David Chappell's Ceremony

This morning Terri picked me up in her husband's big truck, with Justin and Connie standing by to boost me up, if needed. I did fine, though I feared tipping the truck over as I climbed up into it. She drove us over to church to meet our 'gang' who were all riding together to witness David Chappell's swearing in ceremony in Tallahassee. This was so exciting and I was pleased to be included in the group invited to attend. I am proud of David and so glad for him getting started in his career in law, presently working for a judge in the appellate division for the State of FL. 

Judy talking with Hanna as Betty surveys the rotunda 

We were gathered into the courtroom where David's ceremony would take place. On the right side of the photo are his coworkers in the court house and on the left are family and friends. Center is David's mom, and his grandma who flew in from WY 

 In the center of this photo is Bethany, David's girlfriend

 Joi was surprised but thrilled that she would hold the Bible for her son's ceremony. David was sworn in by the judge for whom he works, Judge Osterhaus 

David and his boss, the judge, in the chambers

Following the ceremony we were invited downstairs to a reception for which Terri found herself serving as Hostess. She jumped right in to make sure the food was opened to serve and even cut the cake which was a marvelous German chocolate cake. This was somewhat appalling for Terri, who is a FL Seminole fan, serving food on Gator-colored partyware!

Terri and David's dad, Billy (Judy's oldest son) having a conversation while David enjoys his appetizers

Here is a group photo of family and friends gathered for David's celebration. I am fairly easy to pick out. Look for Hanna, Mike S., Judy, Terri, Betty, and Joi in the front row. In the back, toward the left find Michael, his brother, John, Bethany, David, Billy, Jessica (David's sister), brother-in-law, Ethan, and behind Betty is Hughie, a long-time friend of the Chappell family. The others are Joi's family members, one from as far away as CA. David was thrilled by the turnout for his big day!

We left church at 10:00 am and arrived in Tally after one rest stop with time to eat some lunch. We found an Olive Garden and urged along our nice waiter, Elijah, with our orders as we explained our somewhat tight schedule. He complied, but that stinker, Mike S., picked up the tab for all of us. Michael successfully got us from the restaurant to the court house (not downtown, thankfully) in time for the ceremony. 

The reception was nice: light appetizers and cake served, photos taken, and congratulations shared. Judy's family is joining her at home Saturday to celebrate Christmas and she was detailing where she is putting all the bodies. Now some of the plans have changed so Judy is unsure exactly how many people will come yet tonight as they were going to see Star Wars first. 

After we got back to church, we divided into our own vehicles (Mike S. went home because he had to get things ready for Sunday and working tomorrow). We reconvened our gang at Cracker Barrel for dinner. I loved my meatloaf and mashed potato meal! I got Mike S. a bottle of maple syrup for Christmas (shhh!) because he likes it so much. 

On Sunday Judy's family will join us for worship and then later in the day join in the caroling at the VA Hospital near St. Augustine. Later we gather back at church for a soup supper. I know laughter will ensue and I am looking forward to that fun!