voice, then a dozen, and quickly the room was filled with the voices of a thousand soldiers, finishing where the recording left off: 'And the rockets' red glare, the bombs bursting in air, gave proof through the night that our flag was still there. Oh, say does that Star Spangled Banner yet wave, o'er the land of the free, and the home of the brave.' It was the most inspiring moment I have had here in Iraq. I wanted you to know what kind of Soldiers are serving you here. Remember them as they fight for you! Pass this along as a reminder to others to be ever in prayer for all our soldiers serving us here at home and abroad. For many have already paid the ultimate price. Written by Chaplain Jim Higgins. LSA Anaconda is at the Ballad Airport in Iraq, north of Baghdad

I am WAY behind...

Okay, I have been WAY behind on posting. I have lots to update....mainly, we had a fun adventure to "ELMO: When I Grow Up!!" Chloe had a great time! I will attempt to post pictures and updates on Monday! Until then...have a HAPPY WEEKEND :)

My First Baby

Finally one that is different! Here you go mommies - a different kind of tag for a change - it's all about you and your first baby!

1. Were you married at the time? yes

2. What were your reactions when you found out you were pregnant? shocked and kind of scared (to be honest)

3. How old were you? 22

4. How did you find out you were pregnant? pregnancy test at home

5. Who did you tell first? Blake was with me when I took the test

6. Did you want to find out the sex? of course...have to plan!

7. Due date? September 11, 2006

8. Did you deliver early or late? 5 days early (I was induced)

9. Did you have morning sickness? none at all...I was lucky!!

10. What did you crave? salad (in the beginning..specifically Olive Garden salad)

11. Who irritated you the most? no comment :)

12. What was your first child's sex? girl

13. How many pounds did you gain throughout the pregnancy? 45 lbs (YIKES)

14. Did you have any complications during your pregnancy? my fluids got really low towards the end of the pregnancy, that is why I had to go on bed rest and ended up being induced

15. Where did you give birth? Gateway

16. How many hours were you in labor? 21 hours (give or take)

17. Who drove you to the hospital? Blake

18. Who watched? Blake

19. Was it natural or c-section? C-Section

20. Did you take medicine to ease the pain? Ummmm...YES!!

21. How much did your child weigh? 7 lbs 2 oz.

22. What did you name him/her? Chloe Elizabeth

23. How old is your first born today? 2 years and almost 3 months

I tag all Mommies :)