Katie's daycare celebrated today with an "I'm Proud to be an American" day. Danny and Lisa came with me to church for a 9/11 memorial service. I was glad that the kids were involved in activities that compelled us to take another heartbreaking look not only what happened last year, but to talk about why it happened.

Teaching patriotism to kids isn't easy. They say things like, "Mom, that is SO 1950's." But remembering the events of 9/11/01 -- including what we saw for ourselves in New York City on our vacation last November -- helps remind me why it's important to do so. Even if the kids think you're a little bit goofy for loving America so much.