The House Feels A Bit Empty:

It does...the house is a bit quiet with Ron on the West Coast and Adam On the East Coast. Andrew, Christian and I are right here in the middle of the USA feeling a little lonely for the two big guys. Today, Ron has been gone exactly 5 weeks. I know, you may be thinking that at least he's in the United States or that we are used to him being gone but you know what...I don't think that a person ever gets "used to" the people they love the most being gone for an extended period of time no matter where they are off to. With that said, we wait eagerly and patiently for Ron to come home in just two weeks. We are counting down the days!

As for Adam...he is TDY (for those of you non-military people that means Temporary Duty) to the Norfolk/Virginia Beach area. This is the second year of Adam's commitment to the Accessions Command Teen Panel. Last year Adam applied by sending an application, several essays, a recommendation letter from our Pastor and sent in his grades and was one of 9 students selected from across the country to sit on the panel of military teens. His job is to help come up with ways to improve the lives of military teens stationed in remote areas (not on a military post). It's a leadership opportunity as well. He and the team of students will brainstorm ideas and come up with a presentation that they will articulate to the commanding general...LTG Benjamin C. Freakley...you can read more about him here. Adam is a great guy for the job because he has embraced our military lifestyle and enjoys moving and meeting new people. He has a great attitude. You can ask anyone who knows us and Adam and they will tell you the same. Adam left yesterday morning on 9:00 a.m. flight. Papa Dave met us at the airport to support Adam in his endeavor and to send Adam off with a big bear hug. Thanks Dad! I have to admit; I was a bit nervous for Adam as he navigated by himself through security and on to his gate. Then, I was a bit worried about him finding his way to baggage claim in Virginia and meeting up with "his people." Adam is a very confident young man for just 15 and I should not worry. But, I am his Mom and I only have but one Adam. Adam--we miss you! See you on Thursday. PS...be prudent with your spending. :-)

Love,
Beth