Loooong Overdue

Contrary to popular belief after this long blogging hiatus, we are alive and well.  My apologies for the delay; however I must cite #1 of the disclaimer in my initial post. Sometimes life just gets in the way.  But I'm here now and that's what matters, right?  We've been busy with a lot of things this last month, so I'll just hit the highpoints...

Most importantly... PATTY IS GETTING MARRIED!! Yup, that's right. My big brother asked his leading lady to tie the knot. We couldn't be more excited! Patrick and Grace are a fun and fabulous couple! I'm so thrilled to be gaining a sister! Here is look at the happy couple just hours after the proposal...

I also got to make a quick trip home to spend my birthday with some of my dear friends!  We got to visit, shop, relax by the pool, and enjoy a fun dinner outside on a beautiful night! I miss you gals!

Razorback football is underway, and we made the trek up to Fayetteville to catch the season opener. So much fun to spend the long, holiday weekend with family and friends and cheer the Hogs on to a victory.  Thanks to the Cashion family for welcoming us at their tailgate!

Another highlight of this trip was getting to meet my dear friend Amber's baby boy Cooper! I could kick myself for not taking any pictures during this visit, but it was so wonderful to catch up with her and hold that sweet boy! Love that tiny guy already!

Studying is in full force at the Bell house, and this time it's not Austin. A while back I decided to work on some additional certification. Well, it's a three-year application process, and I submitted my application in July and found out last month that I get to sit for the exam on Oct. 3...which is like 9 days away. Yikes.  My sweet friend Rachel (who talked me into this whole bettering myself with education thing) met me halfway for a study session a couple weeks ago. This was the overall feeling....

We survived the weekend filled with books and laughter, and the takeway feeling was one of immense productivity. Thanks, Rach!

I would say this test has been the #1 reason to blame for my falling off the face of the blog world. So hopefully after the test I will come back full force with some house updates! I'm excited to share what's been going on around this place... but for now, it's back to the books. My last test EVER. I can hear the hallelujah chorus.  Prayers on October 3rd are welcome and much appreciated!