Last night I had the pleasure of eating Pad Thai with some friends to celebrate a birthday. Thank God for good friends, good conversation, good food, good drinks, and good Pulitzer Prize winning authors to listen to post-dinner. It was a refreshing night. Happy Birthday Scott!

I also had the pleasure of running into an old student at the lecture. He is a freshman in college, and that sure made me feel old. But he is a sweetheart, and he even told me that he was enjoying reading Home. He was a good and happy kid, and it was exciting to see that he still is.

I also felt old when I couldn't remember my age. Really. I told my hosts that I was turning 25. And I didn't feel too confident in that statement as I said it, but I couldn't remember being 25. This past year has whizzed by, and I think I took it for granted. (Thankfully Lynda knew better and corrected me.)

After last night, then talking to my principal about next year, understanding God's will, this community, then coming home and cleaning, and then talking to another good friend about Wendell Berry novels and poetry, I just feel the hope continuing to rise, and I am excited. So excited, in fact, that I think I will have a hard time sleeping.

ps. Have you noticed how long the days are getting?! Hallelujah!