"Any job a man can do in this world is a good job as long as he works hard at it and does his best. God didn't put sweat in a man's body for no reason. He put it there so he could work hard, cleanse himself, and feel proud."
-Charles Ingalls
Matt's company awarded him a Silver Snoopy this week. We were treated to a really nice dinner at their conference center up in the mountains. A few "high-ups" in the company were there as well as a couple of NASA astronauts expressing their appreciation for the recipients' hard work and dedication. The next day, I went out to Matt's work for the ceremony itself. The astronauts expressed appreciation again, gave him a framed certificate, and pinned his Snoopy on him.
It was a pretty special couple of days. Matt is well appreciated in his job. Several colleagues shook his hand and told him how well deserved this award was. As his wife, I felt proud of him and thankful for him. Where he works is sort of like a fortress-it's guarded with security, and visitors are not allowed without special permission. So while I was already there for the award ceremony, I got the grand tour of his office(s) and some of the areas he works in. It was a joy to be with him at work and see how much he means to the people there.
What is a Silver Snoopy award???
This is Matt's Silver Snoopy pin. It was created by Charles M. Schulz (the creator of Peanuts) specifically for NASA. It's one of the highest awards to be given to their employees. Less than 10% of the NASA and NASA workcenters' total workforce nationwide receives this award. It's presented for exceptional job performance above and beyond the call of duty. All of the Silver Snoopy pins have flown on a NASA shuttle. Matt's flew aboard the orbiter Endeavor on STS-118.
To say I'm proud of him just doesn't do justice to the way I feel. He's always been a hard worker. He's always wanted more, and always wanted to get further. He sets what can only be described as "lofty" goals for himself, and has never fallen short in achieving them.
Way to go, Matt!! We're SO proud of you!
