Finally have some time this afternoon to make a quick post. We just returned from a quick trip to Maryland (more on that later), it's been full speed ahead. Work has been hectic lately as we bid almost anything that comes our way in an attempt to book some backlog until the economy picks up again. Then there's Little League baseball. We have a game or a practice every night this week. Thank God the season is over this Saturday - one less committment to worry about.

Not to mention the fact that I still have siding missing off my house as I try to replace the old rotten pieces in preparation for a new paint job. What started as a one or two day job has stretched on for over 6 weeks now. There goes my weekend again....

As Close As I Want To Get
Anyhow, I promised to mention the trip to Maryland. It was kind of eerie to have driven through Ashland, VA barely 24 hours before the sniper struck there. Then Monday, on our way back, we drove through Richmond just as the two Mexican nationals were being arrested.

I'm not normally a paranoid person, but it was nice to be home.

They Don't Make 'Em Like That Any More
We went to Maryland to visit my Heidi's family, especially her Grandmother. Nana, as we all call her, is 96 and counting. She is a wonderful Southern Lady with a great knowledge of history. I love sitting with her, asking her about times she's lived through, getting her to pull our old photo albums while she regales the kids and me with great stories of her life.

For example, her late husband - Colonel Gus Herndon - graduated from West Point in 1929 and retired after a lengthy Army career. Nana literally went around the world with him. Their first overseas post was in the early 1930's with the 45th Infantry Regiment (Philipine Scouts), in of all places, Zamboanga, where, in a classic case of history repeating itself, American troops are once again stationed.

Anyhow, it was great to catch up with her. It is never to late to connect with family, especially the older folks. Ask them questions - they love to talk about "the old days" - and you'll find the truth in the old adage "the more things change, the more they stay the same".

The Bonus
Fortunately for us, Heidi's cousin Terrie from Cal-i-for-nye-a was able to schedule her visit to Nana's to coincide with ours. We hadn't seen Terrie since Laurie and Eric's wedding, so it had been quite a while. Terrie was great with the kids, and we were treated to some fine California wine one evening. When are you coming to see us Terrie?

Well that's about it for this time folks, will try to write again soon.