I'm not really sure what to say.

As Sam posted earlier, there was a quadruple murder at around 8:15 this morning. For some reason, this one has hit me hard. Whether it's because it was four police officers killed or because it was in a coffee shop I used to frequent, I'm not sure. I just know that I've fought some tears back today as well as shedding a few. I heard about it this morning at church when one of our pastors made an announcement that his son, a Pierce County Sheriff, had been called in to help the Lakewood Police Dept.

I think maybe that's what has hit me hard this time. Aside from the incredibly brutal, sick nature of the crime, I've hit the point in my life where I have friends who are cops. A girl I graduated with is married to her high school sweetheart, a member of the state patrol. A guy I had yearbook classes with. Three former track teammates are in the process of testing to get into the police academy. Another track teammate used to do volunteer work with the Tacoma PD and is still considering law enforcement. These are people I know and love, and it could have been them.

We really don't thank our cops enough. Like Sam said, we've both decided that from now on, that random coffee or muffin is now on our tabs. It's the least we can do. To quote from earlier today, "I just really feel the need to go hug a cop."

So tonight, I'm grateful for the incredible men and women who put their lives on the line on a regular basis. We don't usually hear much about them unless there's some sort of screw up, and I think we forget about all the good, regular, honest officers who work for us every day.

Despite the tragedy this morning, the day did have a few brighter spots. Here's a list of those things, all of which I'm extra grateful for today, however seemingly small they are.
-My new sweater. Warm, flattering, a really nice orange, and 40% off.
-Our Chrismas tree. It's big and fluffy, smells amazing, and is just tall enough to hit the ceiling. I can't wait to decorate.
-Ed Kofi being at church this morning to speak. If you've never heard me talk about Ed, ask me. He's an incredible Liberian man who has been literally hunted, had his hand almost cut off in an attack, and still has one of the strongest faiths I've ever encountered. I've known him most of my life, and his testimony is always a blessing. Plus, he has an incredibly infectious laugh.
-My mom. We had a really good talk yesterday, and the continuing dialogue is promising.