Well, I'm back at it again - blogging, I mean. For some reason, my former blog would no longer allow me access to blog or edit, so I've had to start over. I copied and pasted a few things from the Spencer Gazette but have otherwise started over again. What a nuisance! Anyway, I hope this attempt works better than the first.

Just a quick update on Eric....first, I'd like to say a huge thanks to all of you who have committed to writing him while he is overseas. The calendar has been sent out earlier this week, so all of you should know when you are scheduled to send him something. The letters/cards are already making their way to Afghanistan as I write this. I know Eric will really appreciate the support. For any of you who have not gotten on the calendar but would like to, please just email or call me and I will add your name. Or if you prefer to just write on your own, the address is listed below. Eric also has been keeping a blog on his various experiences that is very interesting.

Spencer Eric L.
4/1/205
Kandahar
APO AE 09355

www.afganistanadventures.blogspot.com

Just a couple of weeks ago, while Eric was on a 10-day leave, our family headed South for some much needed family time. We did a 5 state tour in six days - Missouri, Arkansas, Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi. Among our places of interest were New Orleans, Gulfport, and Gulf Shores. Our favorite was Gulf Shores, AL without a doubt. I think it will be on our future vacation list for sure. Here are some of the pictures highlighting our trip South. Some not so pretty........






Madison & Jordan enjoying some quiet time












An Anabellum home (plantation) in Louisiana










Near the French Quarter in New Orleans













The kids & I with the French Quarter behind us

Gulfport, Mississippi

There was still quite a bit of damage in New Orleans and on the Mississppi coast. Here are just a few images of the aftermath.

Just some miscellaneous pictures I thought you might enjoy.


snack time


Jordan after his Spring concert


Jordan's last day at preschool


Cooling off with snowcones


At the ball game

This year we were able to spend Easter with my family. My mom, stepdad, and niece all came for a visit. And though not the real meaning behind the celebration, there were at least three egg hunts which resulted in more candy than I know what to do with.

Madison celebrated her 8th birthday back in April. Here are a few pictures to recapture her day in the spotlight.

Saying Goodbye

The month of February went quite quickly for us. We spent much of our time working around the house attacking our to-do list before Eric left. And believe it or not, we accomplished everything we wanted to do! When we weren't hard at work, the five of us sat and read or played games, savoring every moment together.On Sunday, February 26th, many people from our church and neighborhood came by to visit and say good bye to Eric. It was a bittersweet time - bitter to see him go and sweet to be surrounded with so many friends who support us. After everyone had left, Eric soon followed. Tuesday afternoon Eric's parents, the kids, and I headed off to see him one last time. Wednesday there were informational classes in the morning and free time in the afternoon. Thursday was the farewell ceremony and lunch followed by our last good byes.I've included pictures of some of our last moments together. If any of you would like to email Eric, I am sure he would love to hear from all of you. His address is: ericlspencer@gmail.com He also has a website of his own that will give updates on his travels over the next 12-18 months. As soon as I get the address I will post it here.