Last night my folks and I drove to wedding in the northern part of the state. We drove about 110 miles up. On the way there we drove along the edge of a town of 460 people and through another town of 169 (at least that is what the signs said on the edge of town). That was it. Other than a few ranches, oil rigs, and the Rim Rock Bar there was no other signs of civilization other than the paved road we were on and the simis that blew past us going way to fast. Sometimes I forget how open Wyoming really is (and how much that open space is part of who I am). I can’t image back east being about to drive 20 miles before see another town (much less 110). One of those moments in which I knew I was back home was when I realized once again that I could see star in front of me. Not up in the sky but straight out at the horizon, stars.

I fly through BWI about three times a month. The only thing more noticeable than TSA screeners are soldiers is tan camo. Everyday 500 members of the US armed forces are flown home from the Middle East to Baltimore and Atlanta for R&R leave. Recently legislation has been passed that will provide money to help the soldiers pay for tickets from Baltimore and Atlanta home, but at this point the money has not trickled down to the enlisted so they are on their own to get the rest of the way home. A number of airlines are now allowing people to make donations of frequent flier miles to help get these men and women home to see there families. You can make a donation of miles at Hero Miles.