8 Ways to Thank a Veteran, not just on Veteran's Day, but everyday

     Today Is Veteran's day, and I would like to say that I am eternally grateful to all those who have served, who are serving, and all those that will serve our Nation in any capacity.     This holiday reminds us to appreciate those who have done  what all of us were not able or willing to do for our country; defend it with their lives.

    Most will celebrate today by posting on Facebook, enjoying a day off, going to see the parade in town, and maybe taking a family member who has served out to a meal. Dedicating a day on the calendar to our Nation's servicemen and women is awesome, but November 11th shouldn't be the only day we extend our gratitude for all the sacrifices that were made.  Here are 8 ways to honor veterans everyday.....

• Are you a knitter or crocheter? Make a scarf for the cold-winters ahead. Donate them at a local-VFW for a veteran in need or contact Operation Gratitude to see how to donate.
•  Support a Military Family through Operation Homefront. Watch their website for 'current needs':  http://www.operationhomefront.net/need/list
•  Military-member at the same restaurant as you? Send them a drink or pay for their dessert.
•  Call them. A grandparent, uncle, aunt, mother, father. Take the time to call them, especially if they live far away, and find out how they are doing.
•  Listen to their stories with interest. If they are a war-veteran they have seen things you will never see. Listen and Learn.
•  Nearly 40 percent of our veteran population is 65 or older, give a veteran your phone number and ask them to call if they need help around the house. Make a note to call them this winter to see what they need.
•  Have your children paint a picture or write a letter. Send it to your grandparent, parent, aunt, uncle, brother, sister, any relative that is a Veteran.
•  Call and Visit a local nursing home or VA Hospital. Find out what you can do to help. If you quilt make a blanket for a needy veteran. If you bake call and find out if you can bring in something special. Bring a book to read to a veteran "ready and willing" to listen. We all have talents that can be used.