I Believe...

in that which I cannot see
in love
in Christ
in hope
that one can change-- truly change

What is hard to believe is how quickly life goes by.  Three years ago today the world changed.  Tears fell and hearts wept... Brett's cousin was killed while serving in Operation Iraqi Freedom.  A1C Eric M. Barnes went to be with the Lord three years ago today.

I remember the day like it was yesterday.  It was a Sunday. We got a call- early. Brett and I were enjoying one of our final days sleeping in and rolling around leisurely in bed.  I was 9 months pregnant with B.  I had lost my job one week prior.  Eric had been killed.  Shock. Disbelief.  True heart ACHE.  We hurried off to be with our family.  All gathered on Brett's aunt and uncle's front lawn.  So many gathered.  Family, friends, teens, adults, and tiny tots.  Eric was gone. 

It's still so sobering to think about. 

If you have ever met Eric's parents or his brother then you have had the privilege of meeting strength, courage, love and hope in the flesh.  They are amazing.  I want to be like Eric's Mom in so many ways.  She is a pillar of strength, yet vulnerable to her emotions and compassionate to others at all times.  She rests in the arms of Christ, in the faith that her firstborn is also-- just as I type-- resting safely in the arms of Jesus. 

I wish I would have gotten to know Eric better.  His legacy lives on always.  Each year on the anniversary of his death, we will celebrate his LIFE.  Just as we did tonight.  Family, friends, adults, and lil tots gathered to celebrate- hug, laugh, and cry.  As I nursed L in the family's living room, surrounded by red, white and blue, eagles, photos of Eric, and American flag clad decor, I couldn't help but to weep. 

Forget the P90x diet. Tonight I enjoyed a red-white-and blue-sprinkled-star-shaped sugar cookie tonight.  Eric totally would have wanted me to! 

Cheers to you Eric!  You will always be remembered.  A1C Eric M. Barnes... a true HERO. 

Remembering a Loved One this Memorial Day

This year, and for the remainder of Memorial Days to come, will be different. Of course I have always understood the importance of Memorial Day and the significance it holds for all Americans, but this year is different. On June 10, 2007, Brett's cousin Airman 1st Class Eric M. Barnes was killed in the line of duty while serving in Iraq. It was a devastating and tragic loss for our family and we still continue to grieve. This was Eric's second tour in Iraq, which he willingly signed up to serve. He loved his Country and believed in the cause. Please say a pray for his mom, dad and brother, as you can imagine how deep the pain runs in their hearts.

So as you enjoy a day off of work, perhaps while watching parades and cooking burgers on the grill-- remember those who have lost their lives for our Country, and those who have and are currently fighting for our freedom. Freedom is not free!