Aaron in NY & Fran in KY

For part of last week and the weekend Aaron was at West Point. He traveled up there with another CPT, Dean, to be a part of a Junior Leader Panel. The Army sent two officers from each branch to talk to the cadets. He and Dean represented the Armor Branch.

(Dean and Aaron)

Aaron said it was a lot like a town hall meeting. He and Dean were able to share their experiences with their units during deployment and the cadets could ask whatever questions they wanted. The questions ranged from "How do you deal with losses and disappointment?" to "Why are you wearing a stetson?".

He was able to meet up with old roommates and old company mates while he was there. They were also treated to an Army football game. On Saturday, the Black Knights beat the Temple Owls 37-21.

While Aaron was up in NY, Fran came down to visit me. It was great to see her! It has only been a little over a month since I have seen 'the girls' but it seems like forever. Of course one of the first trips we made was to Target. There we were able to finally find the red curtains that had been eluding me.

(I know, they are pretty sheer but with mini blinds I don't need much coverage, just some color!)

On Thursday we wandered to the Peddler's Mall. From what we were told, people can rent a space and put whatever they wanted to sell in it. We weren't quite sure what to expect but were shocked and pleased with what we found.

There were some really neat items. And if I had any decorating sense that place could be a gold mine. There were also a lot of old, weird, nasty things being sold. Remember the old saying 'One man's trash is another man's treasure'? Well we decided it's just sometimes another man's trash!

(One of the many 'interesting' things we could have purchased.)

There was also a random beauty salon in the 'mall'. When we took this picture she must have been out to lunch.

I must admit, I will probably go back there again. You never know what great treasures maybe waiting for me! After a day of shopping Frannie and I decided to try out my fondue pot. It was rough going at first (Burnt chocolate is gross!) but we managed to have a good time and yummy chocolate bananas, strawberries, marshmallows and pretzels.

I was sad to see Frannie go but I know I will see her again soon. I love that she only lives a few hours away. Thanks for coming to visit Chapstick!

(Me and Frannie)

I went on Sunday to pick up Aaron. And if you can believe it there were no delays or cancellations. He is home again, safe and sound!