While in DC this summer, we visited the Pentagon Memorial.  Words cannot express the emotions that race through your mind as your reading the victim’s names.  Even though you can still hear traffic in the distance, there is a sense of peace and solemness.

The wall that surrounds the memorial is designed to remind visitors of the youngest and the oldest victims.  It stands 3 inches tall at its beginning, representing the youngest person killed there – Dana Falkenberg – and continues to the oldest victim, retired U.S. Navy Capt. John D Yamnicky Sr.

The infamous date and time “September 11, 2001 – 9:37 a.m. ” -the exact moment of the attack on the Pentagon is carved on a stone that was recovered from the smoldering ruins of the Pentagon.

The benches are made of steel and granite, they are laid out in particular pattern according to the year each victim was born.  Each bench has the name of the victim.  The names face east or west depending on where the victims were when they died .  If the victim was on the plane, visitors read the name as they look toward the western sky.  If the person was inside the Pentagon, you read the name looking at the building, facing east.  A reflecting pool is under each bench,  adding to the feeling of tranquility.

Barbara K. Olson 45,  called her husband and told him terrorists had taken control of the plane, those were her last words to him.

At the entrance to the memorial 184 names are listed next to the following:

“We claim this ground in remembrance of the events of September 11, 2001.  To honor the 184 people whose lives were lost, their families, and all who sacrifice that we may live in freedom.  We will never forget.”

Eight years ago, I was 5 months pregnant with our daughter… I was watching GMA and saw the breaking news – actually saw plane #2 as it went in to the WTC.   I don’t think any of us will ever forget that tragic day.  A feeling of sadness is with me today as I think of all the people who lost family.  God Bless America.

South Texas Academic Rising Scholars  brings Sugarland to the RGV.  The STARS organization continues to help so many students in South Texas by providing scholarships to qualifying students.  Check out their site http:// www.southtexasstars.org  Thank you to all the sponsors and people of the RGV who continue to make a difference in the lives of students!

These vintage looking lanterns came down from above – love them, this band puts on an amazing show!  So much fun!!!

Most of you know I have had a dog (mostly)  all my adult life.  First there was Casey – an adorable Cocker Spaniel that Rey bought for me when we were still at UTSA.   We had him almost 10 years – he was poisoned by a toad ( which is why I can’t stand frogs ) and he died in our arms.  So sad.  I said I would never, ever have another dog because it was so difficult to say goodbye.  But, I never thought about having to say no to my children someday when they’d ask to have a dog.  Remembering the joy Casey gave me, I went against what I had promised myself – for my children.

Along came Petunia the Pug.  Petunia sleeps more than anyone I’ve ever known!  She and Adrian are inseparable – she makes us all laugh and is slightly spoiled.   I think people who have dogs share something special and the most incredible unconditional love with them.

Can you say cool?  We talked about cars… he doesn’t like balloons & he loves spending time with his grandmother :)

Friday night high school football is here!  To all the girls on the PSJA North Varsity Cheer, have a great year & good luck!  Congrats on all your accomplishments at UT Cheer Camp!   Go Raiders!

Have a great Senior Year AMANDA!!!

Here are some of my favorites…. enjoy!