Culturally Irrelevant

Jack turned 4 years old today, and I’m so proud of him: a kind and protective big brother who has a sensitive heart, loves his mommy and daddy, loves God and plays hard. We had a fun birthday party yesterday, complete with visit to Tulsa’s fire station 32, swimming in the backyard, a fire truck cake made custom by our very own “LB” Pomeroy, and lots of fun with friends and family. I think the best part of my day today will be going home and having a nerf gun fight all over the house and backyard. Katy, you did an amazing job making Jack’s birthday a special memory he will never forget.

And speaking of Katy, today is also our 8th anniversary. Katy Jo, when I look at you I still can’t believe God has blessed my life this much. You are  a Proverbs 31 woman. It’s hard to keep up with you sometimes, which I didn’t see coming, but when I look at how you nurture and care for the people and the relationships around us and the life that is springing up, I’m just blown away. You’ve held my feet to the path of love and kindness for so many years when I’ve wanted to write people off, give up or get frustrated. I can see the fruit of love coming up in you, and I know your Dad is just smiling, so proud of his little girl who has truly found the Father’s heart. I think he would say it’s worth it because of this.

And by the way, I know you don’t like this photo, but it means something to me. I could have caught you on a day when you were prepared for the camera, but when I see the mower and tools in the background with you sitting in the barber chair, all I can think of is hundreds of free haircuts, callouses you’ve gotten (and not just in our yard) and all the ways you pour your life out from 5am to midnight on most days to honor and celebrate people, serve the Master and sit at his feet. You couldn’t be more attractive than you are right there. Period.