HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DAD!

Sure, it's true that I would probably not want the dad to read the blog, but it is nevertheless his birthday and should be noted. Not, perhaps, feted, because he hates birthday celebrations (and surprises, and fuss or to-do of any sort -- he must be so baffled by having a daughter like me, who lives for such things!), but noted, at minimum.

Oh, and happy Veterans' Day, and thank you to all veterans and current soldiers and sailors and their families for giving them up to serve for our country. (Dad's a veteran, too, so it's a double day for him.)

It's a funny thing: I'm not in favor of this preposterous exercise in Iraq, but I absolutely respect and admire and appreciate every single member of the rank and file who's over there. Thank you!!!