A tale of two snows

Old-fashioned love

This “S” could stand for “special.” As in the truly special kind of person that you’d know is exceptional even if they weren’t your good friend; who would be special for any number of separate reasons, but when they’re all together in the same person — wow. Or that special kind of friend you’ve known for years, where you always pick right back up where you left off, even when you haven’t talked to them for a long time.

But it actually stands for The “Savoy.” As in the country’s oldest continuously operating hotel west of the Mississippi.

A landmark on the National Register of Historic Places, built in 1888. Host to Warren Harding, Harry Truman, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan...

...and Cassie & Eric’s wedding this afternoon. Wow.

It was simple, and timeless, and classic, and memorable for a bunch of different reasons.

But all because it was a celebration that was uniquely “them.”

Such as these four college friends who — after a quick run-through by iPhone near the restrooms — performed their fraternity-sweetheart serenade for Cassie. (Heck, the solos they each sang during the wedding itself made me want to get the ceremony soundtrack!)

Or the dessert bar Cassie & Eric had asked guests to contribute some favorites to...

...along with the recipes, themselves!

I’m so glad we got to share in their special day; to be part of a whole host of people — from so many different places, through so many different connections over the years —

who love and support them as much as we do.

Congratulations to the new Mr. & Mrs.!

#KCsnow

Yesterday was Kansas City's largest one-day snowfall in 101 years. At times it was coming down at a rate of 4 inches per hour, with 2- to 3-inch snowfall rates for four consecutive hours! So when there was finally a break in the action, I headed outside to shovel the driveway ... and take a few pics, as well.

They don't always show up well in a picture, but one of my favorite things after a windy snowstorm are seeing the unique designs left behind.

Two feet of snow on the lefthand side of this pic, and hardly any on the righthand side.

And two real birds on the water, compared to the metal ones on the little bird bath, above.

One of the craziest snow formations was this mini overhang.

But the real point of going outside in the snow? Getting to come in for hot chocolate!

Landon was "all in."

Cabin fever

Leslie saw that AirZone had free admission yesterday afternoon for its Facebook friends, so I took the boys there after church. They definitely could stand to run off a little steam.

Jack and Landon played great together and there was hardly anyone else there. They had so much fun, Leslie took them back again today!

My funny Valentine

At Landon's preschool party.