Sunday, May 4, 2008

Friday was a beautiful warm day with crystal clear skies and low humidity. The perfect day to view the Airfest at MacDill AFB here in Tampa. We took the bus and two vans with the patients and enjoyed a preview performance at the airfield. The recreation department packed a picnic lunch and we had ringside seats for an absolutely spectacular view of paratroopers, jets, and vintage planes all performing above us. The fellows really enjoyed themselves and Mark was in his element. He knew every single plane and its history and was able to answer everyone's questions. (Again, all that stored up knowledge just coming to the surface.)

We had a fun Saturday as well. We had a wonderful visit from some friends from Cleveland and Atlanta who were here in town for a few days. It was especially good to see them all. Then the boys in the unit and the rec therapist put on a cookout with one of the fellas cooking chicken, steak and hot dogs. Needless to say, Mark had his share and more to eat.

In the evening, two other moms, one of the wives, and I were invited to a fund raiser for Operation Helping Hand which was put on by the Republican Club of Wellington. OHH is a huge benefactor for the Fisher House and the VA and especially recognizes active military personnel here. When we were invited we had no idea we would be the guests of honor. We were introduced, given flowers and presented with letters from the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Dr. Peake. Our hosts were Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Bowman, who live in Wellington. He is the Chief of Staff of Veterans Affairs. They are a lovely couple. We were also honored by Rep. Virginia Bowen-Waite, who is the congresswoman for the district and a fierce advocate for veterans rights and benefits. It was good for us to get out and enjoy an evening socializing, since so much of our time is spent at the hospital. They even had a karaoke "idol" contest and one of our own decided to sing. She was by far the youngest person in the room, and won first prize! We do think she was given extra consideration, however.

Today was warm and we enjoyed a quiet day just doing next to nothing. We are planning an outing for next weekend since we have been given the use of a wheelchair accessible mini-van and plan on spending Mothers Day with my family. It should be interesting to go off on our own for the first time. We'll keep you posted!