Amazing Friends
I have the kind of friends and family that most people would kill for. A year ago, I made my husband, Scott, swear that we would let me 40th birthday this year go by completely unannounced. He must have had his fingers crossed, because last night about 60 people descended on my home to give me the most amazing surprise birthday I could have imagined. I am getting teary just thinking about how humbling it was to have so many people come out to celebrate with me. And the gift they gave me totally took my breath away. These people, all of whom have given and sacrificed far more than Scott and I have for Community 4:12, CCC, and the world, gave Scott and I an all expense paid weekend in Chicago--hotel, meals, a show. And many of these same people just 3 years ago came in and gave our home a total make-over when Scott had been out of work getting his teaching degree so he could come work in East 
Aurora. It is times like this when you just have to swallow your pride and know there is just absolutely no way you can adequately thank or ever come close to reciprocating the gift you have been given . . . kind of like Christ's gift. They all know that being the center of attention is about my least favorite thing in the world, but how could I not love every minute of being with the people that make life worth living for. I love you guys and wish I could throw a similar "love fest" for each and every one of you! Thank you!
Oh, and after everyone left and I sat crying through all the "love letters" they wrote me and got to my son Erik's card, I just burst out laughing. He wrote,"Happy 40th! I hope you have the best birthday ever! Love, Erik. PS--Be grateful for your brown hair. It'll soon be gray!" Next time I have to give a speech, I know who I am going to to help bring some comic relief! I love that kid.
Happy Birthday (a little late)
Posted by: Janus | Thursday, June 19, 2008 at 06:48 PM
No way are you 40! Congratulations, hope I look as good as you do when I turn 40.
The best is yet to come, I just know it!
Posted by: Shelley | Monday, May 19, 2008 at 05:20 PM
Happy Birthday, Kirsten!
Posted by: Tammy Melchien | Sunday, May 18, 2008 at 10:06 PM