As some of you know, Gene and I, along with Howie's family went to Macon, to Michelle's mothers for Cortlyn's birthday. On Friday, Chris called to wish her a Happy Birthday and we got to talk with him. He told Michelle that there was a video conference on Sunday, so she got on the phone to get information. On Sunday morning, Michelle, kids, Howie and Gene and I piled in her van and went to Ft Stewart, a 2 1/2 hr ride. They had all the families under a tent waiting their turn. Brovo unit went first and they were running behind when we got there. In Charlie company, there were 24 families waiting. We were number 23. We got to see Chris for only 2 minutes, but it was great, not much time for conversation, only we love him. He had hair, which I haven't seen in quite some time and has lost about 20 pounds, but he still looked good, a little tired, but good. He was surprised to see all of us there, but was pleased. The children loved seeing him. He mentioned in an email that he thinks there's another conference this weekend and his unit will go first, maybe a little more time for Michelle and the kids to talk with him. I had tried to change our flight back home, but it would have cost another $570, so I just went on faith that it'd all work out. If we had not been at the end, we would have made our flight. After another 2 1/2 hours back and then another hour to get to the airport in Atlanta, we arrived at the airport about 25 minutes before our flight. If we had not had luggage to check, we might have made our flight, but luggage has to be checked at least 30 minutes before departure. It still worked out, our flight was scheduled for 8:15 pm and they put us on the 9:30 flight without charging us a penalty to change. Now I want to see him again. He is seriously considering re-enlisting, but we'll see.

Joyce, let me know if I can do anything for Cathy when she has her surgery.

I talked to Dad tonight and he had seen the Doctor from Greenville today and the Doctor released him. Told him not to hesitate to call him if he had any concerns or other problems and if at any time, he felt he might be having a stroke, to rush to the hospital. He had that was his best bet to prevent more problems. Dad and I had a good laugh, when I asked what the hospital did to inprove his chances of it not being too bad, and my answer to my question was they would give him a shot for pain for his arthritis as they did before. I hope he has no more problems. Talk to all of you soon.

Boy, do I need a vacation! When you're gone for a week, drive about 2200 miles, get your suitcase in and out 5 times, it's certainly not a vacation. I didn't even get my toenails painted if that tells you anything. But seriously we did enjoy seeing everyone. Lynn was doing great and feels that she's just where God wants her to be. She has a nice new house with a very small yard (which is plenty for her needs) and seems to be so happy with Sonya, Lance and the girls nearby. Very happy with a mission-minded church within 10 minutes of her house. Enjoyed seeing Tom and family also in Orlando even though it was a little crowded with all 8 of us in the condo. Little Tommy who is 2-1/2 is also very active. Of course Leah and Tonya and their 12-year old cousin, Alston kept him going at full force. Saw Norma, Rick & boys and Mike and Deonne on Friday and Saturday. Everyone seemed well. Ed & I both definitely want another vacation though.
Because of work and vacation plans, Cathy had to postpone her surgery until August 19th.