DAY 12 NYC HERE WE COME...VIA ATLANTIC CITY?

ATLANTIC CITY-Down by the boardwalk......

The Boardwalk was built in 1870-today an adult playground designed to take all of your money.  Never been here.  Had to see where all that Miss America stuff takes place.  I did bring my swim suit and evening gown for the "talent" portion...;)   From the shiny gold garish Trump's Taj Mahal to some very seedy hotels and sights welcome to Atlantic City home of gambling (11 casinos-glittering monuments to the Saint of Betting) in the state of New Jersey.  What a hodge podge- high end to lowest end.  It looks like an attempt was made at refurbishing the city but God only knows what the plan or vision was/is???  Memo to Trump, politicians and the unions...should have bulldozed the whole place down, got a master plan (with some green and clean) and went with a 50 year plan.  This place looks like ZONING and PLANNING GONE AMUK.  I can see why Bert Parks retired...youza!  I did miss the showdown of Ann Coulter and James Carville a few day ago...now that was a fight I would have wanted a ringside seat for!    But hey Dick Cheney is speaking Sept 18 at their summer speaking series-in Atlantic City.  Who knew?   Of course I only have eyes looking for the Jerseylicous Gang-you go Snookie!  Lot's of look alikes down here...we are talking way too much hair product and orange skin from those spray booths-yikes!
And p.s. it was nice to know I left my NEW slacks and 2 blouses back at the last Hotel.  After ironing them, I managed to leave them in the armoire....I knew that ironing thing was overrated...grrrrr.  So what have you left behind in your travels?  Any tips on how now to leave stuff in your hotel room??

NYC SECRET SERVICE REUNION
Bubba where will we park this huge beast?  Too big for our hotel?  They did give us locations for Gracie the Gas Guzzler- starting rates $70 a day, hello valet.  Night after night Bubba has to rearrange the mess that is created daily while mumbling a couple of choice words.   Pleep jumps up and down as he sings along the mantra while I cover Sis's ears.  We can never find the paper towels when needed....I am sure that little rascal hides them amongst other things...like my missing camera charger.  And I am sure Pleep had something to do with those clothes left behind...

DAY 11 IOCC/Baltimore AND DOVER AIR FORCE BASE FISHER HOUSE FOR THE FALLEN

INTERNATIONAL ORTHODOX CHRISTIAN CHARITIES
The IOCC is a humanitarian aid agency of Orthodox Christians established in 1992.  In the spirit of Christ's love, offers emergency relief and development programs to those in need world wide.  We had the opportunity to stop and meet the Executive Director "Dean" Triantafliou, Lou Zagami/Development Officer and Megan Carniewski/Outreach Coordinator.  Delivering aid in Bosnia and Haiti are examples of locations they service.  We were very impressed with the work they have done and what they have on the horizon to accomplish. Thank you for sharing the story and time with us.  See you in Romania next summer!   Bravo and God Bless. We remember all of you at IOCC in our prayers!  For more information about this organization please check out their web site  www.iocc.org

DOVER AIR FORCE BASE/ FUTURE FISHER HOUSE/ FAMILIES OF THE FALLEN SUPPORT

The final journey, where every day is Memorial Day.  Those who work at the Department of Defense's only mortuary in the continental US see first hand the grim reality of war.  Nearly 75% of the more than 350 people assigned to support the Charles C. Carson Center for Mortuary Affairs, are traditional reservists.  Operating out of Dover Air Force Base, the Center for Families of the Fallen, we found dedicated professionals experienced in the mental health field who specialize in case management and grief support.  Newly established in Feb 2010, their mission is to provide resources, support and information to help family members adapt to life without their loved ones.  And right now a "special" Fisher House and Meditation Center is under construction.  Dedication and opening are on target for November of this year.  Robin  Raine is Chief, Families of the Fallen Support Branch, Air Force Mortuary Affairs Operations Center, Dover Air Force Base.  She also leads teams of professionals who provide care, service and support to families of war fallen from all branches of service who travel to Dover AFB to witness the dignified arrival of their loved one back to American soil.  The US government instituted a much needed program to pay for expenses so immediate family members can receive their loved ones at Dover.  Robin said about 75% now participate in coming to Dover. This Fisher House "Manager" will indeed have a different mission than her fellow managers and she is just the right person to take on this huge task and responsibility.  Talk about grace, kindness and commitment...she has been a reservist since 1986, U.S. Air Force Reserve Command, Travis Air Force Base/Calif.  Coupled with Senior Master Sgt. Ty Williams they are quite the Team.  He started his military career at Lackland/AFB/Texas and will be going to Afghanistan in a few months to complete his last year of service.  You take care Ty and we'll see you when you get back- a cold one on our patio with Bubba is in order.  God bless you both for the phenomenal job you do in such a heart wrenching  task.  Thank you for the tour of the beautiful facility.  You all have gone to great lengths to design and appoint such a comforting place for the families.

For more information on this mission  www.mortuary.af.mil/familiesofthefallen/index

Mr. John Mc Grath saw me taking pics of the Fisher House and stopped his car to let us know "I am building that house- the proudest accomplishment of my work life  In 1968 my brother came through this base- killed in Viet Nam.  I remember it like it was yesterday.  It has been very emotional for me and the guys to be on this project-we have watched families come through to pick up their loved ones remains.  And yeah, I cry.  As a matter of fact I wrote a poem...."


John we are sorry for your loss.  Memory Eternal!

DAY 10 BETHESDA NAVAL HOSPITAL AND FISHER HOUSE FOUNDATION

BETHESDA NAVAL HOSPITAL FISHER HOUSES
Two houses- one under renovation and 3 being built!  How's that for having a plateful.  While we regret we didn't get to meet the obviously talented and very busy Becky Wood, we can see that she has been a very busy lady.  With the closing of Walter Reed she will have 5 houses to manage at a very busy military hospital.

FISHER FOUNDATION
We also stopped by to meet David Coker (retired Army Major), President of Fisher House Foundation.  While stationed at Simmons Army Hospital in Colorado and following his wife's lead,as a Fisher House volunteer, he became so enthusiastic about the concept that he started a "Fisher House Foundation" to support the house and families.  Mr. Zachary Fisher so loved the concept and said- hey we can do this on a national scale, how about helping us start it up Major Coker?  So when Dave "retired" he became the first employee of the Fisher Foundation- a real one man band.  While the Fisher family is based out of New York, Dave suggested an office in DC, close to the military folks would be a good idea.  You bet.  Under Dave's insightful leadership and dogged determination to continue to serve our military and their families coupled with Zachary Fisher and family's vision, huge generosity and love of our military and country the foundation was in motion.  Today the Fisher Foundation does so much for so many: a vision for 100 plus Houses (46 now at 18 military installations and 15 VA  locations with several in the pipeline (predominately at VA hospitals due to the extensive after care needed), Miles for Hero's, Scholarships and of course the Intrepid Museum (housed in an aircraft carrier) in NYC.   As we acknowledge the 100th anniversary of Zachary Fisher's birth this September (he passed in 1999) his success story as an immigrant to the US and sharing that success with the military ( unable to serve in the military due to a physical limitation he paid for the first 25 Fisher Houses out of his pocket)-as well as other philanthropic donations.  This  example of an American success story is an inspiration to many.  Keith's most admired of the labels and awards that Zachary Fisher  received, is that of Honorary Veteran.  This award has been bestowed on only two individuals- the other being Bob Hope.  It is pleasure to sing his praise and share his story.  Memory Eternal!

Dave's calm demeanor and quiet resolve is the perfect person  serving as the Foundation's President.  His humbleness reflects the Fisher family's philosophy to a tee.  Never no mind- he will always be Super Dave to us!  Thank you for your service Major Coker.  And a huge shout out to one of the most generous and steadfast patriotic families this country has know- God Bless the Fisher family.

Please check out their website for more information and how you can participate.  National or at your local Fisher House.  Being a Friend of the Fisher House is an absolute opportunity to make a difference.  www.fisherhouse.org

DAY 9 ANDREWS AIR FORCE BASE AND WALTER REED ARMY HOSPITAL

Andrews Air Force Base Fisher House How's that for a welcome smile.  Janet Grammp, Fisher House Manager and woman of many talents and energizer bunny.We were amazed at all the extra projects and volunteering that she is involved in ( to name a couple, Red Cross, Parents and Children Fighting Cancer)-we couldn't figure out when she slept.  When we showed up Monday morning we found her bounding down the stairs with a clothes basket filled with sheets and towels..."no housekeeper today and you have to do what you have to do".  This Air Force kid also joined the Air Force and was one of the first woman in her class in 1979 to attend the Air Traffic Controller School (yup, 25 guys and me).  As a matter of fact Janet met her husband another Air Force Air Traffic controller, had four kids and now a son and daughter in law are also Air Traffic Controllers.  Janet has been the House Manager since they broke ground in 1994.  "It's not a job, it's a life's work.  This house is mine, every ounce of it!"  Janet's beautiful garden is a peaceful respite for her guests. "The Fisher House is an invaluable resource to Joint Base Andrews-a true home away from home for military families during a time of need", said Col. Robert Miller, 779 Medical Wing Commander.  "The personalized support is second to none, thanks to the staff and volunteers.  We are very lucky they are here".  You've got that right Colonel!   Janet is a great example of Zachary Fishers motto "Anyone who is a guest should be treated as they were a guest in my home".   Our hats off to you Janet for all that you do!

WALTER REED ARMY MEDICAL CENTER/ WASHINGTON DC

 Two Fisher Houses here and  Two Great People to manage them-House Manager Maurice Borde and Ast. Manager Rebecca Skinner.  This tough post has some seriouskly injured soldiers.  God Bless all of the staff (a friend of ours is a nurse there) for the care and phenomenal treatment.  One of things we learned about was the "music therapy" program helps with their healing and brain reordering.  Bubba said- can I give it a whirl?

 I saw this machine and thought wow an ATM-great idea.  Not.  This machine allows the soldier to print up all of their medical records, right there at the Fisher House.  After many years taking care of our Wounded Warriors,Walter Reed is slated to close next year.  Most of the soldiers care will be moved to Bethesda Naval and will become more a "joint medical facility".
We observed this young Wounded Warrior work out- a double amputee determined to get in shape and conquer his "wound".  It was heartwrenching, humbling and inspiring to witness his determination and can do attitude.  Bubba said back in his day the soldier would have been wheelchair bound for life. With today's technology and medical care there is hope for healing for many. In spite of some horrific wounds and medical conditons this was another example of a wounded warrior on the road to recovery.   Please keep them in your prayers.



AN EVENING WITH SOME FLORIDA FRIENDS

Deb and Bill Anderson have lived in DC the past 5 years when he was appointed by our then President (Bush) as the Under Secretary of the Air Force.  Bill was formerly a Jack Walsh protege with GE in Connecticut so I am sure the switch from the private sector to the "military" was beyond fascinating.  We enjoyed happy hour at their oh so chic condo. No wonder Deb looked "hot" in that red hot Versace-she has a built in stairmaster with 3 floors and a roof top patio-with a view of the National Monument, oh yes please invite us back for some of those 4th of July fireworks  It was fun catching up and hearing about life in DC and current projects.  No grass will grow under the Anderson's feet.  These Patriotic folks do much to help others.  Dinner at 701 was scrumptious.  While Sis behaved nicely, after a few too many Bannna Daquari's the Pleepmeister tabled hopped looking for anyone who worked at the White House who would take his message to the boss- "Knock it off, already".

Building Homes For Wounded Heroes- sent from a DEAR FRIEND.

Thank you Dan Vargas!  I'd like to introduce you to one special guy.  Retired Wounded Warrior who is relentless in his commitment to helping other Wounded Warriors.  It is amazing that these fellows who so bravely served their country continue to do so.  Dan lives in the San Antonio area and is the Executive Director for Operation Finally Home (aka BABA- Bay Area Builders Assoc.).  This phenomenal organization started with the Bay Area Builders Association out of the Houston Texas locale.  Ok so now you know why I drink that special BABA Wine....coming soon when we visit you!  Please check out their web site posted on our favorites and do take a few mins to watch this news clip with an example of the awesome work they do...

DAY 8 AUGUST 21 WASHINGTON DC ON THE HUNT FOR CHURCH...

 St. Lukes Serbian Orhtodox Church Potomac, Maryland...but no one is there???  a sign says to be developed?  but the web site sent us here.  A quick sign of the cross and we see

Antiochian Orthodox Church

next door?  well let's try this one....we sat in the parking lot and Bubba said no no we're on a mission we have to find those Serbs!...where is St. Lukes...get on that Google...Bubba we're in the wrong state?  It's not in Maryland it's in McLean Va???  ok let's race over there...

St. Lukes Serbian Orthodox Church?
Mclean Va
It's always  wonderful walking into church late...yikes.  I gave myself the evil eye!  Bubba, where are we???  who's on first?  Can I count this for 3 Church visits on my Bucket List where I have  a To Do of attending church at 50 different  Orthodox Churches?  After all this frantic driving around- hey, look out for the pot hole! boom! Car alignment?  Alignment?  we don't need no stinking Alignment.  I'm counting today as 3 !  Whew.......

Bubba mentions to Father John Vitko we had our signals crossed this morning so pardon us for our late entry.  Christ is in our midst! He is and ever shall be! Well maybe not so much on the Internet and GPS....in fact there are 2 St. Luke Serbian Orthodox Churches within a few miles of each other???  At one time they were one...but you know how some of us Serbs can be (think Planet Blago)- ask Bubba, he is just starting to get used to it after 34 years, but then again maybe not so much.  Father John and Popadija Kitty invited the congregation to join them after services for the blessing of their new home.  Now how's that for one big happy family!  We were happy as Traveling Ambassadors for OCMC (Orthodox Christian Mission Center) to find St Luke's and a warm and friendly parish people

Nothing a stop off at The Old Ebbit Grill won't cure....ok after some sustenance (our favorite place for Oysters- last visit Bubba and our son Nick ate 6 dozen) and a glass of vino we are ready for one more church.  Hey Bubba, that counts for communion, right?  Nice try Boca, Onward and upward ...

Ok over to the NATIONAL CATHEDRAL....yes Bubba you can be a tourist and wear your shorts....they started building this magnificent Cathedral in 1907 and finished it up in 1990!  If you haven't been up the hill to see it on your DC trip it's worth the trek.  Whether in the majestic space of the nave or in the intimacy of the smaller chapels, you'll fin a place for prayer and quiet reflection at the CATHEDRAL.

We are particularly fond of the Fredrick Hart reliefs-images designed to teach Christian beliefs and reveal the presence of God while paying tribute to our country's history and values.  Fredrick was the artist that sculpted the "2nd" Viet Nam Memorial of the 3 service men.  As a matter of fact we had the opportunity to meet him and acknowledge his outstanding sculpture.  I reminded Fredrick of how we knew his work....when he first ventured into commercial  art world I saw an exhibit of his work in Chicago.  I was so mesmerized and was appreciative of the Viet Nam Sculpture he did, I thought hey, how bout this for a deal?  I'll buy one of his sculptures IF he signs a print of the 3 Service Men (really a poster) and this will be for my Bubba-his Welcome Home GI.  The manager of the Gallery didn't think this was possible...and being Boca I assured her that indeed it was VERY POSSIBLE.  Take my number, I live in Florida, just let Mr. Hart know my husband is a Viet Nam Vet.  He'll get it.  So sure enough a couple of weeks later a call from the gallery, "Mrs. Collins, Mr. Hart will be happy to sign a print for your husband. "   And I must say this was and still is the best gift I have ever given Bubba....

Keith,
With gratitude and esteem for service to your country.
Fredrick Hart

After some intensive matting and framing Keith proudly displayed that "poster" in his office for years.  Fredrick vividly remembered this unusual request.  Not only was he a talented artist, his kindness and gratefulness for our Vets was awesome.  Fredrick died a few years later.  We also met his wife in on a visit to  St. Augustine last year.  I retold the story to her and yes she was also familiar with this unusual request.  May his Memory and Art Be Eternal!

This is the 2nd largest Cathedral in the country and the 4th largest in the world....my favorite section is  the 7th floor...what a view of DC.  Today we spent much of the day praying for a very special young man......light a candle, say a prayer, be at peace.

DAY 7 OUR NATIONS CAPITAL WASHINGTON DC

Our old stomping grounds...Keith was stationed here on the Kissinger Detail and I went to grad school at George Washington University back in the 70's- he with his fu Manchu mustache and me with my Dorothy Hamill hair cut.  Oh yeah, we were all that!  I'll never forget the first tuition bill Bubba received from GW- "Honey there has got to be a mistake. It can't be $5000 for one semester!  Hell, my total bill at Florida State University was less than that!!".  "Oh yes dear Bubba, what is that saying?  something about you get what you pay for?"  In spite of tuition flashbacks it is always a pleasure and joy to visit our nation's capitol regardless of who is living in that White House.  NO tour of the Bureau of Engraving this time- Bubba couldn't stand to witness what so many of us are complaining about- gold?  gold?  we don't need no stinking gold...he did find a souvenir that would be quite useful for Boca....

Ha Ha Bubba.  We have only been reported to the Front Desk 2 times since we arrived...yes he brings the Green Smoothie Machine into the Hotel.  Not only does that Vitamixer sound like a cement MIXER but my darling Bubba somehow manages to get that Green Slime all over the walls and the maid thought it was some sort of Toxic Waste.

 On the other hand he can't quite understand why we need to travel with a portrait of my little Lu Lu...duh.  Not to be left in the car of course  .I must say the the Pleepster and Sis have been behaving remarkably well this trip.  I think that Monkey Behaving Bootcamp actually worked.  I must find the one for Road Tripping Husbands.

So onward to the Memorials....with an abbreviated trip it was all about the Memorials.  First stop Arlington National Cemetery- Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.  This is a tough one for Bubba as one of his high school buddies served as a Guard here then went on to Viet Nam and was killed in action there.  It is amazing how those young Guards can keep their "cool" in this heat.  Next stop WWII Memorial- we really love the size, the States etched in stone, the stars and the very lively water spout and pond- bringing so many people to sit, cool off and remember.  We came here for the dedication in 2004 and so enjoyed the Greatest Generation...hey Bubba why don't they have a WWI Memorial?


And we always save the BEST for last.  THE WALL  It is always good to see so many people visit the WALL.  And it is always a heartfelt visit for Bubba- he served in Viet Nam in 1966-67.  The visits never get easier or less emotional.    While Bubba is not one for displaying too much emotion in public, this is one place he can't stop the tears from rolling down his face.  Seeing those names brings it up close and personal.  I thank you for your service Sir..  I know he suffered as a young man who served in combat and coming home to a pretty much ungrateful nation must have been tough. I am thankful that our  soldiers coming home today do not have that type of homecoming. I thank you Viet Nam Vets for your service and sacrifice.   The Memorial Volunteer who spoke to the crowd reminded us "Please thank our returning military and all for with out them there would be no freedom".  Amen.

DAY 6 MCGUIRE VA MEDICAL CENTER/ RICHMOND Va AND SOME SECRET SERVICE FUN

WAYNE'S WORLD....
I have never seen shinier floors in my life.  And rest assured Battalion Command Sergeant Major Wayne Walker makes sure of that.  After a career in the Army and serving in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom with the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry).  Wayne proved himself to be an effective combat leader earning him the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two stars, Meritorious Unit Citation, NATO medal and the Combat Action Badge, giving Wayne the distinction as the Department of Veteran Affairs most decorated Fisher House Manager.  Wayne was hired in 2007 to supervise the construction of this Fisher House.  And what a job he did!

Wayne's first hand experiences in witnessing combat related injuries and his love of military families and continuing desire to help veterans has made Wayne the perfect fit to fill the critical role as Manager of the McGuire Fisher House.  This VA Medical Center proudly serves veterans and active duty soldiers in the Poly Trauma Level 1 unit and a Spinal Chord Injury unit.  It is the 3rd largest VA in the country and the second largest building in Virginia (the Pentagon is the largest).

Wayne shared the plans to develop his "backyard"- pondless water feature,screened in gazebo, and a bar- b- que area as well as  more space for the guest to enjoy the outdoors.  This will be the frosting on this Fisher House's cake.  We can't wait to come back for some pulled pork and a dose of meditation out by the water feature.  We are sure his family's will appreciate this area which should be under way this fall.

Thank you Wayne for your service to your country and your continued service as Fisher House Manager.  Keith said "he looks too young to have spent 25 years in the Service"...you go Wayne.


BOOM BOOM CRAVATO
We then stopped off in Bowling Green to visit Keith's former boss on the Kissinger Detail (35 years ago!)-the infamous Boom Boom Cravato.  And I sure learned how he earned that nick name.  This Marine has his own Camp LeJeune shooting range in his backyard....amongst other toys and treasures.  His love of shooting (while in the New York Field Office- was the Shooting Instructor  Par Excellance).

Twenty three acres of manly fun.  Boom Boom raises the bar for defining Man Cave.  The only thing missing for Bubba was a tractor.  I asked Boom Boom if there was anyway I could send Bubba up for the fall shooting season and did he need a chef?  One of Boom's specialty is neighborhood ground hog hunting-mmmmmm.  Who knew this Italiano from NYC was a country boy at heart.  It was a joy to visit this tuff Marine- come see us in Florida Boom Boom Boom Boom!

ONE MORE ITALIANO....
Another walk down memory lane was having dinner with retired Special Agent SS Rocky DelMonaco.  Bubba and Rocky also go back many beers I mean years.  And his darling wife (love is better the second time around for sure!) Eileen-also Italiano.  So of course we had to go to Portofino's and mange mange.   After dinner and a few Martini's they took us over to a home they just bought and moving in this weekend....I so love my room and the hot tub.  God Bless this soon to be Italian Villa!

Day 5 NAVAL MEDICAL CENTER FISHER HOUSE/PORTSMOUTH VIRGINIA

The Fisher House program began in 1990 when founders Zachary and Elizabeth Fisher paid off the remaining mortgage on a six 2-bedroom unit apartment building in Portsmouth Virginia operated by the Chisolm Foundation.  The apartments, located several blocks outside the main gate of the Portsmouth Naval Medical Center, became the first Fisher House facility.  The first two Fisher Houses designed and built by the Fishers opened in 1991- at the National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, Maryland and Walter Reed Army Medical Center, Washington DC.  A year later, the Air Force received its first Fisher House-at Wilford Hall Medical Center, Lackland Air Force Base, Texas.  Today we had the privilege to visit the very first one!  While Loretta Loveless (House Manager since 1995) was out today we were left in the capable and loving hands of the Ast. Manager- the lovely Candice Edwards (since 1999).  Candice drives an hour each way to "work".  More like a calling.  "I love people and try to do whatever it takes to take care of them".  She loves being in touch with former guests via the Internet.  Since OIF (Operation Iraqi Freedom) they have seen a lot of foot and leg injuries.  Some of the new prosthetic legs have tattoos and hair!  Candace manages the large DVD collection-each room has a DVD player and many find watching a movie in their room relaxing.  The House was recently renovated and what a magnificent job.  Candace and Keith both admired the new kitchen cabinets and the workmanship throughout.  We are talking pristine clean and inviting.

We met one of the guests- the wife of an Army Cook and an Army person herself (Quartermaster).  Her husband was in the hospital and she was there to comfort and help care for him.  Very much the Fisher philosophy..."because a family's love is good medicine."  This couple is part of the Married Couples Program-they are always stationed together.  She was very grateful for being able to stay at the Fisher House.  Way to go Loretta and Team!

On the way out we stopped at Colonial Williamsburg....hadn't been there since we lived in DC many moons ago.  Yup, still looks the same.

DAY 4 THE OUTER BANKS/NAGGS HEAD NORTH CAROLINA

Sis and the Pleepster so enjoy sunning on the dash....

OBX
Ok so how many of you have heard of the Outer Banks?  Been there?

The Outer Banks is a 200 mile long string of narrow barrier islands off the coast of North Carolina.  We needed a day in between 4 Fisher House visits to enjoy the scenery a bit.  This major tourist destination for sons of the south is known for a temperate climate and a wide expansive open beach front. In 1958 the Cape Hatteras National Seashore was established to protect these beautiful dunes. We saw where the Wright Brothers first flight took place- hello Kitty Hawk.  And of course Pleep kept looking for his favorite pirate Blackbeard.  Finding out the pirate met his maker here had Pleep wave his sword around just a bit more.  There are very few hotels/motels here.  Most folks rent a beach house and stay for "awhile".

Lots of kayaking, surfing, windsurfing, kiteboarding and of course parasailing.  Now that we are within the weight limit we'd rather watch from the bar.  With all that beach traffic naturally there were many souvenir shops.  What poses us to buy absolutely crazy crap while on vacation and take it home and come to our senses and find a home for it in the garage....but is sure fun looking!  After catching a few rays on the dashboard Sis begged for a tie dyed hoodie....

Boca couldn't quite decide which pair to get....so what could she do but AM X the both of them...hmmm wonder how they will play back home???

 So North Carolina's answer to the Hamptons- quite lovely.




Time you enjoyed wasting, is not time wasted.  T.S. Elliot

DAY 3 FISHER HOUSE WOMACK ARMY HOSPITAL/FORT BRAGG NORTH CAROLINA

Since 1993, the Womack Army Medical Center Fisher House has supported the Fort Bragg and Pope Air Force Base Communities in their time of need.  In addition to providing a "home-away-from-home" for families of patients at Womack and the Fayetteville VA Medical Center, the Fort Bragg Fisher House has been home to families whose loved ones were killed in several tragic accidents. And they have just the right House Manager to take care of all of it- Paula Gallero.  Paula has been the House Manager since 1995 and her love of Mr. and Mrs. Fisher was evident.  She too had the privilege to know the Fishers and be a part of their "dream".  We also met her "Dream Team"- the assistant house manager, Shawna Crouch as well as some of the most determined and committed volunteers you will ever meet.



We had the opportunity to have lunch with the Dream Team.  Two of the ladies husbands are stationed on base so we learned a lot about what it's like to be the wife of a career military man.  Who knew!  It is definitely a team sport for the family in every way.  In most cases, the wife is far away from her family and support group and is "left" to find a way for herself and her family.  Never mind being tense about what your husband (or wife) is up to job wise. We laughed at the quote "if the Army wanted you to have a wife we would have issued you one!"  One of the "non-wife" volunteers started up a local Friends of Fisher House 501 C3- no easy task I assure you.  I shared one of my dreams-a national data base for the military and their families that they can go to to find out about all the services and resources that are available to them.  In addition this would also help those providing all of these services and resources to know the bigger picture as well.  And finally, it may help eliminate some redundancy and help streamline all the efforts being made on behalf of our military, families and Vets. Now only to find a data.com company to fund this dream......  As Keith and I crisscross the country we meet so many wonderful people and organizations doing God's work in helping and supporting our troops, families and Vets.  We constantly introduce one to another...synergy baby!  Of course this is just a drop in the bucket but I try to keep in mind the tale of the little boy walking down the beach after a big storm had washed up millions of star fish on the beach and stranded them.  And the little boy picks one up and throws it back into the sea and an old man watching him asked  "there's a million of them on the beach.  What difference does throwing one back make?"  and the little boy answered "it made a big difference to that one..."

Paula and Team- we salute you.  We left with way more than we brought.   We are in awe of the caring, kindness and love you give to the Fisher House at Fort Bragg. God Bless!

www.armyfisherhouses.org/army-fisher-house-location/fort-bragg-nc/