We had an interesting time at the VFW meeting.  Actually, our family had never been to such a place, so it was a learning experience.  They served us a great fried chicken dinner (yum, yum) and then presented Katie with her award checks:  $175 from the local post for winning first place in the post, $175 from the district (made up of 18 posts) for winning first place in the district, and - are you ready? - $1250 from the state (made up of 18 districts) for winning second place in the state!!!  There were 4400 entries statewide.  Then Katie read her essay, and they all stood up and clapped loud and long.  Her essay was entitled "Freedom's Challenge," and it was, if I say so myself, excellent.

Pictures were taken, Jessica recorded it all on video, numerous folks congratulated her and us, and several vets told us their varied stories.  After hearing that Katie (Anna to them) was homeschooled, one gentleman told us that he thought homeschoolers were the very best kids.  He had seen a group of homeschoolers do a mime presentation  last year at the county seat's 4th of July celebration, and it moved him to tears; he said he doesn't cry.  He has been a veteran for 40 years, and he said he has NEVER seen a presentation that better honored vets.  Of course, we told him that Katie, Jessica, and Josiah were part of that very presentation! 

Overall, we were deeply honored, and we are all very proud of Katie's success.  To God be the glory!