Christmas Time At The Armed Forces Retirement Home

Beautiful decorations, serene sentiments, and content residents are very much the part during the holiday season, at The Armed Forces Retirement Home, one of America's oldest veteran's retirement homes.  I have known this wonderful campus since 1998.   My introduction to AFRH, developed when I was asked to collaborate an Intergenerational Partnership with Middle School Students of Washington, D.C. and a nearby retirement center...and that is when I discovered this gracious place.  Presently, as I am helping to facilitate a "Reading Buddy" partnership with the residents of The Armed Forces Retirement Home and The International Charter School that resides on the campus of AFRH, I realize that some very worthwhile and ideal initiatives will always have a place for a dedicated volunteer.

Book Signing at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland a U.S. Army Installation

During the days and early evenings of October 20 through October 22, I spent time with our U.S. Armed Forces men and women in uniform, their families, military retirees, and the civilian employees of Fort George G. Meade, U.S. Army Installation.  I was invited to Fort Meade to host a book signing, and to read the books that I have authored to the children and their families living in the Fort Meade community and to those individuals that were visiting.  Book signing at Fort Meade is always an interesting experience for me, because of the many interesting visitors that pass through this U.S. Army Installation.  I am always grateful when these travelers purchase my books, and in turn introduce the books into the communities where they reside.

Stopping By One Of My Favorite Places

"Chinquapin's," located in the heart of historic downtown Hayesville, NC, which got its start as a pharmacy in the 1940's, is mostly known for its original soda fountain that is still in operation.

Hand mixed cherry cokes, chocolate malts, and vanilla sodas are just a few of the delectable treats that one can enjoy while browsing through the many gift items that are beautifully displayed.

Fall Fun Fest At The Armed Forces Retirement Home-Washington, D.C.

Carnival games, a pumpkin patch, bake sales, food trucks, and children story readings all added up to give families and friends of The Armed Forces Retirement Home, Washington, D.C. a day of great activities on Sunday, October 2nd.  The annual Fall Fun Fest at AFRH, Washington, D.C. was enjoyed by many and myself included.

A Pennsylvania Weekend and Book Signing at Carlisle Barracks

On September 22, my husband and myself began our long weekend and headed up the road to Carlisle Barracks, Pennsylvania.  Thursday was a beautiful day with just a hint of Fall in the air. The sun was shining and it was a crystal clear day.  Driving was easy peasy, because it was smooth sailing all of the way.  Our two-and-a-half-hour trip was scenic and uneventful...just what we both had hoped for. 

Presenting "Courage From The Heart" to Residents of The Armed Forces Retirement Home

On Thursday afternoon, September 8, I was fortunate to be in good company with the residents of The Armed Forces Retirement Home (AFRH).  Some months ago, Christine Baldwin, Librarian of AFRH reached out to me and invited me to share my most recent book, Courage From The Heart (Our StoreLink).  I didn't hesitate in accepting this opportunity to spend time with America's Finest, because it is one of my favorite things to do.  The Armed Forces Home is one of America's oldest veterans' retirement homes The Soldier's home was established in 1851 as an "asylum for old and disabled veterans."  Four of the original buildings still stand and are listed as national historic landmarks.