The Cradle of Naval Aviation

Hunter and I recently flew to Washington, DC, where we picked up my truck which was parked at the Airport Employee Parking Lot (back when I was based in DC) and drove to Oklahoma City via Pensacola, Florida (The Cradle of Naval Aviation). Before we left DC, I took Hunter to my favorite Mexican Restaurant. I have to say, they have the best chips and salsa I've ever tasted; remember, I'm an expert... I've eaten all over the world. I'm pleased to announce they have a location in Dallas. Hunter, Haley and I are already planning a trip to Dallas just for the chips and salsa. Hunter's planning on blogging our trip, so I'll leave the details to him. My only comments are echoed on the Pensacola Beach Sign, "World's Whitest Beaches". The sand and water are spectacular. Hunter was kind enough to listen as I regaled him with stories of my days as a student and instructor pilot with the Navy in Pensacola. And yes, we did attend the Blue Angels practice show. Be sure to check out all the details on Hunter's Blog. As of today, he's still working on the final draft. I'm sure it'll be worth it!

Emotionally Speaking

It seems as though the older I get, I'll be 47 this month, the more emotional I've become. What's up with that? I find myself with blurry eyes as I watch movies that tug at the heart strings... and, I also watch American Idol (yes, I'm comfortable saying both of those things). However, emotional movies and American Idol are not my point. Hopefully, I can tie them together. I heard American Idol contestant, Phil Stacy sing "The Change" by Garth Brooks, and he spoke of how this song, from the "Fresh Horses" CD, was released after the 1995 Oklahoma City Bombing. I have to say, it's one of those songs that hits me; when I let my mind take me back to that day's events and how Oklahoma City came together with incredible acts of bravery and heroism. I was profoundly moved when I took Hunter and Haley to the "OKC Bombing Memorial" almost to the point that I couldn't continue the tour. This song takes me back and I remember....