Marine South Expo – April 22-23, 2009

It’s good to be an American! And never have I felt that more than this past month when I attended the Marine South Expo at the Camp LeJeune Marine Base in North Carolina.

For the last five years, I’ve had the honor of working with and getting to know many service men and women and their families in the U.S. and overseas. When I produced my calendar to honor these heroes, I had no idea where the journey would lead. 

Well, it took me straight to Camp LeJeune, and what fun it was! I met and shared stories with so many veteran and active-duty marines and their families, and even encountered some two, three and four star generals! All were gracious and sincere, and it was not only humbling to see the gratitude for the calendar, but it was educational, as I learned so many things about being in the military and why this show of support is so important. It is amazing how much there is to learn, but this is part of what makes this experience so rewarding and interesting!

I’ve included a few shots of me and some of these heroes as I signed calendars and posed for pictures.  One exhibitor even had an exotic animal trainer and educator doing a show, which is why I am posing with a real alligator (yes that is real!)  It was so much fun, although my enthusiasm took a hit when I received a speeding ticket from a state trooper who was not in a very good mood, and what’s worse is my mom had come along for the road trip! lol…