Daddy’s hands…have always been on a camera.
Blustery. It’s about the only word to describe the weather this morning. And it’s one of my dad’s favorite kinds of weather. Gray skies, crisp temperatures…perfect for driving the dirt roads and capturing raw Kansas beauty. Despite the teeth-rattling winds, we headed out this morning, Sony CyberShots in hand, and completely enjoyed a dad-daughter photo outing. My dad is no stranger to the lens, having served as Navy photographer back in the 60s, and then as a (mainly) commercial photographer for years after that. I spent many an afternoon with him in our at-home darkroom, waiting patiently for the magical images to appear on the page. If I close my eyes and focus, I can still smell the chemicals and hear the paper being swished in the pan.
But …
I’ll always picture my brother in this jacket.
“I think we’re getting together on Sunday to visit the grave.” I had to pause for a moment after hearing my mom’s voice through the phone. Of course. The grave. The anniversary. How could I have forgotten? Well, I didn’t forget. I just wasn’t thinking about it at the time. All the time. Like I used to. Has it really taken me 13 years to reach this point? More than a decade for most of my thoughts during the months of September through October to not send me into a downward spiral? Is that a good thing, or a bad thing?
Perhaps, it’s been rattling around in my mind, creeping around corners and ducking under tables when the lights are turned on. Whispering to me, instead of shouting. …
Cedar Crest Lodge is located in Pleasanton, KS, and is the ideal retreat.
Friends, I have found my dream home. And my dream kitchen. And my dream yard. Oh yeah, the best part? I don’t have to clean. Or cook. Or maintain the flower beds. But I do have to hand over a little moolah for each night I stay there. But is it worth it? Absolutely.
Cedar Crest Lodge is located in Pleasanton, KS, off Highway 69 between Fort Scott and Kansas City. It was the venue for my brother’s recent wedding, and it left me longing to return. The views were stunning, especially at this time of year with the leaves bursting in orange and red. The grounds were impeccable, with many interesting plant arrangements and areas to enjoy. And …
Yep. That’s about what I look like when I eat. (image from diseaseproof.com)
“Honey, don’t make fun of me, but I’d like to start Weight Watchers tomorrow.”
An awkward silence hung in the air between my husband and I as we drove down the road. After all, how should a man respond to this? They want to be supportive, but never insinuate that you need to lose weight. It’s a tough position to be in. Do they say, “That’s great dear,” and risk being yelled at for admitting she’s plump? Or do they say, “Sweetie, you don’t need to do that,” and risk being yelled at for not being supportive? Danged if you do, danged if you don’t. Sorry guys, it’s tough being you sometimes.
So, my husband did a smart thing by asking a neutral question. …
A perfect couple. A perfect day. Yes, it is possible.
What happens when a nerdy white boy from Kansas marries a sweet lively señorita from California? When a software engineer says “I do” to an interior decorator? When two cultures mingle together at a beautiful, remote B&B? Only the best. wedding. ever.
My wicked smart big brother Luke was betrothed to the love of his life Luisa at Cedar Crest Lodge in Pleasanton, KS last weekend. And while I’ll always hold my own wedding in a sacred place in my heart, I have to say this was one of the most beautiful events I’ve ever been to. The love was palpable. The weather impeccable. And the decor more than perfect (it deserves its own blog post). The glowing bride walked down the aisle to the sounds …
My new sister-in-law is an interior decorator by trade, and at my brother’s recent wedding, it showed. So much thought was put into each and every arrangement. I just had to share some images from the day to showcase her talent. Perhaps you’ll be inspired. (And if you need to hire a decorator in the KC area, let me know and I’ll connect you!) 😉
The beginnings of the centerpieces. So beautiful against the blue Fall sky.
The ribbon and flowers placed around the flower girls’ waists made pretty hair bows later.
The golden place card pinwheels sparkled in the sunshine.
I was happy to find my place at the table.
A memory table for lost loved ones was a beautiful touch.
The finished centerpieces were especially pretty when lit up at night.
String lights and white …
