Community Celebration

In a mere seven weeks, David and I will have a celebration of a lifetime. He will turn 35 and have just walked across the stage at Louisiana Tech with his Masters Degree in Professional Accountancy. Wow. I knew from the first day we moved into our little house on Locust Street that when the day came (because I KNEW it would) we were going to celebrate. And by celebrate, I didn't mean just a quiet dinner and a movie. :) 

If you have read a single post in the past four years, then you know that I came over here kicking and screaming. Through the last four years I have matured in ways I never thought possible. I am still Anna, but I would like to think a little better, with a greater perspective on life, and grip on reality. While it was NOT my heart's desire to live in this state, I have grown to really appreciate Louisiana, and adore my husband.

In January I really started to think about David's party. It was only 8 months away! For as much time and effort I have put into just thinking about his party, you would think I am getting married again. Thank God, I am not. (One wedding is enough, thank you). 

As I started to dream, I began to quickly get overwhelmed with all that there was to do and how much it was all going to cost to really pull this thing off right! All I could do was pray. While living in Arcadia was not my heart's desire, throwing a party to celebrate the accomplishments of my husband - ABSOLUTELY - was my heart's desire! So, I just clung to the scripture: "Take delight in the LORD, and he will give you your heart's desires." Psalms 37:4. 

My first dilemma was finding a venue. David wanted to have the party in Arcadia, and not only did we have limited venue options, but we were also on a budget. Alas, the doors opened to have his party at the Depot downtown. This location pretty much sums up the past, present & future of Arcadia. It couldn't be better.

Next on the list was a food menu, decorations, music, & invitations. Seriously, didn't I mention it seemed like we are planning a wedding - I wasn't kidding. 

This is the part that continues to just flabbergast me every time I think about it! EVERY time I came up with something else we needed to make David's party a success, someone in the community would just happen to offer their services for the exact thing. IT HAS BEEN UNBELIEVABLE. We have several people in north Louisiana helping us with food, decorations, music AND invitations!!!! Isn't it amazing how when you obey God's plan for your life He completely sees everything through?!?! We will not only have the party of a lifetime for David, but the party has become something of a community event, and above any expectations I originally had!

Two scriptures that come to mind are: "Now all glory to God, who is able, through his mighty power at work within us, to accomplish infinitely more than we might ask or think." Ephesians 3:20 and "And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus." Phil 4:19

If you are coming to this party, please know when you walk in that it took an entire community of people that have loved and supported David and me the past four years to make this event a success!!! And believe me, when God shows up too, it is FOR REAL!!!! We can't wait to celebrate and have an incredible time with those that we love the most in our life!  If you are not able to make it, please know we will miss you!

THANK YOU to every single person that is helping contribute. You have no idea what kind of impact that you have made on David and me. As much as I still don't like Arcadia, because of people like you, you have made this journey (dare I say) enjoyable and well worth the tedious steps to finish. Thank you again for everything. We absolutely love you and appreciate each one of you that have helped us make this party a complete success.  

Now, hurry up August 15!! We are all ready to party! :) 

Hugs, 
Anna