Well, May, you were good to me. You were fast and fun, but you offered so many good moments that make me want to gather my people close. I feel like we’re in the thick of summer, thanks to a slower pace and less routine, but I want to pause and remember what May taught me.
In no particular order, here are Six Things I Learned in May …
1. Words really are my love language.
Greg gathered letters and cards from various friends (some he hasn’t even met!) for my birthday and put them together on a blessing board, which also included notes from him and big kids. I really loved it – like I loved having friends from all our circles of life at our wedding. That merging of memories and sweet encouragement fills me up so much.
2. Wyler’s Italian Ice popsicles are delicious.
I impulsively bought them at Sam’s last time I was there, and I’m glad I did because I want to eat them two at a time.
3. Having a pool in our yard is wonderful.
I mean, I didn’t need convincing this would be true, but now that we’ve been swimming in it for a few weeks I can say that with confidence. And we’ve still got the majority of summer to go!
4. Getting away for a good cause is worthwhile.
The annual conference Christian Alliance for Orphans hosted in Brentwood, TN earlier this month was good for my momma heart. I asked Greg to go with me and some Hope That Binds friends for my birthday because it was the two days after my birthday just two hours away. So we went, and I came home so encouraged by all the people and organizations who are investing in adoption, orphan care globally, and foster care. I took pages of notes and came home with ideas.
5. May really is my favorite.
Yes, May is crazy with the end-of-school programs and parties, but it’s also my birthday, my oldest’s birthday, Mother’s Day, the beginning of days that feel like summer, days are lighter longer, and when a break in the routine comes. Plus it ends with a holiday weekend.
With that, I also learned it’s okay to delay a birthday party two weeks after the actual birthdate. Cate wanted a pool party, so we waited two weeks after she officially turned 10 because we wanted warmer weather. It worked out well.
And all of that makes me very happy.
6. Porches don’t have to be perfect to welcome people.
The deck renovation project that began in April has continued well into May – and we’ve had a family baby shower, a birthday party, and an adoptive mom lunch. We’ve used a door we don’t usually use. We’ve had construction-related scraps and dirt piles.
And nobody has cared. I was reminded hospitality isn’t determined by the state of our house or porch or outfit but by the intention of our invitations.
{Have you joined my virtual porch community yet?}
Of course, I’ll be glad when the project is finished.
So, how was your May?
*****
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My May has been fast and furious like yours. I’m still a little dazed by it all, but we’re beginning June with a wedding, so how can that be bad, right? Boy #2 is marrying the love of his young life, and we’re going to be partying with all the people we love, so I’m thankful down to my toes. And I’m missing the little brown -eyed boy that he was, even though he’s 21 and soooo ready for this next step.
What a fun celebration that will be, Michele! I love how weddings bring people together. I’m glad you’re here!
Hey fellow list lover! Yours is great – and that addition is going to be glorious. Be patient, my young friend!!! xo
List lovers unite! I enjoyed reading your post this morning too. xo
Love your list and your pictures. Enjoy the rest of summer with a Popsicle by your pool.
That sounds perfect. Hope you have a great summer too, Erin!
Your porch already looks amazing! And your pool so inviting. Glad you are enjoying them both!
May has been a busy month with my two daughters birthdays and mothers day as well as other events and my son’s birthday is next week!
May is my favorite month also. I just love all the blooms coming out and the warm sunshine, finally! : )
Yes, May is just so welcoming for those of us who love the summer sunshine! Sounds like y’all had a busy but good month too. Thanks for being here, Cathy!
It sounds like you’ve had a lovely May! The pool must be wonderful to have right in your own backyard! No schlepping stuff back and forth! Find time for a night swim just for you!
It’s been amazing and is a huge part of why I’m looking forward to June & July. 🙂 I’ve been enjoying sitting outside while my youngest naps.
May is a beast, but boy has it flown by. We still have 12 days of school, filled with all the year ends and then our son’s 8th grade promotion. So I see busyness and tears in my future. But all good. Thanks for sharing some of your summer with us, it makes me even more eager to start mine. xo
I’m excited to see and read peeks into your summer. I’m sure it’s going to be delightful!
Since I now know words are your love language….thanks for consistently offering a welcoming spot for other bloggers to visit and share. I appreciate you!
Thank you, sweet Sarah!
Yes! #2-Wyler’s Italian Ice popsicles! We are on our 2nd box, and when I looked for them today at Sam’s, I couldn’t find them anywhere.
I initially bought them at Sam’s too! They’re on my list when I go back … I hope I can find them again! Thanks for being here, Laura!
Words! As a love language, yes!!! I LOVE what your husband did for you. That is truly special. <3
It was such a sweet surprise! Glad to see your pretty face here today, Mandy! xo