In Iowa, there are two seasons....Winter, and

SOFTBALL.

If you measure this blog by the number of softball seasons, this is year three. Wow. How does that happen?

Actually, softball has been underway since the beginning of March with practices and Rec League games in April. This weekend was Hannah's first ASA League tournament of the season. The Fillie Spring Fling in Grimes. Hannah moved up to the 12U level (which means 12 and under) and the whole game has stepped up a notch. Don't worry. This gal is up for the challenge! She's definitely one of the strongest hitters on her team, and has shown a lot of growth as catcher.

Today we were wrapped up in blankets to protect us from the cold wind. Next week, who knows? We may be sweating in shorts. This is Iowa! If anyone wants to join us for a game, give us a call and I'll send you the schedule.

1+1= This!

I've spent the past week recovering, and still have a way to go. There is no single word to describe the feelings associated with seeing your offspring get married, so here is the list of those emotions that have dominated my psyche for the past month:

Exhilirating

Overwhelming

Frustrating

Panic

Joy

Tearful

Protective

Jealous

Hopeful

Comtemplative

Frenzied

Humble

Proud

and most of all...

Exhausting.

It's been a roller coaster ride. Throughout the month prior to the wedding, it seemed that there was never enough time or energy or manpower or money. I found myself wanting to do everything just a little better; a bit more lavish; a touch more personal or intimate. I was not quite satisfied. But at the end of the day everything was nearly perfect. Oh, the weather could have cooperated a bit more, and Brent could have squeezed out a smile or two, and the circuit breaker could have handled the load of three roasters, and I could have lost 10 more pounds. But the deed is done and the newlyweds got off on their honeymoon. Now all that's left is the Happily Ever After...and we all know how that goes.

Here are a few highlights: