I was just thinking about a couple years ago, about Dec. 19, when some mothers, fathers and grandparents brought children to the National Guard armory on Kriess Road to see Santa.

You see, their parents were overseas fighting our war, sacrificing their lives so we can live in freedom. I imagine half of those kids did not even understand why their parents were not there, but it didn't dampen their spirits.

Fortunately, my husband works for the National Guard, and at his age he and Family Support made sure Santa arrived and that all of the children got gifts.

I remember that it was snowing outside, a perfect backdrop.

Now I have received news that my grandson, who is a proud Marine, is in Afghanistan. He is in a place with no car, no McDonald's, no malls, no video games, no trips to Grandma's on Thanksgiving and Christmas like he's done for years, never knowing if the next step he takes will be on an improvised explosive device (IED), or if that shadow over the hill will end his life.

But he and all those other soldiers over there are willing to give their lives so we can speak as we please and act as we please.

When I asked what I could do for him, he asked me for some of my chocolate chip cookies.

It got me to thinking. He is willing to give up his life and his freedom, and all he asks for is chocolate chip cookies? How many other men and women over there fighting for us just want a little piece of home?

If every mother, father, grandparent, aunt, uncle or friend would just send these brave men and women a piece of home. All it would take is a few moments of our time and very little money to make them know we care and that we are so very grateful for their service to our country.

Think of that one memory you two have shared and send it off to him or her. It might make you feel better than you expected.

God bless these brave men and women, and God bless America.