Today, Friday of Memorial Day weekend, I was sitting outside on my half-hour lunch break enjoying the sun and drinking a vitamin water. 

My mind began to wander and wouldn’t you know I began to think about Jan, jannypan and how on this holiday weekend she would have made a point to recognize all the fallen soldiers as well as those who returned and are suffering. Whether it be homelessness, medical issues, loss of limbs or family, she was in their corner and always, always wrote for us to honor and share on their behalf.

I started scrolling her profile and read her July 4th, Flag Day, D-Day and Memorial Day posts. Not only did it remind me of Jan and her prolific writing, it also reinforced my pride to be an American citizen and a part of our great country.

Her Memorial Day post also included a YouTube video of Taps.

If you get a chance, spend a few minutes to take a look at the posts I mentioned and the recordings associated with each post. Let's honor a great writer, mentor and friend. 

If you shed a tear like I did… it simply means you’re normal and have a heart.

Jan. We miss you.