Yes, I flew today

A few years ago, I would have balked at booking a flight on 9/11.
Seven years ago, I swore I would never get on a plane again.

But today I flew home from Atlanta into our nation's capital.

The Pentagon Memorial was dedicated today. Some folks have told me they were here on that day. That they saw the smoke and felt the fear. I remember cringing at the sound of jets in Boonville in the weeks following. I cannot imagine having to drive past it on a regular basis.

This evening, the History Channel aired 102 Minutes that Changed America. If you missed it, I encourage you to find it playing again, or visit the website. The program puts together eyewitness videos, without narration, in real time for those 102 minutes. I felt like I was there.

Yes, this is one of those moments that you remember for the rest of your life. Where you were, what you were doing, who you spoke to. I remember the feeling in the pit of my stomach. I remember seeing the second plane hit the second tower. I remember telling Mike to just watch TV because I couldn't talk. I remember teaching my three-year old preschool class with a smile and wondering what was happening (Aly does not remember this event). When school was over at noon, I learned of two other planes and that the towers had collapsed. I remember staying glued to the TV for weeks.

Today, I remembered those 2,973 people and their families. I remembered the soldiers who have, do and will fight. I remembered the strength of our leaders. I said a prayer for them all.

And, yes, I flew today.