Happy Veteran's Day!

Caelin had the option to do an extra credit opportunity to honor a Veteran in her life and she chose Papa.  We called Nana to get more information and she sent us many snapshots of Papa from when he was in basic Army training in 1969 at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.  Papa served for 6 years in the reserves and achieved the rank of Sergeant. His honors included: expert sharp shooter, best platoon machine operator, and hand grenade specialist.  The picture quality is not the best as Nana was quickly taking pictures from her cell phone and texting us, but I smiled as most of these pictures I have never seen.  I cannot wait to be home in a few weeks at Thanksgiving to see the scrapbook Nana made for Papa when he got home from service.  The pictures made me laugh as you can clearly see Dad's fun loving and sometimes naughty attitude.  Miss you Daddy and thanks for serving!  Happy Veteran's Day to all who have served.

Concert in the Country

Tonight was the 9th annual Boots for Troops, Concert in the Country.  We always enjoy time as a family out in the country, hanging with friends, listening to Country music, and supporting a good cause.  Boots for Troops supports a number of programs for active military, spouses, and Veterans including customized care packages, travel assistance, military spouse scholarships, and funding service dogs for Veterans.  Such an honor to support a good cause! 

A season to remember!

Cade wrapped up his first season of high school football, and it’s safe to say it was one for the books! The team went undefeated and clinched the district championship, which has us all on cloud nine. Since Cade’s 7th grade year, he and his teammates have only lost one game—and by just a single point! Cade couldn’t be prouder of their winning streak and bringing home another district title.  Looking back over the season, Cade’s growth has been incredible. He’s stronger, faster, and sharper in his reactions. He also really leaned into playing on the defensive side this year, shining as a defensive end, though he did spend some time at left tackle as well.  As Cade gears up for next season, he’s already got his goals lined up. He’s planning to zero in on better tackling, building strength, and getting even quicker on his feet. We’re beyond proud of his dedication to getting better, especially when the going got tough.  Counting down the days until we get to watch him out there next season! GoCoogs!

A busy Saturday!

Days like this are my favorite!  We slept in a bit till 10, had a family lunch at Heirloom Cafe (we had order #3), smashed up our pumpkins for the deer, started our thankful pumpkin for November, and then had busy afternoons.  Cade and Charles went to the BU vs TCU game for some guy time while Caelin and I stayed behind for some girl time, shopping, Starbucks, and dinner in bed.  Cade and Charles enjoyed Vitek's on the way to the stadium and time in the lounge with friends.  The game kept going back and forth and was a nail bitter till the end...even Caelin and I were screaming at the TV until the clock ran out.  Thankfully, we finished on top of TCU with a score of 37-34!  What beautiful memories days like today bring.