It's good for the soul to escape. Travel down Texas backroads, cellphone service-free. One of my very favorite families, The Guthries, graciously gave me the opportunity for just that this weekend. StephGuth turned 25 (whoa. old.) and we gathered around to celebrate the fullness of life she brings to ours. Nothing fancy. Just sunshine, boat rides, good food and some horseshoes.
People should be celebrated. Hard. In as many ways possible, be they simple or extravagant. Everyone wants to know their life brings value, contributes to others. And I'd drive down all of Texas's backroads to make sure this girl knows that she does indeed add value.
I've known this vivacious spirit since I was a broken 18 year old searching for real life community and friends. After growing to understand each other's personalities, we became inseparable. This one right here has a heart after the Father and others. She's a fellow writer, mad networker and most importantly we both inexplicably love the game of golf and the PGA. She has that innate ability to bring you into her family as if you were blood, always. She's forgiving, kind and fun. Lots of fun. She's a fighter with deep integrity. And she's a forever friend.
We've created a lot of memories around views like this over the last 7 years. Shared our dreams, plans, secrets about boys. I treasure those memories and they're special to our friendship. After creating more over the last 2 days my heart is full. Sweet Guthries thank you for always including me and loving on me so well. Here's to you StephGuth and to many more birthdays celebrated lakeside.