I'm leaving on a jet plane

Well, we're headed to New Orleans again. Crazy, right. I feel like we just got back. My suitcase was still packed from our trip last weekend. We'll be heading there for a wedding, and I can't wait to see everyone. My Delta Gamma little sis is getting married to one of Mark's fraternity brothers so it should be quite a reunion. The ceremony itself will take place near the gazebo on Fulton Street next to Harrah's Hotel, which is where the reception is. I can't wait to see how beautiful the outdoor ceremony is. Fulton Street is so unique and feels very New Olreansy - just perfect for a local girl!

My brother and sister-in-law will be there too!!! Yay! We have missed them, so it'll be nice catching up. Plus, my goal is to woo Alissa with all NOLA has to offer so that they come to visit us very often when we move home. It shouldn't be too hard!!

As excited as I am about our trip, I can't ignore how saddened I am by the Fort Hood shootings. There is no place in the world I feel safer than on a US military base, and it breaks my heart to think of the men and women who were killed or injured at Fort Hood. I imagine that those waiting in the readiness center had come to peace with the dangers that deployment brings, but to experience such a horrific thing on our own soil is just unfathomable to me, especially within the protection of a base. I cannot imagine if this had happened here at Parris Island or the Air Station or Navy Hospital. It is just so sad. I am hoping that the families of the brave men and women who were injured or killed are able to find some comfort as the days pass. I also hope that the family of the officer who committed this horrible act find peace as well. I am sure that they are grieving too. For all of the men and women who serve, we are so grateful of your generosity of spirit, your commitment to service, and your willingness to lay down your life for the cause of freedom.