Bucket list checking it off

 I had always wanted to see Hemmed In Hollow Falls, but the hike down to the falls is one of the most dangerous in Arkansas.  I'm extremely uncoordinated so the hike would be iffy at best however there is a shorter hike from the Buffalo River. The trail starts just a mile past Jim's Bluff. It's reported to be a mile hike and relatively easy, but that was before the trail was damaged by recent flooding and storms. It's a hike with heights and narrow, muddy parts to it. If it wasn't for my son Paul, I wouldn't have made it. I also did a 360 in a kayak for the first time. Something I have never wanted to do, but I didn't panic. I went into the roll, tucked my legs, and managed to look like I knew what I was doing.

Passing the torch

 Bell Family Reunion 2025 aka Chickenfest is done. There were 49 people there. For the first time ever, my dad stayed in his seat and the younger people took over. It was a good thing to see. My nephew Benjamin Patrick Bell the Fifth did the sermon and my other nephew John Connor Epps led the singing.

The dress

 Tonight I saw my baby girl in her wedding dress. I think I'm still in shock. Where did my baby go? The beautiful young woman beaming in front of me bore little resemblance to the toddler that wanted to grow up to be a tiger. She's so happy and sure of herself and that does my heart good. Marriage can be scary or heart breaking but it can also be the most beautiful trip ever taken. I didn't cry in front of her. I think I've done enough of that but now that it's quiet and it's just me...let's just say my pillow is a little damp and leave it at that. She'll be a beautiful bride and I hope Nick knows how lucky he is.