Athens Invite????

Well now. Back in March the singles/young couples decided we wanted to plan an Athens Invite. We were really excited about it because we always talk about having one but never really get anywhere. So we set a date and started inviting and planning. Turns out, almost everyone that said they would come at first, didn't. At first it was a little dissapointing, but it turned out okay. See, Kentucky Lake is the Hodel family's favorite vacation spot. And while most of us haven't really been able to go the last couple years, there is one aunt and uncle that still make it. My cousin Jared was here from Denver for the "invite" and it just so happens that his family was in KY for the week. Since we were only a few hours away and he wouldn't be able to go at all otherwise, we decided to skip out on the "invite". And I was excited.

I went up to Tennessee to where Jared was staying- we were planning to stay there and eat supper with the few others that came and then head up to KY. I said "Do your parents know we're coming?" He said that yes, they did. Then someone else said "Do they know that Jake and Tucker are going?" I laughed, and then there was an awkward pause. OH! Well suprise, suprise, suprise. Yes, Jake and Tucker really were going. This was news to me. But it all turned out good and we had a great time. I dropped them off at the Nashville airport this afternoon on my way back to Athens.

We did the normal things we usually do in Kentucky. Lay on rafts, lay on the beach, read books, play a few games, eat a LOT of food, and of course, go out on the boat. Now, me and skiing aren't really the best of friends. It took me about 5 summers before I finally got up on skis and once I did, that was it. I accomplished my goal, I got up on skis, congratulations to me, woo hoo, I don't need to keep skiing. That was about 4 or 5 years ago. Ever since then I have been bugged and bugged by my dad and my uncle Ed to get back out and try. And every year I just sit in the boat and watch others go do their thing. This year, something got into me. I was out with my aunt and uncle and Jared and decided I would just try again. And you know what? I did it!!!!

And it was fun! For my family, who may not believe me, that is really me on those skis. I, Sarah, GOT UP!!!!

For about 20 seconds.

But I did have fun doing it and if I ever make it back to KY, I believe I will try again. It's not a problem of getting up. It's more that once I'm up, I'm too scared to stand so I just let go and make myself fall.

Kristi, we really really really missed you. I kind of felt guilty for your parents sake because I wasn't you and they wanted you there so bad. But we did have fun and....... maybe next year?