Army ROTC

Our son decided to try Army ROTC (Reserve Officer Training Corps) during his sophomore year at UofSC.  He ended up loving it.  So this week, he committed to serving with the military upon graduation.  

His first choice for a career path is Financial Management and his second choice is Aviation.  The actual career assignment is determined by a ranking system and of course, need.  His performance in acedemics and physical fitness will contribute to an overall cadet score that ranks him among all other cadets across the nation.  The higher your rank, the better chance of getting your first choice.  But with the Army, you still have the possibility of a combat tour or two, so training is essential.  

Some of the requirements before he could commit included a medical evaluation, a basic training camp, and passing a physical fitness test.  Here he is packing the night before his basic training camp.

During the camp, they didn't sleep much.  All cadets had to rotate on night watch.  His time was 1am-1:45am.  Below he's pictured with his "watch" buddy.

With his official signing, I figured it was time to get a shirt and show my support.  His actual deployment(s) in the future will be rough on me, but I'm looking forward to seeing where this leadership opportunity takes him.  

After earning his bachelors degree in finance, he will be sworn in as a 2nd Lieutenant in the US Army.  Thank you for serving, Luke!  You make me incredibly proud.💝

Hagood Mill

The little one and I decided to spend our Saturday at our favorite place in Pickens County, Hagood Mill.

This gristmill was built in the 1800s and is still grinding corn today.  Back then, it was the focal point of a little farming village that established vital trade goods for an early Pickens community.

We saw an old moonshine still nestled against the hillside.  There was a blacksmith class going on, too.  They were making cast iron hooks.

We enjoyed watching the chickens roaming around...

Then roaming around ourselves in several log cabins.  This one housed the weaving loom.

Although we came here 4 years ago, we didn't remember there being a hiking trail.  So, off we go!

Nice bridge, and a cool addition to the place.

They also have a cotton gin, a country store, and some neat petroglyphs that were found under a road just 20 years ago.  Although it was quiet today, it's still a hopping place every 3rd Saturday of the month.  In October, they are hosting the state's fiddling championship competition!  We may have to come back for that.

Eric's 50th

 After talking (and planning) for months, we finally got to celebrate Eric's 50th birthday.  He always expects a big show of decorations to commemorate his special occasion.  When we didn't have decorations up one week prior, he decided to get some himself.

After cake and presents, he wanted to spend the day at the lake with our friends, the Niperts.

Their three kiddos enjoyed riding the jetski.

So did their dad, Mr. Bart.

We brought the rope and tube as well, which was a big hit!

Here's my super handsome, strong muscles, always a kid, husband.  Yep, this picture is quite fitting.

When we got home, the neighbors across the street were also celebrating their 50th.  They appropriately decorated, unlike me.  But I did get his picture with the sign!

Happy birthday, Eric!