Friday, November 20, 2015

You know what I've been reminded of this week? That life's too short to live in fear, that the years aren't slowing down anytime soon, and that there's something worth celebrating every day. This week's been full of lots and lots of celebrations. Call me mushy and nostalgic, but there is something I love so much about remembering people and commemorating the chapters of their lives. I've found that surprising and celebrating others is honestly more fun for me than being celebrated. And I've found that choosing to look for the best in each day while seeking to love others well brings a lot more purpose and joy into life. Here's what I'm celebrating:

1. A Cousin's Wedding (Plus Road Trip)

This past weekend Aaron and I escaped on a little road trip to Oklahoma City. We love road trippin' all over the US, as evidenced by our last two spring break trips to the Southeast and Southwest. We took a day off (which we NEVER do), drove down Friday morning, and spent the weekend exploring Bricktown, relaxing in some free hotel rooms, and celebrating love with the happy couple! I must be getting old, since I was legitimately sore from breaking it down on the dance floor all night with the fam. Side note: We also had the most wonderful Mexican food at Ted's Cafe' Escondido. If you're ever in Oklahoma, Lee's Summit, or Overland Park I'd highly recommend it. I'm also THRILLED that there's one coming to us in KC very soon!

2. An Engagement Anniversary

Tomorrow will be exactly THREE YEARS from the date that Aaron proposed. What? How does time go so quickly? I remember that day: full of bridesmaid dress shopping for my best friends' wedding, only to find out that I was getting engaged later that evening and they had known all day (and week). Oh boy do I love surprises, and this one was the best- not to mention the most beautiful ring that my now hubby somehow purchased while he was still in college and without a job. I should also add that Bo Lings is a pretty special place for us; we've only gone there together twice: our first date and the night of our engagement. Chinese for the win. If you haven't checked out the story of our proposal, it's beautiful and worth reading!

3. A Quarter of a Century

If you haven't heard yet, my wonderful husband turned 25 on Tuesday. Not only was it a ton of fun planning lots of surprises for him, but I knew that my words of affirmation guy would absolutely love the video that our friends and family secretly contributed to for him. I also had a great time writing him this letter in celebration. Here's the video if you want to take a peek (it's kind of long but he seriously loved every second). A Mexican dinner was the perfect end to a perfect day.

4. A Canned Food Drive

My Gifted Communication Arts kiddos are in charge of the food drive at school every year. We get donations and sponsorship from the community, then settle in for a week of boxes, cans, raffle prizes, and giving back to others. The drive ends today, but I was totally blown away earlier this week by the generosity of one sweet student: a preschooler at our learning center who told his mom through his tears that he wanted to donate his entire piggy bank to the cause because "Other people don't have food." What a sweetie with a thankful heart we can all learn from.

One more proposal picture: a reminder of how we can love others well this holiday season and every day.

5. A Chance to Slow Down and Give Thanks

With the craziness of this week (balancing school, the food drive, YoungLife, and more) I'm looking forward to a slow week next week. We've only got two days of school, followed by a five day weekend and a chance to spend time with loved ones. Lately, I've been constantly reminded of the importance to slow down and be thankful for all the blessings I've been given. I've been choosing to rest and invest more in what really matters, and I'm excited to share more about that next week.

I hope you all have a wonderful weekend full of celebrations, laughter, and sweet moments with those you love most.

Currently,

Kelsie