One of my most meaningful holiday traditions is spending time with veterans and their families at the Central Arkansas Veterans Healthcare System in Little Rock. This year, I also brought a little extra holiday cheer thanks to handmade Christmas cards from students across central Arkansas.

We also met families staying at the new Fisher House next door while their loved ones receive care, who shared what the Fisher House has meant to them during a difficult time.

Mary and Ashley Shelton told us, "A social worker said we could stay at the Fisher House, and I didn’t know anything about it. We were staying at a hotel. This place is so calming, and we’re thankful to be here.”

We also spent time with Teddy Lawson, who shared simply, “The VA is taking great care of me. I’m alive because of them.”

Every year when I visit the CAVHS at Christmas, I’m humbled by our veterans and inspired by the professionals who care for them. Inevitably, I leave feeling like I've received more than I've given. Serving those who served our nation is a true honor.

Thank you as well to Dr. Anderson, Hunter Hall, and the entire staff at the VA and Fisher House for showing us around and for all you do for our veterans.

Last week’s Trivia: Which former European military officer helped train the Continental Army at Valley Forge and turned it into a disciplined fighting force? 

B) Baron Friedrich von Steuben

While Marquis de Lafayette served as a trusted confidant of George Washington and fought alongside Americans while helping secure critical French support, it was Baron Friedrich von Steuben who reshaped the Continental Army at Valley Forge, instilling discipline and training that helped turn it into a capable fighting force.

25.6% of respondents answered correctly. (44.8% selected "Marquis de Lafayette," 26.9% selected "Casimir Pulaski")

Have a very Merry Christmas and happy holidays! On behalf of my entire team and me, it's been an honor to serve the people of central Arkansas this year, and I'm grateful for the trust you've placed in us. I hope you enjoy the holidays as much as my district team enjoyed their photoshoot - nothing says team spirit quite like Christmas sweaters and awkward poses!