In December 1995, Corbin and I walked hand in hand through a snowy field in Eagle Nest, New Mexico. We paused at a little bench built between two tall pines. And on that bench sat a thermos of hot chocolate, a Bible, and a needlepoint stocking holding a sparkling diamond ring.
Thirty years later, almost to the day, Branson led Grace, hand in hand to that same bench. And on that bench sat a thermos of hot chocolate, a Bible, and the needlepoint stocking with a sparkling diamond ring.
The first time around, there were no cameras, no videos; the proposal was simply imprinted onto a couple of hearts and minds. The rolling fields were not yet home to Eagle Mountain Lodge. The lovely cabins that would offer a resting spot to pastors and weary ministry leaders were not yet constructed. Jamie and Charles had barely moved to the mountains and had not yet become Mama and Papa.
Early this year, as Corbin and I walked that same path with Grace’s parents in the moments before Branson’s proposal, the memories felt tangible. It seemed that only days, certainly not years, had passed since walking from the front porch down the rocky path to the bench. The four of us staged the hot chocolate and Bible, hung the stocking, and shared a brief prayer. This time around, little Essie peeked around the back patio with her Sony, clicking memories to be shared, posted, and celebrated.
Thirty years ago, Corbin and I opened Charles and Jamie’s cabin door to the surprise greeting of my parents and brothers – I could not wrap my mind around the delighted shock. We celebrated over several days of lively meals, late-night stories, and snow skiing. The beginnings of two families melding together.
In January, Bran and Grace opened the door, maybe not quite as surprised, but with a similar strain of giddy anticipation and celebration. Basden’s baking. Cameron’s cooking. Shelby’s organizing and decorating. Pate and Nettie’s gathered pine cones. Essie’s artistic backdrop and photography. Most important – both the entire Dodd and Wilson families GETTING TO ANGEL FIRE over New Year’s – on the heels of Hudson and Shelby’s Christmastime wedding!
Grace – your bright eyes and bright smile light up a room. Your warm hugs and laughter draw others in. Your keen wit keeps Bran on his toes.
And – we’re keeping your family close. Everything’s better with the Dodd Squad.
We are overjoyed for all that’s ahead for you and Branson. You have captured ALL of our hearts!
A tremendous thank you, Essie, for most of these pics ~ easy to tell which are yours!