Bam

My grandmother was one of the most influential people in my life. She was amazing, crazy (in a good way), cooky, and just plain "fun". I can't remember a time we were together that we weren't laughing. The times we had together in my 21 years were full of great advice, funny one-liners and antics that only she could get away with.

She passed away back in 2000, but even her death was a funny story. She had been married to my grandfather for many years, had 3 kids together and then got a divorce. She got married again (as did he). When both their spouses had died many years later, my Bam and my grandpa fell back in love and got remarried. An epic love tale if you'd ever heard one. My grandfather proceeded her death by about 4 years. When she passed away in 2000, she was buried in a plot next to her second husband, with my grandfather's ashes next to her in the coffin. Only my Bam. (In the picture, the large gravestone is my Bam and her 2nd husband who purchased the plot together. The back marker is for my grandfather who is buried with my Bam.)

This past weekend, while in Ohio, Matt and I stopped by her grave to pay respects to my Bam and my Papaw. And even with tears in my eyes, I got a chuckle out of her situation...surrounded by men, even in the grave.

Fall Fun

A few weeks ago, Matt and I decided to take the boys on our annual trip to an apple orchard to pick pumpkins (which the squirrels have since eaten) and apples (which the boys don't like). Despite our lack of successful products brought home, we had a great time! I love fall!

Where have you been!?!?!?!

Gosh.  Life is busy!  School, work, volleyball, kids, birthdays, anniversaries, friends, family, fall, holidays...the list just goes on.

Things are going well here.  Matt and I just celebrated our 9th year of marriage.  It's still a single digit, but it's pretty impressive to me.  I'm really happy.  He's really happy.  Our kids rock and our love grows.  What more can a girl ask for?!

We got a new family van (she doesn't have a name yet).  On Friday we sent the kids to my inlaws (Thanks, Dot & Gene!!!) and we headed to OH to pick up the van.  We spent a night with my aunt & uncle and then turned around to come home.  We took a long, leisurely trip home and had a great time just the two of us, enjoying each other's company and...of course, the love we share. (Gosh, I'm such a SAP!)

I did get the chance to take some good photos that can be seen on my photo blog.  Check 'em out if you have time.

Otherwise, just hang on for an update again...when I find the time!

Venti Sized Dreams

A few weeks ago, we started a new course at church: You matter more than you think.

At last week's session, I we were challenged to dream "venti sized dreams".  Not just little dreams, but big dreams that change things.  Not to limit ourselves.    I take that challenge.  And I hope to run with it. 

I know that God will put the seed in my head.  The shot of espresso sized dream that will turn into a venti sized dream - if you will.  I'm looking forward to the amazing plans God has for me.