6 Months Down , We're At The Halfway mark

We got a new FRAG not long ago and we are really missing our old one. We used to get weekly updates from Brendan's commander. Now , all we get are local (Killeen) info. Very disappointing but what can you do?
Brendan is using Skype now and the connection is fantastic. No disconnects , no huge delays , clear as a bell. Of course we rely on the internet being up which isn't always a given. They've had quite a bit of trouble with that in resent weeks.
Rachel's school did another drive and mailed out 15 boxes of goodies for Brendan and the boys. I sent one out as well. He says it was the best one I've sent so far. Must be because it was mostly junk food.
Rumors are running rampid that they may be coming home a bit early. I try not to think about that because the Army is good at disappointing. Would be a fantastic Christmas present though.
Brendan's brother Bryan is back from Afghanistan and all in one piece which is a blessing. He's in Minnesota getting things together for the family move to Texas. They also are pregnant already!!! Such fantastic news!!
As for us back in Ohio the summer is always a busy time. Tom and I went to a Kid Rock/Leonard Skynard concert for our anniversary. Met a Navy and an Army guy who just returned from Afghanistan. The Army guy was a medic and stayed at our hotel so we got to hang out for quite a bit. Real nice guy.
County Fairs are going strong and I plan on taking the kids over to the Ohio State Fair on Wednesday. Journey and Eddie Money are singing that night which is SWEET! I've heard Eddie before but never Journey.
Schools are starting early this year so the kids summer is coming to an end quickly. Didn't get much camping in. Camper needs new tires and we've just had other expenses to worry about. Hope to get a few fall trips in though.
Elijah is a senior and is focusing on his college of choice. He goes for testing on September 19th and if all goes well he'll be in there. After that is looking for all the help we can get to cover the $26,000 cost.
Canning season has begun. Been busy with pickles this week. Tired of the smell of vinegar.
That's about it. Short but sweet for now.