Remembering 9/11/01

It is amazing to think that 5 years have already passed since that horrific day in New York, at the Pentagon & in Pennsylvania.

I was sitting in my vehicle this morning and at 8:45 the radio station that I was listening to had a minute of silence in remembrance of the first plan hitting the first tower. I actually sat and cried as a million thoughts went through my mind.

I was living in Springfield, VA at the time and that is a mere 15 miles from the Pentagon. I remember hearing a BOOM and within a minute we heard on the news that the Pentagon had been hit as well. It was terrifying. That night we as we laid in bed we heard the F16 airplanes above the apartment building patrolling the airspace and they were armed. I couldn't help but think that this is how many people in other countries go to bed every night due to war and civil unrest.

Within 9 days of the attack I had to fly from Washington, D.C. to Toronto and then take a train to Montreal as my final immigration hearing has been scheduled. I was 6 months pregnant and had to make the trip all on my own. I waited in line at the airport for more than 4 hours. So many thoughtful people helped me with my bags or pulled up chairs so that I could rest. I have NEVER been afraid to fly. I have been to Thailand for crying out loud!! Once I got checked in and through the security check point I sat down and wept. I was frightened for myself and for my unborn baby - my sweet Bryden.

So, from that extreme to another....on this day last year I was bringing home my little Landen from the hospital. It was such a happy day. There was not time to reflect on what had been lost because I had just gained such a beautiful little treasure.

I pray that everyone will always remember the events of 9/11/01 and be so grateful for the free countries that we live in. I am blessed to be a citizen of Canada and a resident of the United States. Some people never belong to a safe country and I belong to 2. I am so fortunate and I will never take my freedom for granted and I will always be grateful for the men and women, many of whom are mothers and fathers, for the sacrifice that they are making to keep us safe.

Never Forget!!