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Crazy In Love

PERSONAL

Sometimes I worry about putting things out there.

Like people will think I am just plum crazy.

But then I remember that I kinda am.

Soooo it should come as no surprise that I am head over heels in love.  Yes.  I said it.  And I’m not talking about a fine man named Jeremy Bower.  I am talking about a nearby town.  It’s called Monroe and I must warn you….I become a sappy mess talking about it.

 

We were first introduced to the very small town of Monroe back in 2011 when we moved nearby.  Monroe had free downtown concerts and I am never one to pass up anything free.  And I mean ANYTHING.  I talked about that fond experience here.  In my past, I had never had any real interaction with this town (well…unless you count a speeding ticket in college)…so it wasn’t like I grew up thinking that this little run down town was the cream of the crop.  I do like old buildings though that ooze character and this place has just that.  In fact, when I started photography, this was a go-to place for me for sessions so over the last few years, a lot of fun happened here…and recently we began just exploring more and more of this sleepy little town with our friends, family and boys.

 

On top of that, we also have quite a few friends that recently moved nearby….renovating homes they got for uber-cheap.

So why does this make me crazy?

Well…here’s where it gets all wacky….I want a piece of it.

I get it…we own a dream house…it’s on the perfect piece of property with great neighbors in a safe neighborhood.  I get it.  We have it all.  (at least by outside standards).  But I also know that Jeremy and I have both had this gut feeling that one day…perhaps…just maybe….if we are lucky, that we want to somehow invest in something in that little town of Monroe.  Maybe a house.  Maybe a business.  Maybe a tiny chunk of land.  We don’t know right now 100% but something.

I think part of it is us just believing in this little town…a historic place that desperately needs revitalization and renewal.  Part of it might be a pipe dream…a place that I could do photography workshops with other moms learning how to use their DSLR’s…or a place that we do whole getaway weekends where blog readers could get together and just retreat and craft together…a place that we could tweak slowly over the years and eventually retire after all our kids are grown and gone.  Part of it just feels like a really good investment.

I don’t know why this is so scary to say…but it’s something in our dreams.  It’s something that doesn’t make a whole lot of ‘paper’ sense.  Mostly because it has no real focal point right now…there are tons of opportunities here but nothing has wheels in motion.  But sometimes those feelings…those feelings deep in your gut…those twinges and stirrings…I believe they can come from a higher power.  I believe sometimes things that don’t make sense when you feel them…sometimes you find out why later.  I believe that God can lead us.  And sometimes that path is paved and sometimes it’s on an unbeaten trail through the woods.  And sometimes it makes you look crazy.  But to me, the crazier thing is to not dream.

I just wanted to share with you…my friends…where we were.  Not quite in Monroe…yet…but perhaps one day, I can link back to this post and tell ya how we got our foot in the door…or where that gut feeling led us.  Till then, let’s talk dreams….what’s yours?

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  1. I love what you said about how God can lead us and it doesn’t always make sense! God has been stretching me SO FAR out of my comfort zone in so many ways lately — laying opportunities in my path and leaving it up to me to take a chance with them. And I have been. And it’s been scary. And amazing! I hope to see a follow up post to this one day soon! 🙂

  2. I own the Brusters Real Ice Cream on Highway 11 in Monroe. It’s wonderful place filled with some wonderful people. Someday I would like to renovate and live in the little house that’s on the Bruster property myself! I thought I was the only one with that dream!

  4. Own and operate a coffee booth. That is only open mon-fri 5:30a – 10:30a. Coffee, tea, and scones.

    My only question is …where do you pee if you are working in one of those booths?

  5. We got married in May in Monroe at a little place called the Cotton Warehouse and spent our wedding night at the Wayfarer Hotel (right downtown), so it is a special place for us too! 🙂 And the farmers market in the summer is very cool!

  6. My dream is to be able to stay home with our kids, with our first baby due January 22, 2014. A baby girl 🙂 Right now the numbers just aren’t working in our favor, and Satan is really trying to discourage me from believing that it’s possible, but I just keep praying and praying that God will make a way! I know I am called to be at home, so I know He will make it a reality, I just need to take it one day at a time 🙂

    And BONUS! Your wonderful father-in-law is praying along with us at Parkway! 🙂

  7. oh I would so travel the 8 hours to Atlanta for a DSLR class taught by you! I love all your pictures and find you so inspiring. So if this does happen, mark my words, I will be the first student! #makeithappen

  8. We frequent Monroe and I totally get what you are saying here. Monroe exudes charm. We’ve casually (would never do it) talked about buying a portion of one of the buildings and living upstairs and having some type of business downstairs. That row of buildings right off the square but facing Spring Street – not the north side, but the south side across and down from Mike Cash’s place.

    So, no, you’re not crazy! There is absolutely nothing wrong with being a dreamer and a doer!

  10. One of my most favorite things to do is to go somewhere I have never been, eat in a place that I’ve never tried, and explore! Thanks for giving me a new place to put on my list of “places to go” !! I live in a small town (not too far from you) Flowery Branch ! And it is downtown is in the midst of renewal that I am beyond excited about !!! Keep dreaming !!! (LOVE YOUR BLOG )

  11. My dream is to be able to sell the furniture I make and make enough money to be abke to have a little homestead. Mostly I want my own dairy cow. I am a bit crazy.

  12. we too (husband and I) have a pipe dream to own real estate in our small city/recovering coastal town. Things are happening around here. The property prices are low, but we just bought our first place in Feb of this year, and are in the throes of student loan pay-down-asap.
    Some day though, I’d love one of those older buildings in the downtown, with a shop in the bottom level, studio in the middle, and amazing third floor home with great views. Someday. Just gotta keep throwing the pennies in the coin jar. It’s cool how God gives us these hopes and dreams, to strive for.

  16. Go with the gut feelings! We followed my husband’s gut feeling to move back to his hometown and open a pediatric practice. God sustained us through the opening and subsequent years. And then when decided to really shake things up and move his practice into the first floor of our 200 year old home, God got us through that too! Here we are two years into that, and thinking about how to build our dream home. Gut feelings have lead us down some awesome adventures. And God has made it pretty evident that He has our back. We could not have done it without him. I am excited to see where this gut feeling takes you 🙂

  17. I can completely understand your dream…. in 2 ways…. 1st…. about 3 years ago, we got a wild hair to look at lots at the beach…. happen to find one we could afford….. now we just completed construction on our home there…. it’s surreal! Second- we live in a town much like Monroe (Davidson, NC)…. but we live at the very edge of the town limits, we dream of owning a home in walking distance to town…. one day 🙂

  18. I get it! I dream of owning my own business some day. My husband thinks I’m nuts, but I know that deep down that is what I’m meant to do. Not sure what or how, but as my children get older I see that I can show them what it’s like to follow your dreams and pursue what makes you happy. We live in a little town in Southern NJ that sounds an awful lot like Monroe and I would love to build my business right here on Main Street. Not only is it a block from our house, but I want to support our little town, too. Here’s to dreaming! Good luck with yours!

  19. We love our house and our neighbors and our area and everything – it’s wonderful. That doesn’t stop my heart from sighing when I drive by farms with big fenced pastures where we could have an orchard, grow Christmas trees and have a large pumpkin patch. It doesn’t stop the nag to have our own woodlot – a homestead we could call our own that isn’t 1.1 acres. We’re very incredibly blessed, and I wouldn’t change anything right now – but I’m open to what the future puts in my path which is scary to say because I don’t particularly like large changes. I have this feeling that we won’t be leaving our house, but we’ll still somehow get the land nearby. I’m not sure how it would work, but I also know it’s possible.

  20. I dream like this all of the time. I think you need to show us more pics of the house being renovated in the above pic. It looks beautiful!!

  21. Katie, do you have any updates on your first house? The last time you posted the renters had moved out and their rent-to-own deal fell through and you guys were stuck cleaning…yuck! Did you put it back on the market?

  22. Katie, I have been following along with your daily ventures for a few months now and have never left a comment because I figure, what’s one more? You are busy enough. But today I couldn’t help myself. Your writing seems so natural and is absolutely captivating. Your honest approach is refreshing and I wanted to take the time to thank you for that today. I have the tendency, like many I am sure, to look in on your online world here and be envious of how ‘together’ you seem to be. But as I read along, your frankness reminds me that your family has worked to get where you which encourages me to keep my head up and press on.

    You are one to be admired.

    I look forward to check in and see what you and your clan are getting up to next. Maybe one day I will find out you have made it to Monroe.

    Cheers,

    Allison {slippersbyday.blogspot.ca}

  23. We were created to be dreamers! And I have to say- what a fun dream/idea to think and daydream about. Especially with your husband. I wish we had a fun pipe dream to scheme about together right now! Can’t wait to see if something amazing happens for you guys in that sweet little sleepy town.

  24. I had been, of late, wanting to open a fabric store in our town’s historic district. The closest such thing is 30 miles away. In spite of the fact that our largest job provider has folded with unfunded government projects and it seems many here in this sleepy town are still staring at the moon like it’s 1969. Then there is the other inside of me who wants to dig up our roots and travel to Unreached people, Africa, China, Indonesia, some great adventure. I have no training who do I think I am. I just want to do great things for God, but then he gently whispers to me and reminds me that I am, as I sit home and sow into the lives of three little boys. So those are some dreams.

  25. Shoot for the moon and if you miss you’ll land among the stars! Don’t quit dreaming….after a quick realtor search I think I want to move to Monroe, GA too. We live in WV (which is considered one of the poorest states in the country), houses like the ones I saw for $110k there would be $250 – $300k here….craziness. Except, I can’t deal with the GA heat, we lived near Lake Oconee right out of college but didn’t enjoy the GA summers.

  26. I went to UGA for undergrad and one of my best friends was from Monroe. I visited his family there several times. I love small, southern towns, being from one myself (Bristol, TN). I especially love when they get revitalized, but not overbuilt! Sounds like a great dream.

  27. For years, I had a gut sense about owning a little white house on the water. Well, last week we found it, and yesterday we had the inspection, and next week we close.

    It took 2 moves and 1 baby to get there. As in, we had to move from VA to UT and then from UT to WA. Along the way, we welcomed our daughter.

    I found the house online, and said “that’s it!” 2 days later we looked at it and boom! The next day our offer was accepted.

    The house is perfect for us. It’s super private, on lots of land, has tons of play space, and needs some loving.

    Some others thought we were crazy to go for it. Our situation is not the norm by any means, and it took some creative juggling to make things work. Yet, we believed. We knew.

    When it all came down to it, it was there. Just waiting. Perfect. Beautiful. And oh, the carved front door… can I gush about that on the enclosed patio for a moment? We’re holding our daughter’s first birthday there.. once we clean it up. In December.

  28. Wow, this post is just perfect in timing…..my husband and I have had a dream to start a business to help photographers/artists use their art to raise money for charities. It has felt so overwhelming for the last 5+ years that we just haven’t made much progress, and we finally decided to just go for it, get a site up, get some photographers, throw some fun events and see where it takes us. And this time, I truly believe God has hand in it opening doors. Which leads us to our next dream, having jobs where we can live near our family in Savannah. We just love the charm and know it’s where we want to raise our kids, just have to wait for the right moment. So I totally get it….keep dreaming, God’s timing will make it happen!

  29. It has always been a dream of mine to open a bed & breakfast in a small town. This town looks lovely.

  30. I must admit I rarely identify with your posts. You’re in my blog roll but I seldom click through to the blog itself and only read maybe half your posts. What can I say, we’re just very different people 🙂 and I don’t connect with a lot of what you share.

    But this. This I get. We have a home I love in a neighborhood that’s great, close to family and work. But I have a dream tucked away of owning property in a certain place. A place where we can spend weekends, invite extended family to come and stay, our own little getaway in a place we love.

    It’s not a dream I share with many people (I think my husband may be the only one). Because it sounds crazy, and does it make sense… and the cost… and the work… but it’s a cherished dream none the less. I hope you get yours someday.

  31. Katie, you aren’t crazy at all! This is a beautiful dreaming post.

    Many years ago, I woke up with this crazy feeling that I had to be a camp counselor for the summer. The thing is, I had already signed a contract to work in admissions at my college for those months. But this gut feeling was so strong that I applied to 9 different camps and told the admissions staff that I wasn’t going to be able to work there after all.

    Fast forward a few weeks, and I was on a plane from Maryland to the heart of Texas for 14 straight weeks of heat and kids and all things camp. That summer was the most unbelievable summer I’ve ever experienced…I met the love of my life…my heart was changed…and I learned that stepping outside of comfortable and entering crazy can be a really wonderful thing.

    Keep dreaming, it’s a beautiful thing. I hope one day you’re writing a post about your new home or shop in Monroe! You go girl!

    God bless,
    Blair

  32. Ah, dreams. Mine is to own a farm. A full-out grass-grazin’, utter-milking, chicken-pecking farm. Turns out, it is my husband’s, as well. God willing, one day we’ll get there. Remember Joseph and his dreams (Genesis 37-50)? I keep a hold of that story when it looks like we’ll never get there. Because if it is God’s will, we will! Like the story tells and like you said, it may just be a bumpy road to get there. I’ll be praying God opens doors for your dream, Katie!

  33. Ahhh.. I am totally on the dream boat with you. My parents just recently moved back to the small farm town my grandfather was born and raised (Siler City, NC– it even sounds small, right?) There was some family land and my uncle across a pasture (no kidding) so they took the dive and moved… and now I am wistfully dreaming that one day I can purchase some land, build a home and my babies can drive across the farm on their 4 wheelers to see their pawpaw. (ie: there is NO farm, or babies… yet)

    for most people its simple.. move where your family is… but my husband is active duty marine corps so its ludicrous to think that 25, with 12-18 years left in service that we should be looking at land and dreaming… but we are. insane.

    so cheers to big dreams in small towns and hoping that it all comes true one day <3 I cant wait to see what comes next Bowers.

  34. so this has basically nothing to do with the content of your post… but what is the baby carrier you’re using? it’s really cute and looks like it’s comfortable!!

  35. Totally get it! I married a man with a passion for home construction so we are lucky enough to get to design and build our dream house from scratch! But…I sometimes get “jealous” of all the bloggers I follow who are working on their fixer uppers – looks so much fun!! Maybe I can convince my man to flip some houses!? Who knows!?

  36. I love beautiful historic small towns! I grew up in a small town in northwestern Illinois and let me tell you it was idyllic. I now live just 20 miles away in a neighboring city and I love visiting my parents there. I find that it’s a refreshing change of pace. I feel like small towns are so accepting of big dreams and making them happen. I love the idea of a work space for people to come and create and learn!! I think it would be an excellent idea!

  37. I love Monroe as well. There is a antique store that opened not far from the downtown area, Ian Henderson’s Antique Mall and it’s in an old factory. It is such a neat space. It does get really warm in there since there is not any air but there are a ton of vendors in there with some really neat items. You should definitely check it out if you haven’t already.

  38. A few times now, I have caught things in your blog that makes me feel like you don’t really love your house, or that it is not “you”. Don’t get me wrong, it is a gorgeous house. And, although lots of people would love to live there (resale!) I hope you don’t feel like you need to stay because people would think you were crazy to give it up. It just might not be the right “shoe”.

  39. I don’t think your dream sounds crazy at all! My dream would be for my little etsy shop to be enough of an income that I don’t feel guilty for staying home even though both of my kids are in school now. (totally self inflicted guilt, my hubby says he doesn’t care if I ever work outside of the home) I also sometimes think that someday it would be awesome if I could open up a sweet little fabric shop that has fun bright fabrics and I would also host crafty events there. Someday, maybe, just not anytime soon while my kiddos are so young.

  40. Monroe looks so cute. Although I’ve never been there my husband and I have a similar dream. He grew up in the south and I’ve always loved those parts so living in an old small town with a town square would be amazing. For now we’re living in our current dream house just outside of Los Angeles where we will be for the forseeable future since my husband works in music. And waiting on our second dream baby due in just a few weeks. Nice to have the dreams but be living them too! Can’t wait to hear more about Monroe.

  42. Katie, I know exactly how you feel and what you mean. My husband and I have a dream of one day moving to the country and being self-sufficient, having a farm with lots of animals and living off the grid. It sounds absolutely crazy and very far off as of right now but it is what is in my gut and has been for a while and I can’t ignore it. I’m not a religious person but I agree with you that these feelings, these voices, these pulls are within us for a reason. It’s like nature is trying to sway us to where we are supposed to be. I hope you and your family are able to pull off whatever your dreams entail. Hopefully sooner than later!

  43. “But sometimes those feelings…those feelings deep in your gut…those twinges and stirrings…I believe they can come from a higher power. I believe sometimes things that don’t make sense when you feel them…sometimes you find out why later. I believe that God can lead us. And sometimes that path is paved and sometimes it’s on an unbeaten trail through the woods. And sometimes it makes you look crazy.”

    Amen! I needed this today. Thank you, Katie!

  44. I just have this GUT feeling that I should have a job that allows me to be more creative. One that allows me to at least slightly rely on my construction management degree that I have not used since I graduated 14 years ago. I have been selling auto parts for 20 years (since I was 16) and I just feel this NEED to do something with houses.

  45. I love hearing your love for small towns. My husband is a UGA grad and did his student teaching at Monroe Area High School (and boy does he have some stories from that place…) We have yet to fully explore the town, but we did have a friend that got married there and it was an absolutely breathtaking venue.

    Keep loving on nearby towns. Everywhere deserves revitalization.

  46. I hope you guys go for it! I’m a total sucker for an old town in need of some rehabing! 😉 My absolute dream job would be to renovate homes in need of some lovin’ and help rehabilitate a community, one house/business/public place at a time. So, so excited for you guys – I hope you can make it happen!

  47. So familiar with that area, since my brother lives near there (Loganville) He first lived in Social Circle, which is another little town near there….lovely place!

  48. Hi, Katie! I read all of the time and never comment, but when it comes to dreams — I have trouble keeping my mouth shut. Well, that’s a lie. I never talk about it out loud, in real life — I keep my biggest dream(s) to myself because I don’t want someone to tell me I’m crazy. My dreams are too personal to be squashed like a bug.

    By trade, I’m a web designer, and I love it. My dream? Is to work from home. I’d love to build pretty websites for people at a price that is both fair to my clients and me. I can’t tell you how many people over-pay for web work (and crappy web work at that). It hurts my heart.

    And I want to be a calligrapher. I have taken one class, after that one class, I learned that I needed something else — a different teacher, a different style — but still, it helped me learn what I DO need in order to make this dream come true. I want to learn calligraphy and spend afternoons penning envelopes while I watch Ellen and listen to my dog snore.

    *happy sigh* Someday, maybe. :o)

    Thanks for sharing YOUR dream! I sure hope it comes true.

  49. Sarah,
    I work for a small home builder and I love it. Every single day is different. For my job its anywhere from product development, to colors, permitting, website, Facebook, Pinterest the whole 9 yards! It is stressful most days but it is super rewarding and a LOT of fun 🙂

    Good luck!

  50. We really enjoyed doing our photo shoot with you in Monroe. Such a sweet town! I love your idea to offer photography classes.

    We had both lived overseas before we met, and my husband and I dream of doing it again some day together.

  51. I moved around a bit as a kid, always in the southeast. My dad lived in Georgia and from grades 3-6 we lived in Loganville. My sister still lives there and the rest of my family is over in Snellville/Lawrenceville. I live in Alabama though. Anyways, one of my best friends ever lived in Monroe/Between (yes, there is a town called Between so you live “in Between”) and it was really awesome. When I was a little girl I always told everyone I would one day own the Tara mansion. It’s a little girl’s dream.

    Anyways. Just sharing my love for that little area.

    There is something scary about telling people your hopes for the future. There is always this air of “will they think I am naive?” “what if things don’t work that way or I change my mind?” It’s like me telling others that I hope we have a big family with at least 3 children. We don’t have any yet so I get the looks of “yeah… that’s what you think” or in the back of my head wonder if we will have issues conceiving or are only able to have one child… then everyone will feel sorry for me because I wanted a big family. Sound crazy? yeah, I over think things. You aren’t alone.

  52. I love hearing this. We have dreams of moving back to our small college town and investing in the city. Hopefully it works out somehow!

  53. Right now I have a daughter about to go to college, and I need to pay for that! But…I would love to see more of your bouncing baby boy giggling his head off! That’s my (little) dream! Please?

  55. hey Katie, we love Monroe too! Sadly, my nephew is buried in the cemetery there but it’s meant that we’ve gathered as a family lots in recent years in Monroe and it’s become a special place. On the owning a piece of it – I mentioned to a friend that I couldn’t help but want to fix up every dilapidated building I saw and quite profoundly he compared it to the power of the gospel – it’s restorative, it’s redemptive. I’m not surprised that bubbles out of you!

  56. Oh it’s no secret that such a big house with so much ornate-ness is not really my style…but the lot is very much what I want. I love having a big yard and a creek and a safe neighborhood and good school districts. That is hard to find. Don’t get me wrong….we are very blessed to have so much space but the design of it all? Not what I would have chosen…but we will probably live here for a very long time.
    xo kb

  60. A little historic studio for doing photography workshops would be so fun! With a room in the back for your kiddos to hang out with a sitter while you work up front. You could maybe even rent the place out to other women for the days of the week you wouldn’t be needing it. I know a woman who does that for Mary Kay, leased a place for her to hold her workshops on the weekends, and when she isn’t using it, she rents it to other women for whatever business purposes they need it for.

  61. It looks so charming, I can see why you’re crazy in love! My hubs and I live the good life as well, nothing wrong with what we have and where we’re at, but… There are always those charming towns that call out for us to join them and add our special touch. Cosmic alignment or something, but if you feel it, don’t resist!!

  62. I LOVE this post!!! Mostly because I get it…. I am right there with you dreaming. My husband and I dream of living on a farm. I want LOTS of land for my kids and eventually their kids (years from now) to roam. I want animals and a big red barn. And then to top it off I want a farm house that has character and so many stories. We LOVE to antique shop and buying an old farm house would just be the ultimate antique purchase for us. One day…….

  63. Katie,
    I totally get it! I live in the suburbs of Detroit right now, but love the city so much. Even though it’s going through a rough time, there are great people doing great things there and I really want to be a part of it. I’ve thought about moving there and possibly opening a business. Good luck to you!!

  64. Thank you so much for sharing this….my hubs and I are in the process of purchasing a new home (after just completely renovating our current house) and everyone thinks we have lost our minds. And maybe we have…but despite it not totally making sense it just feels right…a feeling I’ve been trying to reconcile because on the surface it doesn’t make sense. So, thank you…great post!!

  65. My husband and I dream of a day where we get to remodel homes together. We are one of those odd couples that doesn’t tire of each other (usually). Our neighbor gave us his one car garage so we picked it up and moved it to our backyard. Here’s how we turned it from a garage into an adorable little cottage.
    http://www.krusesworkshop.blogspot.com/

  68. My husband was a member of the 178th Military Police Company headquartered in Monroe. When was commander, I spent time in Monroe. The people there are great and they are very proud and supportive if their Guardsman. The real estate value and small town character aren’t available in Alpharetta…that’s for sure.

  71. I’m soo glad you wrote this! I have that exact same feeling when thinking about “out-there” dreams/gut feelings…like somehow it’s dangerous to say it out loud. I always admire those brave enough (or crazy enough) to take the leap and just do it. In my soul I know that gut feelings are God’s nudge, but then why is it so hard to go for it? My leap is a flower shop. God speed my dear.

  72. I definitely agree with you that often times God puts a desire in our heart for things we don’t yet understand. He’s lead me that way many times and it often isn’t until that dream or desire is filled that I see all the many ways He’s lead me to the exact right place at the exact right time. Even better, His result is often way greater than what I had even dared to dream. 🙂

  73. My dream is to open some kind of stationery or invitation shop. But like you, it just doesn’t work on paper right now. I’m finishing up a second degree, fiancé is weeks from his own business opening up (his dream come true!), and, oh yeah, that whole wedding thing. So I’m thinking of working a year or two in the corporate world after school and slowly starting the business on the side. If it gains steam I’ll eventually go for it gung-ho. Keep dreaming Bowers, that’s how it all starts!! 🙂

  74. I totally get this. Sometimes God gives us dreams and designers only he can understand sometimes. It would be such a blessing for you guys to be able to share your lives in that way. I don’t think it’s crazy at all. I pray one day you do get that house you dream of!

  75. I love to hear that! I live in a small town where there are not really any homebuilders, I’m not sure we are big enough to support one. There are just so many factors to consider when changing careers! Especially when it comes to money, benefits and insurance!

  76. Looks like Clara P. is making a cameo in your blog.

    Small towns need to be nourished by the love and faith of others. That is what makes the charm of an older town. May your dreams continue to grow and your heart find what it wants.

  77. Monroe is SO pretty–I agree! I have some friends who recently bought a house on McDaniel and renovated it. It’s ah-maz-ing. Plus, if you moved there, you could walk to Amici (which is obviously the most important thing). We live in Madison and love the small-town vibe, too. Before we moved here, I had those same feelings that you have about Monroe. Go after them dreams, girl!

  79. This is a little random, but is this the same Monroe that’s in this Florida Georgia Line video???!

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7yg05svXp98

    I was listening to this song earlier today and when I saw the sign at the beginning of the video I thought it looked familiar. Took me a second to realize I had seen it in your blog post just a few hours before!

    Anyway, just a funny coincidence I had to share. 🙂

  81. Love this post! I appreciate your honesty and your fears of sharing that we all have. You are not crazy. Dreams are what keep us going. This sounds like an awesome dream. The best part of it is, you and Jer are on the same page about it. Sometimes that can be half the battle. I’m in Australia, but I’m all for all of the ideas you put forward and…I’m guessing you have a few more private ideas in the pipeline too. Different strokes for different folks, just because these ideas don’t fit everyone, don’t mean they aren’t just perfect for the Bowers. I can’t wait to hear, once you do finally move into Monroe in some way, I can tell right now, it will bring a smile to my face.

  82. Well for the last month I have been dreaming of a house we put an offer on .. perfect layout .. awesome location .. huge yard .. only to find out it has major basement water issues .. and the owners refuse to recognize the cost to rectify the issue .. bummmer .. oh well .. time to move on to another dream!

  83. There is this tiny town in Washington that I want to move to so badly. It is against all logic and I just love it there. I hear you, sister. Here’s to your dream!

  85. I understand your dream. I have a similar one; I would love to rehab old buildings in a small town, and especially old houses. I joke with my husband that I’d like to be like those people on American Pickers that have their own towns made up of old buildings they’ve rescued.

    My other dream is to buy some land in the country and build an energy efficient straw bale house, with solar panels and a rainwater preservation system, all that kind of stuff. Maybe even have miniature donkeys or goats, although I’m not entirely sure why. I’d just like to have enough land to let my kids run around and have lots of wide open space and fresh air. I don’t expect to get the first one done, but I really think we can make the second one happen.

  89. Precious dream, KB! The Lord absolutely stirs our hearts in ways we do not understand, but sometimes it’s just in the knowing that there’s an inkling of that possibility that brings such joy to your soul and a sappy grin to your face. So here’s to sappy joyful dreaming!

  97. We have new renters (purely renting this time) and we refinanced to make the payments a bit less and for the capability to cover the mortgage and then some extra for repairs with just rent. We were pretty fast at cleaning it and the real estate agent that we used for the lease/purchase found the renters.
    xo – kb

  98. Really?…You don’t?…You have no idea…about ellipses…like…you seriously don’t know what they are?…wow….

  99. I love that idea too, Katie – & you could also use it as a studio for indoor shoots when the weather is not so good, and crafting, and anything! You could have an amazing space that gets hired out for any or all of those things.

    I have been reading your blog for a while, but not commented. This post speaks soooo much to me though, I just had to!

    My dream, there are so many! To get my little blog happening (of which I have written only 1 post! – eek) . Funny thing is it has just been sitting there and I haven’t been writing for it just because I am stalled in lack of faith of my own ability!) to flip a cute little old house. We live in a new build but I have always wanted an old fixer-upper with charm and character. How ungrateful does that sound! And to have my own little business that has something to do with food, with styling, with fun & genuine relationships somehow – not exactly sure what or how but these things have all been stirring in my soul for ages and yet I don’t seem to push enough to get any of them anywhere.

    Woah, ok, didn’t expect all that to come out, but now that it has, I’m not going to delete it like I usually would. Instead, I’m going to let that be, out in the world!

    Good luck with your dream, I sincerely hope whatever it becomes works out for you 🙂

    Mish xx

  100. I love your dream. God definitely speaks to us, and sometimes we’re like, Whaaaa? But it all works out in the end.

    My dream is to have a child. Today was our 10th anniversary and while we did enjoy a pregnancy last winter, it ended too soon.

  102. You’ve got to feel it Katie, and when you do, you’ll know. Believe, and it will happen. mwah Hx

  103. I could’ve written this comment myself 🙂 Except my girl is a year and a half. Keep praying! 🙂

  105. An ellipse is three dots after a statement, sometimes given to implicate a dramatic pause…

    And so what, I do that all day…lol (WOW)

    I hope you get to recognize your dream. My husband just went to a funeral in his home state of Utah (we live in Virginia Beach) and realized right there that it’s his dream to reconnect with his old friends and family that still live in Utah…………..so we are talking about moving there!! I couldn’t be more thrilled, I wish we could leave tomorrow. Good luck!! xoxo

  106. Ha! An ellipse is…wait for it…the three periods! 🙂 Write how ya feel, girl! Elipses and all! 🙂

  107. I love this! It’s true for me too, that expressing my dreams–especially the ones that are most undefined (yet somehow most important) is so scary! You’ve been encouraging to me today, though (many days after the actual post. Sorry, I’m behind!) I think its true that the scarier thing is to not follow those dreams we truly feel God has placed on our hearts! Thanks for the reminder!

  109. That is such a lovely dream to have!

    I’m 27 and 2 days ago, I decided I want to become a Psychiatrist. It’s scary. I have at least 15 years of schooling ahead!

    I think girls like us have to dream big and get the most out of life. If that dream makes you happy, then dream big!

    PS.
    I like all your ellipses… and I want a tattoo of an infinity & an ellipses… lol…

  110. Critical people tend to be unhappy people…don’t let it get to you.
    For your edification 🙂

    Ellipsis-a series of dots that usually indicate an intentional omission of a word or sentence. It can also be used to indicate an unfinished thought, a trailing off to silence.

    The spirit of the article is what matters.

  111. So much coveting here lately. This week we’ve heard about wanting clothes, the new iphone, and now this that you’re wishing for. What happened to all of the wonderful, beautiful things that you have? We haven’t heard anything new with your home or three children.

    We’d love to see or hear about the plans for Weston’s nursery. Did Will ever come home from Nana camp? How is the pregnancy treating you? You’ve said you love doing weekly pics and fun ideas you’re thinking of?

    You’re amazing basement can host workshops. This is a great wish/dream, let it grow from a seed to truly blossom.

  112. It’s amazing to me how sometimes God puts stuff on your heart that seems insane, but you just know is right. I’m currently experiencing that with a possible move across the country. All of my friends think I’m nuts but I just feel like God has been preparing us for it. Keep dreaming 🙂 He’ll make it happen.

  113. What Genevieve said ^. 🙂 Hold onto that dream, Katie — who knows what might come of it. My dream is for my husband and I to retire to a sailboat and sail the world telling people about Jesus. Crazy, right? Sailing missionaries, ha! But maybe God will bless it and us…He does work in mysterious ways. 😉

  115. I love this post!

    My husband and I would love to own our own winery some day (we know nothing about growing grapes…just drinking wine!) Who knows whether that is in the cards for us, but it is fun to dream and see where it goes from there!

  116. I actually enjoy your use of ellipses. Those little dots allow me to read your words as though you were speaking to me…your virtual “voice” is one of the reasons I love your blog!

  117. It’s the “…” In the sentences. I do it all the time too haha. I always say proper grammar is for rich people who hate themselves. Kidding!

  118. For some reason, this made me excited to know that you live near my parents in Winder, Ga. Totally made my day!

  120. Dreams r always personal……very brave 0f u to let it out.
    Also, have you done any posts on how you teach’ your Will? Just saw your Instagram pics….. curious!

  122. Loved reading your post today. I have had the same kind of feeling about our future and I tend to think up reasons why it wouldn’t work or it doesn’t make sense, even though it feels right in many ways. I look forward to watching how your story unfolds. You gave me a boost today, Katie B, and reminded me that God does lead us … when we listen.

  123. although I don’t understand her need for pointing it out…and ellipse is…(…) or dot dot dot… ……… 🙂 I actually quite love this post. Everyone had dreams!

  125. You are right. I have been talking about that want-list a lot lately! I guess it’s because I get to celebrate those ‘blossoms’ with my family and friends in real life! But I do need to remember to talk about it here too 🙂 Thanks for the reminder!
    xo – kb

  129. We have a place like this that we dream of living in someday. Money and life situations don’t permit it now, but it’s so fun to dream! And I am a huge advocate for following your dreams. Sometimes God gives you little hints and nudges – and sometimes they’re great big shoves – in a direction He wants you to go. What’s better than to follow HIS dreams for us?? Thanks for sharing your dreams with us! 🙂

  131. Sorry but you don’t have enough technical aptitude to teach others about photography stick with painting hideous furniture with sticky tape and hot gluing placemats to
    Your windows and calling them blinds

  133. Katie,

    I love this post. I love our little town of Monroe. While, neither my husband or myself grew up here we decided to plant ourselves here after college to start our careers and family. We definitely made the right decision.

  134. Well someone didn’t get to take their nap today did they? As a side note, it must be difficult for people to have so much negativity in their body that they have to spew it onto other people. I call it “troll vomit”.

  135. I love this. I know how it feels to be the “dreamer” and have others look at you like you have two heads. Crazy thing is… the more you dream, the dreams become plans and it all becomes a self fulfilling prophecy. I know my dreams may seem crazy but over time I’ve made steps to get me closer to those dreams and things are happening!

    I love the idea of using a place for shoots and photography classes too– genius!

  136. Why are you people even reading blogs if all you do is comment negatively?! Don’t you have a better use for your time. Katie, you’re awesome, and don’t you let anyone tell you differently!

  138. My dream is simple. To have a home for my family. We’re currently living with family in order to get on our feet financially, and what they say is true: it’s hard! I dream every single day about having our own place, with outdoor space for the kids, a workshop for my loving man and a crafting space for myself. There’s no way we’re able to buy anytime soon, so we know a rental is the way to go, but it will still be our own space. And I can’t wait!

  140. Hi Katie,
    We just realized one of our dreams that we really NEVER imagined would happen. It just sort of fell in our laps, but we actually took the leap. We were frequent customers of a small antique/collection/furniture/junk store and one day we came in and they said they were moving and said we should buy it….well….we did!! It’s been a crazy process because we both work other full time jobs but this past week my hubby put in his two weeks notice and will be doing the store full time!

  141. Hey Katie,
    It was so nice meeting you and your Little boy in Kroger the other day. As for Monroe I was born and raised here. I love it here. I moved after college and met my husband and when he offered me the chance to come back I jumped at it. I so love your blog. Thank you for the great advice and remember if you ever need any coupons let me know. Thanks so much. Jane

  146. Aww. I miss Monroe so much. I know that sounds crazy to a lot of people. But I truly did feel at home there and loved that it was so tiny and filled with character.

  148. Oh. I know exactly how you feel. Except for me it has something to do with making music and singing songs on another continent. What you said about twinges and stirring deep down that can come from God? Straight on, woman. And yes, it does seem crazy…but give it time and a season to grow.

  149. Hi Katie – we may have a business opportunity for you in beautiful downtown Monroe! Not to make light of it, but our family business, Sanders Furniture Co., will be closing in early 2014, after being in business in Monroe for almost 90 years. My father, Charles, is retiring, and my sister Tora is making a career change. They are having a huge “Retirement Sale” that started on Saturday until closing, in case you need a great deal on nice furniture. http://www.facebook.com/SandersMonroe

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