A Time to Celebrate!

I sat in the circle of 30 or more of my closest friends, sporting black biker shorts, pink shorts and a black and pink top (hello, early 90s fashion!).  Reaching for the next gift to open, I wondered if anyone noticed my fancy hair or new lip gloss.  A friend had put it up in two French braids that met at the nape of my neck and the lip gloss had been a gift, too.  The box was small and wrapped with store paper, a gold sticker held it in place.  In the box, a small felt pocket held a dainty ID bracelet with my name on one side and the names of two of my closest friends on the other.  It was my 13^th birthday. 

My parents had graciously opened their home.  My Dad spent hours crafting a neighborhood scavenger hunt that kept us running from house to house and through the park.  Mom’s famous strawberry cake, eaten on the patio, topped off the evening.

I don’t know what it is about certain celebrations that sear themselves into our memories.  Perhaps the thoughtfulness of others, perhaps the feeling of the moment, or perhaps it is perhaps it is the feeling of elation, but I know this feeling to be true.

This week I turned 43!  Is it really possible the story from above happened thirty years ago?!

Like the last few weeks, Ecclesiastes 3 continues to echo through my mind.  A time for everything – laughing, dancing, embracing, finding satisfaction.  I pray you find a way to celebrate soon.  Celebrate big! Celebrate small.  Celebrate people close to your heart or fake holidays.  But lift your head to celebrate! 

43 Ways to Celebrate!

1. A sweet treat
2. A special drink
3. Stretch
4. Take a Walk
5. High Five someone close by
6. Hug someone you love
7. Yell “woohoo!” a little too loud
8. Change scenery
9. Call a friend and tell them the good news
10. Take note! Jot it down to remember.
11. Watch something funny
12. Buy yourself flowers
13.  Take a nap
14. Read something on your TBR
15. Go out to dinner
16. Dance
17. Put your arms up in a ‘V’ for victory and say it loud and proud for all to hear!
18. Fist pump
19. Pop firecrackers
20. Use sprinkles
21. Blow a paper party horn
22. Use fancy themed napkins and plates
23. Send a note of thanks to those that helped you succeed
24. Host a party
25. Take a picture of your accomplishment
26. Throw confetti
27. Worship God for His Goodness and great gifts
28. Take a trip
29. Schedule a self-care splurge
30. Pet a furry, four-legged friend
31. Sit in the sun
32. Buy a little something you’ve had your eye on for a while
33. Salty treat
34. Color a picture
35. Sing along loudly to “We are the Champions,” “Best Day of My Life,” or “Simply the Best.” (or something similar)
36. Blow up balloons or send a balloon bouquet
37. Give a standing ovation, even if you’re the only one and you’re giving it for yourself
38. Give away party favors (or host a giveaway!)
39. Decorate your area
40. Take a quiet minute to notice what you haven’t noticed while you’ve been working
41. Drive-by and honk and wave
42. Get all the way dressed (Friends, you know what I mean! Shed the yoga pants and the tinted moisturizer and get dressed!)
43. Use that special thing, like a delicious-smelling candle, beautiful stationary or find china you’ve been saving!

What about you? How do you celebrate? I’d love to know so I can incorporate it into year forty-four!!

Hugs and Blessings – Bethany