Parachutes

How appropriate that in my last post I had mentioned parachutes.  Tonight, my parachutes in Phoenix were there to lift me up; maybe I should refer to them here-on-out as hot air balloons. 

For as long as I can remember, I have wanted a surprise party.  I used to beg for them, which I know defeats the purpose, but hey, who can blame a girl for trying.  For whatever reason, on the few occassions I was blessed to have a surprise party, I somehow managed to foil the plans.  Shame on me.  Even as a child I tended to be very aware of what was unwrapping around me.  I was a keen listener and an even better detective.

As an adult, I would plan my own "surprise" birthday parties.  I would make the food (with the help of my family), buy the drinks, and invite everyone I knew.  I always made sure to preface the invitation with, "Shhh.  Don't tell me, it's a surprise." and then proceed to give the details of the celebration. 

Tonight, Sherlock Holmes was put in her place.  Little did I know that an innocent acception to a dinner party of three would turn into a menu-hiding-the-smirk-over-your-face type of night.  I think at one point I actually turned around to make sure there wasn't someone behind me. 

Once I finally had my wits about me, I looked around, and down, and squinted to see everyone who was there.  Little by little, as the surprise revealed itself to me, I could feel my heart welling with love.  They. Are. All. Here. For. Me.  In the middle of summer break and a month before my birthday to boot. 

Looking back, how could I have ever questioned the depth of love that God has for me?  I have been humbled once again.  He shows Himself to me everyday.  He is in the smiling faces of my children, the unflinching loyalty of my husband, and the love and devotion of my family and friends. 

I know it may seem silly to some, but I am beyond blessed.  There are no words, just that I love you all "too much".