Mrs. Powell

Well... she's done it.

Kayla's engagement to Jody has been shorter than expected. On Friday, May 14th, she and Jody waltzed into a courthouse, pledged their undying love for one another and were pronounced husband and wife.

The wedding planning has been... exciting. Kayla is the "anti-bride". She wants simplicity and fun, rather than fuss and commotion. All the attention was sort of getting to her, and really, she just wanted to marry the man she fell in love with. So, that's exactly what she did.

Jody is in Norfolk, Virginia right now, stationed there for the Navy (please hold your seamen jokes for when I can hear them personally). As is common for the military, it takes several months for paperwork to pass through red tape. This means that the "housing allowance" Jody would receive after marrying would take several months to acquire, forcing the newlyweds to live in the barracks for their first few months of wedded life. Jody and Kayla decided to get the ball rolling by marrying sooner. This way, while Kayla is in VA this week, they can begin to look for an apartment in which to begin their new life. Aren't they responsible!

Before Kayla left, mom's work gals, Jeannie and Lisa, held a small, intimate going away party for her - knowing she would come back hitched. The party was a lot of fun. Kayla was totally surprised (as evidenced by her outfit of sweat pants and slippers), and the hosts put a lot of thought into details.

The Gal Gang

Anyone want to know what Jody looked like as a three year old? There you go. This is his nephew. What a cutie, eh?

Giving me the "You little sneakster!" look.

Having our cake.

And eating it too!

Jeannie: What should we put on the cake?

Lisa: I don't know. Let's think about it and get a hot and ready.

Jeannie: Jackpot!

When people say, "So, Kayla is a married woman!" I still can't help but reply, "No, she's a married little girl!" But really, I'm quite proud of my little sister. She's found someone who loves her to the moon and back. She knows what she wants, she knows how to get it, and she's willing to sacrifice to be with him. We love Jody very much, and I'm thrilled to have a new brother to beat at board games for years to come. Congratulations, Kayla!

P.S. There will still be a reception and perhaps a "commitment ceremony" in August. Stay tuned!