A Little Time in the Mountains

Before I describe our Memorial Day weekend, I want to say a quick word of thanks to all of the military men and women who risked their lives for our country. I feel at a loss for words to adequately thank the brave men and women who sacrificed so much to protect us and ensure our freedom. I know I often take it for granted. So, here is a shout out to grandpa Walt, who served in the army in the medical core as a physicians assistant in World War II, my beloved Pawpaw who served as a Seabee (constructing bridges) in WW II, and my sweet sweet granddad who was a colonel in the Army and spent the first year of my dad's life in the Phillipine Islands also serving in WW II. Just a few unsung heroes in my family.

Ok...about our fun weekend: One of our favorite couples lives in Colorado (which is also our favorite state), so it works out pretty conveniently for us. We spent Memorial Day weekend at their house with them and their two cute kids. Here are some pics and highlights from our time there:

-Austin (their 3 year old) felt that in order to know me, he needed to find out a few important details: "Soooo, are you from Dallas or Texas?" "Soooo, do you play football or baseball?" "Soooo, what kind of lawn mower do you have?" It was an entertaining conversation...and really so mature for him to ask questions at all.

-Finley loved playing with their kids, especially Wyatt, who is only 2 months older than her. She would often go right up to his face, point at him and say, "baby." I think she was really proud of herself for knowing that.

-We got to spend Friday night with Ryan's sister and her family. They made GCB burgers in memory of a favorite college restaurant (Ryan's sister and husband went to the same school with Ryan, Gayle and Ted...whenever we go, it's one big DePauw reunion). I got to listen to more stories of Ted in college, pulling pranks, fishing before class, learning to ski...so many things to learn about Ted.

-Everything is better with music. Ryan pulled out his guitar one morning and played some songs while we all sang along. Finley was mesmerized. She stood at his feet and stared up at him in shock. I think it was her first time to see someone play an instrument, and she was definitely impressed...maybe one day, she'll marry a musician. Austin pulled out his toy guitar and stood up on the table to play with his dad. Wyatt just strummed the guitar that was pictured on his shirt. I think I have a short video...I'll try to attach it below.

-On Saturday, we drove to Boulder and went for a day hike. It was really fun to put Finley in a backpack and experience the scenery with her. Of course, it was beautiful...but, I'm not sure she saw anything past the goldfish we passed to her.

-We went to Saturday night church and heard a really great sermon about worry...I was definitely challenged not to "worry my life away" (and yes, that's a line from "The Remedy" by Jason Mraz). The worship leader sang this song and it sounded just like the artist. I was challenged by the message...that worry has the power to choke out the Word and make it unfruitful in our lives. Yuck, I don't want that.

-A trip to Colorado is just not complete without a bike ride. I actually really loved watching Ted and Ryan pack up for a long bike ride on Sunday. Ted got to satisfy all of his manly needs for adventure and exertion with his closest buddy, and Finley and I made some friends at the park.

-The best part about spending the night with a friend is what happens when the kids go down. The four of us got a chance to talk about relationships and conflict. We decided that it was a healthy dose of group therapy.

-I got sick on Memorial Day. I'm still not sure if I was struggling with morning sickness or some kind of bug, but I was truly bed ridden. I can only think of one other time in my life that I have felt that bad. Usually, when I am sick, I can still function...but, not this time. I couldn't even make myself eat soup or crackers...I just wanted to sleep...all day. I have to give Ted huge props for taking care of Finney and letting me sack out. I was a little thankful that it happened on a day when I had backup.

Well, I just want to say a huge thanks to Ryan and Gayle for making us feel so welcome. It was a recipe for the perfect vacation: a little exercise, great fellowship, beautiful scenery, quality family time, good food...and a little throw up. I'll take the good and the bad.