One of the beauties of Minnesota is that one never knows what the weather will really be like. As I am preparing this column I’m looking out the window to a clear sky, no snow on the ground, and recalling years in my past where I worried about getting out of my driveway because of heavy snowfall. Minnesota is truly a great state!

There are a number of activities happening this month beginning with our honoring Pearl Harbor Day, and more importantly, the significance it has in our nation’s history.  My office gives me one of the best views of the USS Ward gun.  The Ward gun was the gun that fired the first shot of World War II for the U.S., at Pearl Harbor.  Please take a moment to reflect upon the sacrifices made of those who served during World War II, as well as to all who have served their nation.

I also ask that each of us not get overly focused on the commercial aspects of the season but rather take time to be with those who we value most in our lives.  My wife and I recently returned from a short vacation with our family including the three grandkids.  It truly was a blessing to see the wonder in their eyes … their excitement made the trip truly special.  Please take time to let those you love know, once again, how much you value them.  One of the loneliest times in my life was overseas, during the Christmas season, surrounded by many - but not with family.

While I get ready for the New Year, I do want to thank our Veteran Service Organizations and those organizations that support Veterans for the work they have done to ensure that our Veterans are taken care of. One of the biggest issues that we will continue to face will be ending homelessness in Minnesota.  Minnesota is fortunate to have groups such as MACV who work tirelessly to find housing for Veterans in need. But it is not just the Metro area where these needs occur. Whether it’s our Veterans Homes across the state, the work of the Eagles Healing Nest in Sauk Centre or community efforts that go on ensuring our Veterans and citizens have the care they need in a safe and secure place.

Minnesota is a diverse state and because of this we celebrate the holidays in different ways.  But to all of you I want to say thank you for your service and ask that your New Year’s resolution focuses on our journey to bring all of our Veterans “all the way home!”