Today, as I celebrate Mother’s Day, I cannot help but remember the many things my mother taught me about life, the government, marketing research, and being cheerful to all in dark times.

Although I am not as even-tempered or as cheerful as she was, a lot of what I am was created and nurtured by my mother. While both my parents were democrats, I have little or no doubt that they would be conservatives today, bemoaning the fact that some of the democrat politicians they personally knew and supported have morphed into corrupt progressive ideologues.

A lesson in common sense …

While my Father was out keeping our nation safe – from before the attack on Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941 (Schofield Barracks) to visiting some of the lovely garden spots of the South Pacific with his Field Artillery Battalion until after the war ended in 1945, my Mother was working for the government in the War Department. During times of great hardship, my Mother was always cheerful, helpful, and ready to offer a hand – and often a suggestion on how it might be done better.

Imagine this: a $5 reward for stating the obvious and conserving government money …

Common sense – even uncommon in the government 66 years ago – and they haven’t learned a thing … 

The Justice Department estimates it can save $573,000 through fiscal 2010 by setting up its printers and copiers to use both sides of the paper. –  In a Savings Shocker, the Government Discovers That Paper Has Two Sides - WSJ.com

Bottom line …

Remember your mother today! Be well, be safe and take care of yourself and your family first.

-- steve