A Family Affair

Some of you may not know this, but I have a whole heap of family in Terre Haute, Indiana. I rarely get to see them, which is pretty upsetting, but there are always countless laughs and memories that are created whenever we get together.

My cousin Andy was getting married this weekend so my parents and I packed up, and headed out on the 12 hour drive to attend. To be honest, I slept most of the way; but you can bet when I was awake, I pointed out every Chick Fil-A and Cracker Barrel on the way there. (I was on vacation, don’t judge.)

When we arrived in Terre Haute, my mom’s hometown, we visited with the future newlyweds and met with our new family. We caught up over spaghetti and beer and excitedly discussed the upcoming wedding.

Later, we decided to continue the night with some karaoke. We went to a convenience store turned late night karaoke bar (I know, how freaking awesome) and showed off that Swiger talent. Where can you sing karaoke, drink a cold one, and grocery shop at the same time? Terre Haute, Indiana, that’s where.

I don’t know about you, but that’s exactly where I want to be.

The next day was the main event, Andy and Kala’s wedding. My aunts and mom and I decided to do a little morning shopping to pass the time. However, the day flew by and soon it was time to head to Sycamore Farm.

Anyone who has seen my Pinterest knows I love a good barn wedding and this was exactly that. Rustic, from the bare walls and burlap details, with simple touches of baby’s breath as each table’s centerpiece, and elegant details like the white lights that hung from the ceiling and the large chandelier that hung by two ladders in the center of the barn. It was simple, classic, and beautiful. The touching ceremony showed how much the couple was truly in love and there wasn’t a dry eye in the place.

After the lovely ceremony, it was time to party! Guests were served a variety of refreshing beverages and a buffet-style dinner that included the most delicious bacon mac n’ cheese. Photos were snapped and family busted a move on the dance floor. And of course, traditions were kept as the bride tossed her bouquet into a crowd of single women and the groom tossed the garter into the group of single men.

Before I continue, I just want to let y’all know that that bouquet landed RIGHT in my hand, okay? Okay.

After the wedding, most of the guests went to a local bar to continue the party. We danced along with the live band and even gambled on some lotto tickets. I think I speak for everyone when I say we didn’t want the night to end.

The next day, we wanted to get together one more time. What better way to finish out this family reunion than over a savory breakfast?! We took up probably six tables in the middle of the restaurant, and definitely were responsible for at least 3/4 of the noise in that place, but it was a lovely family affair.

Snapchat: @natashakirkland

Later that day, my parents, aunt, and I headed to my aunt’s house for one final night in Indiana. After freshening up, we headed into the city of Indianapolis. My top tourist attraction was Lucas Oil Stadium. The house that Peyton Manning built. You could see the stadium from miles away and it looked massive up close. Sadly, the Peyton Manning statue hasn’t yet been built, but hey, once it’s complete, it’s another excuse to go visit!

We did a little bar hopping, ate at Scotty’s Brewhouse, and walked the streets of Indy. It was a warm night with a bright pink sky, and a lovely way to end our trip to Indiana.

I had such a wonderful time getting to know my family out west and I really hope I can visit again soon. Who knows, maybe they’ll want to take a trip up to Central New York soon! I mean, I am the next to get married, after all.

Xo, Nat