Life in the Middle Age Lane

It's not what you think.  I have been on this new chapter of my life (the early empty nester) for almost two years.  At the same time also adjusting to remote parenting *Thank you Skype!, an "adult" son living nearby and having a more open schedule since my days of PTO, car pool, school sports are no longer part of my life. Being only 46, I felt I still had more mothering in me to do.  With no kids and more time on my hands then I ever imagined.  I prayed... I prayed for purpose and direction.  What a great thing to ask for.  Everyone needs purpose and direction to feel part of society.  I prayed that I can still make a difference. My prayer was answered in the form of a 71 year old white haired, blue eyed, father in law.  In so many ways, it's like having a 3 year old all over again.  In other ways, you get the wisdom of a man who has lived a good life, traveled, knows my best friends childhood memories, and shows you how to muster u...

On Saturday, John's mom got hitched!  It was a beautiful family affair out in Sealy, Texas on her oldest son's property.  Trip, John's brother, cleaned out this warehouse, family and friends decorated the "barn" with wedding flowers, plants, an arch and filled it with love from all. Everyone brought side dishes and the happy couple provided chicken and sausage that the Bride's sons and brothers spent all day Saturday grilling to perfection.  It was a true family affair.   You could feel the love bestowed upon the newlyweds as we all worked to make this a memorable event for them.  The ceremony was touching and loving. Shelby took over a thousand pictures and played photographer.   I was lucky enough to host John's aunt and uncle from Washington State over the weekend and learned more about his family on his mom's side.  I met cousins I never knew he had and heard wonderful stories. His uncle Tom also spent Sunday night with us and ...