Sisterly Love

Jack's silly smile + my sister, Wendy

Jack & I went for a family & beach visit to NC...we had lots of time for hugs, talks, and fun, with my side of the family.  My sister Wendy had a scary (unanticipated) health crisis & I was able to be there, in person, for a change.  When you live far away & emergencies occur, it is difficult not to be there to hold a hand, give a hug, wipe a tear, or even paint some toenails!  I so wish Wendy had not gotten sick, but I'm glad I was there.

She is a strong woman who I remember as a brown-eyed, bald, beautiful baby who came into my world when I was 2 1/2 years old.  We shared a room together until I left for college and have a sister & friend connection that is deep & forever.

I'll always love you, my dear sister & hope that you will continue to heal & recover quickly & get back to your "old" self soon!

Where Heroes Rest--Tahoma National Cemetery

Memorial Day 2011

Waving the flag & singing "My Country Tis of Thee" with Mommy

Putting the flag on the grave

There once was an average American citizen, who served his country honorably and retired from the Army after 20 years of service.  He, his wife and two girls, moved to the Pacific Northwest, where he became a King County Sheriff's Deputy.  One fateful day, on June 22, 2002, he was responding to a call where a deranged, naked man was trying to get onto a bus.  He tried to pepper spray the man, but the crazy man retrieved the officer's own service pistol and killed him in front of all the horrified bus riders.  Yes, the SWAT team was able to arrest the murderer, and of course, he had come to his senses enough to get dressed.

Now, a wife and two teenagers, do not have a husband & father.  This man is Richard Anthony Herzog and he is who Jack & I memorialized this Memorial Day at the Tahoma National Cemetery.

Rest in Peace, our Hero!