From Ranch Work to a Harry Potter Wedding — My Week in 7 Stories

 

This week was a full one; busy but in the best kind of way. It had a little bit of everything: work, time with family, good food, new experiences, and one unforgettable wedding.

Monday started off productive. We had someone come out to mow several of the pastures at the ranch, and my father-in-law, Mike, went out to supervise and check out the type of equipment being used. The idea was to figure out whether it might make sense for us to invest in our own setup or keep hiring out the work.

The guy who’s been doing the mowing is a real professional. He’s done our pastures before, and he always leaves the place looking sharp. The lines are clean, the grass looks healthy, and his pricing is fair. So even though we like the idea of having our own equipment and doing it ourselves, there’s something to be said for outsourcing to someone who knows what they’re doing and takes pride in it. No final decision yet, but we’re leaning toward letting him keep it up.

By Thursday night, it was time to trade tractors for two-stepping. Holly and I went to our weekly line-dancing lessons, something we started recently as a way to try something new together. It’s become a highlight of our week.

Neither of us would claim to be naturals, but that’s part of the fun. There’s laughter every time we spin the wrong way or miss a beat, and the instructors are great about keeping things lighthearted. The place we go has a warm, community feel; people cheering each other on, a mix of beginners and veterans, and plenty of country music echoing through the room.

It’s the kind of night that reminds you it’s good to step out of your comfort zone now and then, even if you step on your partner’s toes in the process.

Outside of the ranch and the dance floor, most of my spare time this week went into video production. I’ve been filming a lot of content lately for the firm and for some of our business coaching projects.

One evening, Holly and I decided to shake things up and try a new Mexican restaurant; not our regular spot, but a newer, trendier place with bright decor, creative dishes, and a cocktail menu that looked like a work of art.

 

Feeling adventurous, I ordered a drink called the Pepino. The description said “a little heat,” which turned out to be the understatement of the year. It was blazing hot; way more spice than I’m used to, but it was actually delicious once I got past the burn. Holly got a big laugh out of watching me try to keep my cool.

The food was great, too; fresh guacamole, perfectly seasoned tacos, and a relaxed, upbeat atmosphere. We’ll definitely go back… though I might stick to a regular margarita next time.

On Thursday, I also set aside some time to donate blood. It’s something I try to do regularly because it’s simple, quick, and genuinely helpful to people in need.

Funny enough, I originally thought I was going to a mobile blood drive near the house, but I accidentally booked an appointment for the wrong week. The website defaulted to a different date, and I didn’t notice until I showed up. So instead of waiting, I went straight to a Red Cross donation center and gave there.

Every time I donate, I’m reminded how many lives are touched by something that takes less than an hour. It’s one of those small acts of kindness that ripple outward, and if you’ve never done it before, I highly recommend it.

Back home in Peachtree City, bow-hunting season opened a few weeks ago, and for a while it felt like the deer population had completely disappeared. But this week, they started showing back up again; grazing near the tree line and wandering across yards in the early morning.

It’s funny how seeing a few deer can make your day feel calmer. There’s something peaceful about watching them move so quietly through the trees, like they own the place; which, honestly, they kind of do.

Friday night was special... Ashley’s wedding!

Ashley’s one of our senior attorneys at the firm and someone who’s been part of our team for a long time. She and her fiancé had a beautiful ceremony, full of small personal touches that really reflected who they are as a couple.

There was a subtle Harry Potter theme woven through the event; tasteful little nods to the series, from decor to quotes on the tables. When we checked in, guests were handed themed goodie bags, which set the tone perfectly.

The venue itself was stunning — an outdoor garden ceremony surrounded by trees and soft lights, followed by a cozy indoor reception. The food was fantastic, too — heavy on the meats (which is always fine by me). It’s not every day you go to a wedding where the food’s that good; nothing dry or bland, just well-seasoned, hearty dishes that kept everyone happy.

Several of our team members from the firm were there, so it was great catching up outside of work, celebrating, and just enjoying a relaxed evening together.

By the end of the night, it was clear everyone had a blast; great music, laughter, and a couple who couldn’t stop smiling.

After all the activity, Sunday hit like a ton of bricks. Holly and I were wiped out but in the good kind of way that comes from a full week of doing things you love. We spent most of the day just resting, catching up on a few chores, and recharging for the week ahead. Sometimes slowing down is the best way to wrap things up.

Looking back, this week had a little bit of everything; work, laughter, good food, giving back, and celebrating milestones with people who matter. It’s easy to let busy weeks slip by unnoticed, but when you take a second to reflect, you realize how full they really are.

Whether it’s the simple pleasure of a clean pasture, learning a few new dance steps, or watching friends say “I do,” it all adds up to a life well-lived.

Until next week,
Shane

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