A True Story

 Well, I just let myself get down in the dumps and wasn't sure how I was going to get out! Ever had that feeling?

Life just gets overwhelming sometimes. But, I am feeling alright now. Whew, glad that's over.

There's not one thing going on around here... so what's this post going to be about?

I guess I'll just tell you a story, a true one at that: I hope it's not a bedtime story and puts you to sleep!

Back in the mid '60s my husband was Communications Officer at the Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md.

That duty was really different for us....so much more social, important events to attend, etc, etc.  At the end of the first year we were involved in the reviewing of the troops, 

 the graduation 

and of course, the traditional 'climbing of Herndon Monument'.  

I had a vantage point to observe as the midshipmen ran out to the monument, which had been slathered with grease, to begin the ascent. They were shirtless, barefoot, ready for the challenge. 

Can you imagine trying to climb a straight up and down a concrete (I guess it's concrete) structure!!! 

They slipped and slid, they'd try again. And, finally one would reach the top to place a hat on top. Mission accomplished! 

The midshipmen are truly dedicated to their studies so for 4 years that is their focus. But, honey, let me tell you! When they graduate there's a line of couples outside the Academy Chapel waiting to tie the knot. They are so many of them that each couple is shuffled in, then shuffled out just as soon as the vows are spoken. There's a schedule to keep, folks. 

I sat on a bench outside the chapel one afternoon and watched a ton of brides and their grooms march inside to become man and wife. Why do they say man and wife? Shouldn't it be husband and wife? Anyway. I hope they all lived happily ever after.