Today’s my birthday.
{So I accept all things sweet, spontaneous fun, and some queso on side}
But really, it’s my birthday as I right this. I’m on a bus riding into my 7th month on the Race in my world race uniform: tshirt,shorts, hair up in a bun, and my Chuck Taylor’s on.
{it’s a great day}
This isn’t just another birthday in my 20s, it’s the last one. I’m 29 today, and I’m sitting here on an Intercape bus line teary eyed because I’m just so freaking thankful for all I’ve walked through. Today I am rejoicing for what the Lord has done, and all that He didn’t do on my behalf {can I get an Amen?}
So as I wipe away more tears, I want to give you 29 reasons I’m SO FREAKIN’ thankful!
1. I’m so thankful the Lord didn’t call me to be ordinary- I’m so happy I have an adventurous & spontaneous heart.
2. I’m so thankful I’ve been given a family who loves me. I can’t imagine doing life without support from humans that are stuck with me for life!
3. I’m so thankful I am writing this list from a bus in Africa!! The Lords plans are the best!
4. I’m so thankful I get to be an Aunt- it really is the best thing in the world. I didn’t know it was humanly possible to love little people so much. Jathen, Noah, Eden, Lily, Hank, & the future #6 have made me realize what’s important. I pray you believe how much the Lord has planned for you, and you don’t hesitate to be brave and different for Him. He’s got huge plans for you, and I hope I can encourage you to always pursue His best.
5. I’m so thankful for you Mom & Dad. You don’t realize the different ways you show love to me. You’re my biggest cheerleaders- thanks for always being there, no matter the outcome.
6. I’m so thankful I get to travel and see the world- ITS THE BEST EVER!!
7. I’m so thankful I’ve messed up, and been able to see redemption in a whole new way.
8. I’m so thankful the Lord calls us out of ordinary situations and shows us how much more to life there is.
9. I’m so thankful for a Heavenly Father who doesn’t quit on me- He’s a patient one.
10. I’m so thankful my struggles aren’t permanent- the Lord has brought up these one by one and walked me through victory.
11. I’m so thankful I am seeing how the Lord can use my passions and desires for His kingdom- I’m pumped to see what 2017 has ….. Omg I’m so EXCITED!
12. I’m so thankful for community here on the Race, and back home. You don’t realize how much you have challenged me to be Me. I’m here because you’ve spoken life and truth into me, when I normally don’t believe in myself.
13. I’m so thankful for friendship! I have the best friends I could ask for! Thank you for putting up with me, being my adventure buddies, and loving me from a thousand miles away!
14. I’m so thankful for my financial supporters that made this year possible. Yes I’ve thanked you, but I don’t think you realize that your support has changed my life. The Lord has done more in these last couple months, than in years past. You made that possible.. And I pray the Lord reminds you of your faithfulness to the Kingdom today!
15. I’m so thankful I’m not married- or I wouldn’t be traveling this year {amen?!}
16. I’m so thankful I’m not sitting at a desk today from 8-5. I feel like for the first time on my bday I’m right where I’m supposed to be.
17. I’m so thankful I signed up for th Race! I can’t imagine my life without the last 6 months in it. Sign up people: www.theworldrace.org
18. I’m so thankful I did something that terrified me, and pushed me way outside my comfort zone. Look what came of it?
19. I’m so thankful the Lord made me who I am, I’m enjoying Me more everyday!
20. I’m so thankful I knew a life where I thought I knew best, and not the Lord. If I hadn’t had that time, I would still be taking my relationship with Him for granted. {amen for regrets, mess ups, and living for myself}
21. I’m so thankful I’m finishing my 20’s in a way that sets the tone for the rest of my life. This is the life I want to live, and this is just the start!
22. I’m so thankful for my people at Acxiom- you constantly made me realize my strengths and passions {You reminded me of them daily} Without that reminder, I might not have had the guts to choose another path! Thank you! I miss days hanging with you!
23. I’m so thankful for my church family! Conways First & FBC Cherokee Village, I miss you! Thank you for supporting me and continuing to pray for me across the world- I miss Sunday & Wednesday nights with you!
24. I’m so thankful I am learning who I am- i was lost in who I was just a year ago. Praise the Lord for showing me how He made me!
25. I’m so thankful for the unknown future. {clap it up for having no idea what’s next}
26. I’m so thankful I did something that was terrified me- I’m not leaving this year unchanged. I like Anna today, I’m so glad me a year ago wasn’t cutting it.
27. I’m so thankful I’m one-of-a-kind and learning how much I am needed in this world.
28. I’m so thankful for my siblings + spouses. You’ve seen me for what I can be, not what I am. Thank you for always pushing me and reminding me of what I can do! Wish you could be here with me today!
29. I’m so thankful I’m happy to be 29 and on this adventure. Here’s to starting another year across the world; with new foods, cultures, & becoming more of what the Lord’s called me to be.
In true World Race fashion, I’m hopping off a bus, and getting into a taxi to sleep on my sleeping pad for the night. Enjoy your beds tonight ‘Merica. Be thankful.
