The Best Thing That's Happened This Year

 April 1 -The Best Thing That's Happened This Year

The best thing that has happened so far this year has been Brian's surprise 60th birthday party. I'll start off up front with the confession that I am terrible at parties and I am terrible with crowds. My husband is fabulous with both of those things and I knew he would love an event like what we ended up throwing for him. So I dove into the planning! 

My next confession would be that I hate lying. And there's no way to plan a surprise party for someone you spend nearly every minute of everyday with without lying. A lot. But guess what? Apparently, while I hate it, I'm pretty good at it! 🤣

It ended up being such a joy to pull together folks that have impacted and been impacted by Brian's six decades of life. Seeing so many of these people together in one place at one time, to hear their words of joy and encouragement, their laughter as we recalled so many funny memories together --

What. A. Joy. ❤️

These people have stood with us through all manner of joy and hardship, tough times and easy, flourishing and wilderness. I was reminded, once again, that God never intended us to live this life alone. He means for us to thrive in community. And the community we have been blessed with all along the way -- it has morphed, sure, but so many have stayed the course with us. And it is absolutely life giving. 

Life is often hard, but hang on to your people. 

Even if you're as bad at it as I am, make up reasons to have a party with the people you love. Hug them. Share good food and drink. Tell them how much they mean to you, and be specific. Tell them you love them. Loud and often. Make it weird.

We may not get out of here alive, and some seasons are unspeakably difficult, but we do not have to be here alone. For this, I am grateful.