The 26th year.

Last year was one of the first big ones of adult life, 25. Twenty- five is the year that you get to check a new box. You know, when you fill out forms at church, random surveys or other items that force you to fit in some box labeled 18-24, 25-29, 30-39 etc. As a young girl it was the magic year I always hoped to reach. I thought back then that I would have it all figured out by 25. Complete with a fabulous career, husband, house, kids, dog and set on a path of success. Well, I am on a path of success but it doesn't look anything like the notions I conjured as a young naive girl. I don't have a husband, house or kids but I am on my way to a fabulous career and I have a dog. Two out of 5 can't be that bad, right? My 25Th year actually shaped up to be quite a year full of events such as internships, concerts with friends, graduation, new found community, fantastic opportunities through Baylor, renewed sense of family and so much more. While at first the 25Th year seemed daunting as if I was lacking in something on the culturally imposed timeline of life, it was actually quite lovely.

The 26Th year is looking more promising than ever and I am excited to see what God has in store. This birthday was like none other I have ever celebrated. Beyond the obvious fact that I am living in Hawaii, the whole day was rather unique including a spontaneous Happy Birthday serenade by kiddos outside of the local library. The day was also filled with many texts, voicemails and calls from home that warmed my heart. For the bulk of the day, myself along with the two other interns (Kelsey and Brianna) interviewed several of the locals here in Lanai. We got to sit and hear people "talk story" about days of old while graciously allowing us to enter into their world. It was a long day but one that I will treasure for many years to come.

After our work day was done, the girls surprised me with dinner on the beach. We picked up a pizza from one of the restaurants and hit the 440 with a sense of carefree urgency. We arrived just in time to see the sun slowly fade into the horizon. We laughed, took pictures, sang once again and talked about the year to come. It was simple and beautiful.

My hopes for the 26Th year are high, for it is a year that has the potential to be life changing. I don't know what the next 365 days are going to hold, but I know I want to be present for it. I don't want to be so worried about the next that I miss the here and now. I want to soak it all in.