John’s class plaque
Last Sunday we made the two-hour drive to Carlisle, Pennsylvania, for the unveiling of John’s War College Class plaque Monday morning. It was rainy both days, but luckily it stopped for the ceremony. Afterward we had lunch with Ray B., John’s old boss in Guadalajara before heading home.
John with his former classmate Jason
On Wednesday, I walked (!) down to meet the Pink Ladies for happy hour – Tammy, Amy, Roya, Janine, Christine. It was a lovely evening, and we took advantage of the nice weather and set outside. It was great to laugh and enjoy the fresh air and good company!
Since it looks like I’ll be cleared to move soon, John and I booked a last minute trip to Arkansas. We flew into NW Arkansas on the direct flight Thursday evening, and spent Friday with Pete and Ginger at Butterfield Trail Village. Saturday morning we took the backroads so we could see elk around Ponca and Boxley – they were amazing and we were so happy to see them!
The rest of the herd of about 50 had moved farther from the road, but these two guys stuck around.
Pretty Lost Valley
View over the foggy Buffalo River
Leaving Fayetteville in the early morning fog
We stopped by Conway to say hi to Ann and Jim, and meet their darling kitten, Bon Bon. After lunch at Star of India in Little Rock (where Sami, the longtime owner, greeted John by name – something that always amazes us), we rolled into Hot Springs. We’ve rented a lovely house just feet from the water with a lovely view and covered porch. It is so relaxing and quiet – I just love it. Yesterday, John went to see his friend Russ in Mt. Ida, and David and Alison came to pick me up to spend the day together (we’re just a couple of bays away from them). We had lunch with their good friend and neighbor PeeWee – a nice relaxing day. After all the trauma of the last few months, we’re both happy for a change of scenery that still allows me to recuperate and take it easy!
David & Alison left us a welcome basket!