wow, mega growth.

I straightened my hair for the first time in probably 3 or 4 months and the difference in length is INSANE.

You have no idea.

I've been trying to get my hair long for forever and I'm finally here. FINALLY.

Ben and his goofy faces. Love him :)

September 11, 2001.

Like so many others I vividly remember every intricate detail about that day. Awaking to my mom in tears as she somberly broke the news and watching in utter terror the attacks that came upon our nation. It felt as though the world as I knew it was coming to an end and in those moments, my eyes were glued to what I was beholding. It seemed so surreal.

Today marks 9 years since the tragic day we were attacked on our soil and so many lost their lives due to the fatal brutality of terrorism. So many spouses, children, loved ones, friends and co-workers were affected by these heinous acts and may we never ever forget the lives that were lost that day. May we never forget those who sacrificed their lives heroically to save another and may we never forget those who grasped the gravity of the moment and understood the threat as they courageously took matters into their own hands on Flight 93 when they realized their fate. May we never ever forget.

Today I mourn with those who mourn. As an American Citizen affected by these events I can't help but be somber and respectful as I look back and commemorate those who made a difference in their actions and lovingly and notably reached out to those in need. The self sacrifice expressed through their actions is a picture of true love and of true brotherhood- "Greater love has no one than this, that one lay down his life for his friends." John 15:13. I am humbled by those sacrifices. Our country was forever changed that day and there can be no denying that despite these grave occurrences there was a unity in our Nation that truly did something unexplainable.

Sometimes it's hard for me to believe all of the things I have witnessed throughout my life that will undoubtedly go down in history. The things that shook our nation, brought us closer as well as all of the things that have divided our nation. I imagine that we will behold so much more- it's undeniable.

I do not think that we realize how unbelievably blessed we truly are. We gripe and complain about so many little things that really have no significance compared to the trials and losses of others. Today, I remember the heroes and I remember all of the innocent blood shed and I can't help but sit here, tears streaming down my face in disbelief and in utter gratefulness that I am an American and that God has blessed me in ways unimaginable.

Many things have changed since that September morning in 2001 but one thing remains constant, the bond that every American now shares; unspoken but strong, we came together as a nation that day regardless of religion, race or creed and today we stand united on this 9th anniversary to remember the heroes of 9/11.

"Blessed are those who mourn, for they will be comforted"- Matthew 5:4

So, say a prayer for those mourning today. Say a prayer for our troops. Say a prayer for our Nation and it's leaders. Say a prayer for the future of our Nation.

Never forget and be grateful because we truly are blessed beyond belief.

Much Love,

-Amber

Recap.

I don't know why I always feel as though I need an explanation for my absence so this time, I have no explanation. I could contribute it to being busy, having nothing to write about, not feeling like writing, etc. etc. Instead, I'll just say hey! :)

Last weekend was so good. SO good. I was able to spend some quality time with my sweet sister. The time went by way too quickly though. I am so thankful that it worked out for her to come and to have had the special quality time that we did.

It's crazy to think that we're both adults now, working real jobs and having so much more responsibility than we did just a few short years ago.

I never really imagined myself living away from my family and yes, I miss them more than you can even imagine but I know that this season of growth and maturity has been so crucial in my life.

It was definitely a treat to have Ashton visit me here and we had such a wonderful time!

And now for pictures...

Ash and I.


My love and I.

Ashton and Christie both came into town. Christie lives in California. We all attended a going away party for dear friends of ours.

My love and I again.

Antiquing.

Dinner with our grandparents :)

Don't leave :(

It was fabulous. Wish it didn't have to end.

yay.

My sister is in town!

I'm really happy about it.

Hope you all have a wonderful labor day weekend!