Friday 5's

1. What is one thing you miss the most about childhood?

Probably the simplicity of it all. I really wish I could live worry free as I did back then. Everything was so easy and carefree!!

I loved having the freedom to roam my family farm and do as I pleased. We could (and did) get filthy any- and ALL- the time. I grew up making mud pies and living in swimming suits all summer long. It was simple, EASY even.

I feel sad when I think about Maddox's childhood and the opportunities he will have. We don't have a farm where he can do that (yes, we can visit) but I feel like he will miss out on so much. Honestly, those days really were the best days though I wouldn't trade them with where I am now!
2. Are you still friends with your friends from high school?


Yes and no, I would say that for the most part,  I have moved on..... I definitely have some people that I do keep in touch with but I consider them my "adulthood" friends now.

3. Is there a catch phrase, cliche, or word that just drives you bonkers every time you hear it?

"That's what your mom said........"  or "your mother" ARGH I DESPISE those sayings and Justin says them ALL the time!

To be honest he has a few of those sayings I could really complain about but I won't, It's a holiday weekend! LUCKY YOU! :) I think I need to learn NOT to react............

4. What is one thing that you think symbolizes America...besides "Old Glory"?

I think I really woke up to what this country was about after 9/11. I had never really thought about the hard work and sacrifices that so many people make on a daily basis to maintain our freedom so if I had to pick one thing I guess I would go with Ground Zero.

Why, you ask!?

A symbol of death, heartbreak, and worry probably isn't an answer most would think of but I do. I think about how the world- MY world- stopped on that day. I think about how I had never seen people band together like they did after that tragedy. I think about the complete terror that so many people experienced that day.

To me, that spoke volumes about what this country really means. We have FREEDOM; we can do as we please which, is amazing when you really think about it. I have the opportunity to speak my mind (which I do more often than not- whoops!) and I think it is something we should be very thankful for.

5. What are your 4th of July weekend plans?

The 4th of July has always been one of my favorite celebrations. I get teary eyed thinking about it! I loved going to our hometown's celebrations and seeing my friends. In grade school through high school it was an excuse to see your friends you hadn't seen all summer. Now, it is an excuse to see people you haven't seen in years! I love that.

We are headed back "home" for our hometown's celebration. Justin hasn't been back in a few years and I think he is actually really excited to get back there. We will also be heading to "The Lakes" a.k.a. Lake Okoboji for some firework action and boating.