It’s Thanksgiving Not Truth Day!

HAPPY DAY AFTER THANKSGIVING!!! 

Wow. What a year it has been. It was just four months ago when I met my precious team for the very first time. They named themselves Authentic Love, and man did they nail it.

Sunday will be our last day as a team together, and I want to take a hot second to stop and “give thanks” to the ONE that ordained our meeting from the very beginning. The Lord knew exactly what I needed when He allowed me the privilege of living life with these six incredible people. What did I need?! Ahhh, I’m so glad you asked…

1.) Nathan

mmmmkkk, you think you know who Nathan is? You think you know guys like him? I guarantee you don’t. This guy is a walking contradiction in the best way. I didn’t have brothers growing up so I tend to put all men in the same box, but this guy just wouldn’t fit! He is the best combination of Aragorn meets Willy Wonka. Don’t let his love for flowers and chick flicks fool you, if I’m ever selected to participate in Survivor, I’m calling this guy. His steady, strong presence has been such a blessing to me and I love that I never know what to expect with him, whether serious talks, notes of encouragement, or the best chicken EVAAAA. 

2.) Maryah

Want to meet the coolest person in the world? This girl is legit. She is rock solid and although slow to speak, she’s got a lot to say, so when she does speak up YOU BETTER LISTEN. When I need someone deeply rooted in truth I know who I’m going to. I love her sassy comments and quick wit, she may be small but she is FIERCE. Once you gain her trust, her loyalty should be guarded at all cost. Anyone who has the right to call her friend is blessed beyond all measure. She’s an absolute beast at spoons, and when you really get her laughing, it’s the most joyful sound in the world.

3.) Meghan

Oh my beautiful Megs. She’s been to hell and back this year and she is fighting tooth and nail to further God’s kingdom. In such a short time, she has emerged as a ferocious warrior fighting for her friends, her Lord and herself. I love watching her take on the enemy point blank and shutting his schemes down at every corner. Since she has my exact personality type (INFP) she has provided a ton of insight on how to actually process things instead of compartmentalizing. She can recognize all my obscure movie quotes and has a special knack for belting out any disney song. Her friendship is an incredible gift and she is always shocking me with the way she relentlessly loves people. 

4.) Brittani

You know the kind of friend you instantly connect with? One you can make faces with across the room and not need to speak a word to know what you’re both thinking? That’s Britt. She’s a leader by nature and I have loved watching her learn just how much influence she carries with the people around her. Her stunning beauty increases with each passing day as I see more of her vulnerability and her heart for people. She can make me feel loved instantly, and I cherish every single moment with her, talking, crying, watching movies, dancing, cooking, ALL THE THINGS.

 5.) Hakeem

A typical phrase Hakeem will say is “know my heart”, and let me tell you- it’s pure gold. This guy just wants to serve. All the time. In any way he can, (even if you don’t want him too.) I’ve never seen a more protective, gentle, kind-hearted person. He got a surprising look into the world of women living with the five of us gals, but let me tell you, as much as He’s learned, I’ve learned double from him. He has spoiled us, respected us, and patiently received all of our jokes (at his expense). He’s going to make a great dad to a bunch of little princesses some day.

 6.) Samantha

I’ve never met a more sacrificial person than my dear Sam. You want ice cream? Let me go to the store and get some for you. You like my dress? Here take it! You need to use the bathroom? I can wait….. all of these are actual comments she makes countless times throughout the day to anyone she comes in contact with. Getting her to laugh is really easy and so rewarding. One of the sweetest, most honest women I’ve ever met. Truly a ballerina at heart, she is full of grace, dignity and is stunning to behold as she dances for the Lord in everything she does.

Although the sun is setting on my beloved team, I am praising God for the time we’ve shared together. Through Paris, Spain, Morocco and Cyprus. Through celebration and trials, lessons and fun, death and new life. I have been changed forever by their boldness, generosity, kindness, patience, joy, gentleness, “holy-spirit” leading, and above all else their…

AUTHENTIC LOVE.

What are you thankful for this year? Leave a comment below, and Happy Thanksgiving ya’ll!!

Colossians 3:15-17-“And let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts, to which indeed you were called in one body. And be thankful. Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God. And whatever you do, in word or deed, do everything in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through him.”