{God-sized Dreams} Celebrating life

Just across the state line in Tennessee on my mother-in-law's farm, we celebrated my husband's 35th birthday with four-wheeler rides and fishing. Those are the manly equivalent to party games, you know. We invited our dearest friends, soaked up the beautiful spring day, ate delicious food, caught up with stories and laughter. You know, we were doing what my husband wanted to do. I didn't touch a fishing pole or sit on the four-wheeler, but it was a fabulous day that included so many people and moments I love.

Yes, please notice the boots. They are the snake-proof boots Greg requested. I think he's been watching a tad too much "Duck Dynasty," but he was so proud of himself for traipsing into a pond and coming out dry. Apparently this birthday party venue is going to become tradition, so they'll get at least annual use. And, really, I love that we're establishing traditions for adult birthdays in our 30s.

This electric truck made its way out for the party. These cousins filled its bed for the first drive around the farm, but they made plenty of room for friends later in the afternoon.

Yes, I realize I need to worry when he's 16. It took him about 3 minutes to figure out how to move the lever to the faster of the two forward speeds. I've mentioned Ben is all boy. He's rough and messy and loud and always on the move. The Farm was a good place for him to run free, collect sticks, be introduced to Dodge Ball, eat where the birds would clean up his crumbs, and chase his friends. Seeing my boy in his element makes me understand him more. 

Y'all. We have the best friends a family could have. Hands down. These are the people who know my weaknesses, hear about my hard days, help me in ordinary moments, and make me laugh the hardest on the best of days.

And she's one of the very best. Jaclyn and I have been through so many seasons of life since we were single girls in college. And, you know, sometimes it's really nice to just sit on a porch together. 

Speaking of sitting on the porch, that's where I was before our friends arrived when my kids were playing on the swing set and with sticks and Greg was testing the fishin' waters. And I read almost half of "Sparkly Green Earrings" by Melanie Shankle {aka Big Mama}. Then I finished the book the next day. Yes, reading a book in two days in this season of life means I couldn't put it down and I recommend it to you, fellow mommas. It's about becoming a momma and being a momma. Sometimes putting this job into words is impossible, but this book does it with funny, heart-warming stories.

Cate and our friend Chloe planned some singing and dancing program. None of us watching really have any idea what it was about, but seeing these two first-born girls bond over public silliness makes me, the once-so-very-shy girl, smile so big.

So, yes, my husband had a fabulous 35th birthday party. But the day was also oh-so good for my soul, which had felt tired and weary. And then I remembered that's what sharing life is really all about. 
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For this week's God-sized Dreams post, Holley Gerth asked us to take time to play. I'm linking this post along with many, many other dreamers on Holley's blog. You'll find encouragement, truth and community there. 

I'm also linking up with Soli Deo Gloria at Finding Heaven Today.

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