Our trip to South Carolina and other stuff

Ok, so I haven't posted in a while. I've been working on shutterfly books, as you can see by my last post. Anyway, we had a great month of February. I'm only going to do some of the pictures of South Carolina in this post because there were too many. I'll follow up with the others soon.

First, here is Jane and Alice's new favorite hiding spot. As you can see it's pretty hard to find them. But they love it when we do!

Next, Jane has 2 friends at church whom she adores, Sami and Allie, and their mom, Krissy, made them bags for Christmas. They take the bags everywhere and carry all their things, from scriptures to ballet shoes. Jane really wanted one. I got the pattern from Krissy, which I have to say was kind of complicated, but here is the finished product. I was excited and Jane was very excited about the bag. She even picked out the lining fabric. I pieced old strips of fabric I had for the side panels. (Beth, you'll probably recognize most of it.) It was fun.

I finished the bag just in time for Jane to take it on our trip to South Carolina to see her Aunt Karlene graduate from boot camp.

Here's Alice saying, "It's really cold out here, but I'll do my best to smile!" It was so cold. I can complain because I live in Florida, but everyone else was bundled up too. The wind was just relentless and we were at the top of the bleachers.

Anyway, the first day was family day, so all the family and friends waited on some bleachers and we had a little info briefing. Then all the companies of soldiers came running out of the woods in their rows amidst the smoke and lined up. We cheered for them and then we got to spend the day with our soldier (on base).

D company

Our soldier, Karlene (she's the youngest of Kevin's siblings)

My mom and Karlene. Mom came along for support and the excitement of a road trip. We are grateful she joined us in our adventure and we had a wonderful time. Thanks, Mom!

Alice sporting a cute little ponytail. We toured the base by bus and played at the playground most of the day. It was chilly, but not too bad in the sun.

Friday was graduation day. The ceremony was nice and short and then the soldiers paraded by. It was pretty exciting.

Jane sporting her hat. Luckily it was warmer that day! No jacket needed, but gloves and a hat were a must.

Jane checking out the soldiers with the binoculars. I love this picture.

Karlene's company

The support crew

Karlene is in the 5th row from the back, 2nd in from the left

The crew, Me, Kami, Jane, Karlene, Bob, Valene, Kevin, and sleeping Alice

And here is a video of the presents Bob (Papa Terry) gave the girls. They love them. You did a beautiful job on all the gifts. Thank you again!