A new chapter...

I own a gun!! I bought my first gun last night.......
WHY??
Home defense and because I could.
Friday morning on our way to school, I realized that someone had been in my car. Not only had they gotten into my car, they stole my IPOD. Yes it is only monetary, my car was fine, no damage. But they invaded my space. As the economy continues to go up and down, petty crime will continue to rise. So in an effort to defend my home and ensure that my children are safe, I bought a SA-XD 9mm. A little bit scary having a loaded weapon in the house. Yes it is loaded! What is the point of home defense if you have an unloaded weapon?? Might as well put a box of rocks next to your bed, so you have something to throw at the intruder...just sayin....
Now it is time to teach the kids all about gun safety. Not so much for our safety but for their safety and the safety of others. We are not the only people in America that own a gun and have small children. Not everyone will agree with us even having a gun in the house, much less a loaded one. Once upon a time, you didn't cross a threshold without seeing a loaded gun. Guns are a means of protection, not the only means but a means none the less. At some point I will have a concealed permit and our gun will travel with us. While I do not need justification for owning a firearm, here is mine. With DH being active duty, the kids and I spend ALOT of time on our own. We do have a home security system, but all systems can fail. I am of the opinion that most people, even criminals, know that you don't mess with a person that has a gun. I know how to handle a 9mm, (thank you US Army), I am a proficient marksman (I am not an expert, YET), I know basic gun safety and I am a firm believer in education, the more you know the better you can make decisions. Just locking up a gun is not the only way to protect your children. Teaching them what to do when they come across a gun and how to handle themselves is the greatest protection we can give them. I have knives in my house, they are not kept under lock and key, yet the kids stay away from them and when they are found they alert one of us at once. They also know how to handle a knife, they might not cut their own steaks at this point, but they are being taught what to do with a knife. Knife, gun, spoon, fork, shovel, baseball bat all tools; with proper instruction all can be used effectively and safely.
At some point all of my children will learn how to fire a weapon. Another way to take the curiosity and mystery out of guns.
Stay tuned for updates on out efforts to teach the kids about guns and gun safety!!