A very proud moment for our extended family was broadcast to the world on Good Morning America this morning.
Our nephew was interviewed along with two other dads by George Stephanopoulos.
Loreto has been a military man for many years, having served our country in Iraq and Afghanistan through several tours of duty. Needless to say he has missed watching his 4 children grow up, being home intermittently throughout their young lives.
Our niece Danielle, Loreto’s wife, has supported her husband in his career and seen to the upbringing of their children while he ‘s away. They feel blest when he is home with them and knowing Danielle, I’m certain she assures Loreto that he is still very much head of their family.
I’m certain they have their share of problems to deal with, as any family does. However I’m just as certain that military families with loved ones fighting overseas suffer in ways most of us could not even imagine.
Loreto and Danielle have done brilliantly…together and apart. Upon returning from the Middle East, he spent a few years at West Point teaching. And while tending to the needs of her children, she managed to earn a nursing degree and became a pediatric nurse. No slouch, either of them.
I salute our nephew and niece in their determination to do right by themselves, their children, their families, and their community.
Danielle and Loreto carry on the legacy of my mother-in-law and father-in-law. Parents who, by their example, instilled in their 12 children the importance of education, hard work, and compassion for others. All of which continues to pass from one generation to the next with the same dedication to living exemplary lives.
If I sound like a proud aunt…
…i am!!!
………hugmamma.
(Click below to watch the interview with George Stephanopoulos on today’s segment of Good Morning America.)
http://abcnews.go.com/GMA/video/fathers-day-dads-surprised-kids-fathers-day-message-24102898
To Hugmamma-
Mahalo nui loa for this write up! There is nothing in this world that is worth achieving more than the love from family and friends. I’m so blessed to have an ohana (family) who is very supportive in my profession. My family and I would not be where we are currently at, if it was not for the support and love from all our family members in Hawaii and Mainland. Thanks again and I love you! ~Loreto JR
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I’m very touched that you read my very humble piece, Loreto. I wrote from the heart of what has always impressed me about you, Danielle, and your lovely children. I’ve only ever heard about the upside of your life, although it goes without saying…there’s a down-side as well. We all endure both sides of life. You and your loved ones sacrifice so much more…on behalf of others. A big mahalo nui loa to you all from many who, I’m sure, feel as I do. Our appreciation is more than a few words can ever express. I can only try. I love you too…aunty.
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There is plenty to be proud of here! Sorry I missed the interview. Love your photo of Wonderwoman and yourself. It put a smile on my face!
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Very nice of you to leave such a heartfelt comment. And hugs for the flattering remark about moi…glad it made you smile. 🙂
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This is wonderful! What a heartwarming story. This is exactly the kind of stuff that should be on the news more often. Makes me proud, too, and I’m no relation. 😉
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Aaawww, thanks so much. Consider yourself adopted. In Hawaii, islanders welcome all into their…ohana (Hawaiian for “family.) hugs… 🙂
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Hugmamma, You and your family have every reason to be proud. That was an outstanding interview. (I teared up and not many things outside my own family cause me to do that.) Happy Father’s Day to all the fathers in your family! 🙂 —Susan
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hugs for sharing in our family’s pride…and too many hugs to count…to the dads in your family… 🙂
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Thanks hugmamma for your kind words! From the proud mother-in-law, mom, and grandma! Aloha and mahalo (best wishes and thank you) to all dads on this coming Fathers Day!
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You should be very proud, Cindy. “The apple doesn’t fall far from the tree…” You and Jimmy did an awesome job with your “orchard.” hugs…and we’ll be seeing you all later this summer…
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