Kendra Furlow

Time spent around the Furlow family never presents a dull moment. My mom, although brilliant when pertaining to academic knowledge, has to be one of the most innocently oblivious women on this planet. She can't help herself when a catchy tune plays aloud. Despite her usual clumsy habits, she never thinks twice before she starts dancing around the room. My Dad exemplifies the role of a southern father almost perfectly. He spends his leisure time watching sports, fixing cars, and controlling the remote. However, his laid back mood stabilizes my Mother's entertainment, and he provides enough common knowledge needed for our family. Together they have transformed our household into what we like to call, “classy rednecks.”

Now we have grown up and separated ourselves throughout the country. My oldest brother, Rusty, is now married and will graduate from the U.S. Navy Nuclear Program in Charleston this month. He’ll soon spend his months on top of an aircraft carrier or below the sea in a submarine. Davey graduates from the Air Force Academy in Colorado this May. It won't be long before my brothers are further dispersed among our nation. Now I have left as well to start my journey, forcing my parents to claim their empty house alone. We have all grown use to the miles that separate us from each other, but it has taught us to cherish the moments when we are united. This picture depicts our first family vacation together in eight years. This was taken in September 2009, and it breaks my heart to say we will probably never get this opportunity again.