We made it to the mountains of western Carolina for Renee’s wedding in Sylva, after driving through the (now) tropical storm for more than three hours.
The sunset seemed like a miracle since it was our first view of the hurricane sky and the riot of orange swirling clouds felt like a revelation.
The intensity of feeling is the real miracle here: gatherings of Melinda’s Kramer clan always have an aura of magic since everyone is SO happy to see each other (they live all over) and SO enthusiastic about all the events. Some of the same folks from the wedding in Tuscany in July (that was the wedding of Renee’s brother so it’s the same family) so we had fun saying “last time I saw you was in Florence!”
Families always reveal people’s best and worst sides, so there is plenty to observe! Mostly, Melinda and I get to be in action on our stand for family relationships being strong and supportive and this is our chance to provide and demonstrate family leadership. Meredith is here and she speaks for us and our values simply by who she is being. And I am present to making a difference in the world without having to talk about it.