Twenty Five

In the last hours of my 25th birthday, I wanted to share some thoughts and reflections.  I like lists, and it just seemed fitting to write 25 things.  So here it is, 25 things - a collection of lessons learned, experiences to remember, & words that have stuck to my heart.

1. There is something or someone worth celebrating every day.  You don't have to wait for a holiday or a party to embrace joy and celebration.


2. Travel awakens parts of your being that you didn't even know existed.  I travel, in part, for the ways in which it changes me.

3. Take time to burn the candles.

4. When you think I should really call/text/email {insert name here}, you really should.

5.  Sometimes the best thing you can do for someone is to just be there....and fight the urge to fill the silence with a lot of words.


6. Always practice gratitude.  Say "thank you" every chance you get.

7. For me, being in the kitchen, trying new recipes, and making food for people is both empowering and fulfilling.  It takes time, but it is time well-spent.

8. Star gaze.  It's a big world out there, and gazing up into the sky tends to put things in perspective.

9.  Don't be afraid to pack up your car and hit the road.  The two long solo road trips I have taken in the past couple years have been some of the best experiences of my life.  The silence is rejuvenating.

10. Play, laugh, hold, tickle, kiss the kids in your life.

11. Fill your home with things that have meaning and bring you joy.  Don't buy stuff just to have more stuff.  Create spaces that make people want to stay.

12. Invite God into every part of your life.  Even if you don't feel ready.

13. Coffee.  Smell it, savor it, and share with friends.

14. Don't dismiss things that scare you.  Take time to discern whether it may be God inviting you on a new adventure.

15. Read a good book every now and then.  Underline, highlight, write in the margins.  Share with friends.

16. It's always a good time to pray.  In the car.  In the shower.  In the middle of the night.  God's up, and ready to listen.

17. Practice being still and being quiet.  Ask God to speak, and be ready to listen.

18. Write cards, and send mail.  Real mail.  With stamps.  Sure fire way to put a smile on someone's face.

19. Take time to listen to the wisdom of those in your life.  God often speaks through your community.

20. Don't be afraid to let something go for the fear of never getting it back.


21. Share your story.  The good, the bad, the ugly.  You never know who needs to hear it, or how God will use it to touch someone else.

22. Cherish your friends.  Make an effort to invest in their lives, and to both rejoice and mourn alongside of them.

23. Siblings are one of God's greatest gifts.

24. Security is not the same as peace.  Seek to discern between the two.

25. Don't underestimate the power of doing small things with great love.