Our story

I grew up on 160 acres in Hockley, a teeny tiny rural community about an hour outside of Houston. Our family was whole and we children were very loved Our life in the country was simple and fun. Things weren't perfect of course, but boy it made for a sweet and solid childhood. I guess that's why I love it so much there. Why it feels like that land is as much a part of me as anything. 

Yesterday I got to go back there with the kids. Again, not perfect ( picture us running freely through the fields reliving my childhood and one child trips over another and screams that they did it on purpose, etc:), but oh it was special to me. Our neighbors from across the street (and pasture) bought the house I grew up in and they met us there and let me walk through it. It was really so neat to see them too. They have known me since I was one. Richard said, " I knew you'd be back one day. I really did." I wanted to say I'd be pitching a tent if I had to to live there forevermore. A bit dramatic, I know.  Shanyn was there with us and knew how much it meant for me and she surprised me with a little grapevine wreath made from the grapevines in the front yard. I will treasure it! 

Afterwards we went to our dear friends the Cutaias right up the road. They are good friends with both of our families, watched us grow up,sang at our wedding ( oh how i love their voices!!), and now it is just amazing to get to see them love on the littles. Diane let them lead around her beautiful horses and feed them carrots and Jimmy patiently showed them how to put bait on a fishing rod and they looooved getting to cast it into their pond over and over. She sent us home with a huge pot of delicious soup and a full heart.

Feeling thankful for days full of family, and rich experiences. Even though trips like this often overwhelm me with the logistics and energy it takes to travel with young children, it really is so worth it. Much more to share, but I'm snuggled up to Ollie to take a much needed nap. I hear my mama playing beauty salon while she washes Amelia's hair in the sink...all is well.

Jen