ANDREW PAUL SEBASTIAN NELSON

"Army Staff Sgt. Andrew P. Nelson, 22, Moorhead, Minn.; died in Muqdadiyah, of wounds suffered when insurgents attacked his unit; assigned to the 1st Squadron, 73rd Cavalry Regiment, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division, Fort Bragg, N.C."

Those were the words published in USA TODAY on August 30th.

"Oh Jan, It's Andrew..."

Those were the words his anguished mother spoke to me at 10:45pm on August 29th.

"He was one to inspire and encourage others."

"He brought Kari (his girlfriend) flowers and left her notes."

"He was a hero!"

"He enjoyed helping the people of Iraq."

"He was a person of honor."

"I was proud to know him; I would like to be more like him."

"He ..."

Many words have been spoken about Andrew in the last week. Many newspapers and television stations have spoken about another fallen soldier. Many tears have been shed. Many people have gathered at churches and at Fort Snelling. Many people have offered sympathy. Many priests have said prayers. Many flags have waved and many military awards given.

One mother mourns.

That mother, my dear friend Suzanne, was inspired to write these words and I copy them here so that all can read them.

" Our hearts and souls have been breaking for those whose lives have gone before Andrew in this tragedy of war and for those who are to come after. May each and every one of you pray for a healing of hearts, an understanding of our fellow man, and a compassion for those in need of God's constant love and grace to live a life that is upright and just. Please continue to be kind and gentle as Mary, Jesus Mother taught us. Your greatest honor of Andrew's life would be to love unconditionally and with a great heart. Rest in Peace Andrew Paul Sebastian Nelson, rest in God's love and ours."

Family Day at the Minnesota Get Together

On Saturday, Mike and I met Monica and Jim and Anita and Rich at the State Fair. We haven't seen each other for a few months so it was good to spend time together and what better setting than the feasting capital of the state. Of course, we sampled lots of food - my brothers "loved" my money saving coupons... We checked out buildings and vehicles, watched the parade, and sampled "beergaritas" at the beer garden... oh and a real highlight was the DFL pavilion where we ran into Lanning and Barb (friends of Jim who are more enlightened)

Overall, it was a very good day - it was nice to be with family!

Princess Kay is an important part of the parade each day.

We posed for the camera; don't know why Jim doesn't want to be seen with us...

They actually have wine sampling at the fair this year; but I passed - $6 for an ounce or two of wine is a little rich for my pocket book ... and there wasn't a coupon! The honey ice cream was a favorite with Mike and Jim.