Sunshine, Sisters, and Birthdays

So I'm sitting outside on a chaise lounge catching some rays. I'm SO glad it's warm and sunny. I really like lots of things about winter and cold weather, but this year, I'm more excited about warm weather and summer than I've ever been. The forecast for this week shows that we've got lots of sun coming down the pike. Woohoo!
I think the sunshine feels even more refreshing since this winter has been darker than most due to the unexpected loss of my sister, Lauren, in November. The sun gives me the opportunity to get out of my house and just be a part of something bigger than even my hurt - God's creation and expression of His love.
Lauren's birthday would have been tomorrow. She would have been 29 years old. I'm really not even used to using the phrase "would have been" in relation to her, but that phrase is only for the temporary life remaining here. All of her "would have beens" have become "been there and done so much more than thats" in heaven. As I think about her birthday, I've been sad sure, but I've also been curious. Which birthday do you celebrate in heaven - the one when you were born or the one when you were born again? OR maybe everyday is like a birthday which Lauren would LOVE since she made her birthday at least a week long event. The longer she could drag it out the better. I think she got that from my Maw Maw Bobbie who even when dying from lung cancer managed to hold on for one more birthday, her 73rd, and join Jesus the very next day. Maybe it's genetic!
Today, my parent's church began an offering in Lauren's name after their pastor heard about the Dollar Club at Southland from my mom. The day Lauren passed away, my parents were waiting to board a flight here and their pastor came out to see them off. My mom had been wanting to tell him about the Dollar Club because their church is all about getting outside the walls and really serving people - being Jesus. He was so floored that even in the midst of such tragedy and deep loss, my mom would still be thinking of the kingdom and others. I'm so grateful for my spiritual legacy in both my parents. So today it began. Who knows how many will be blessed? How many more than if she had lived? There is always purpose in pain when you're life is in Christ. If you don't believe me, try losing someone, grieving, and surviving with your sanity without Him.
Well, I suppose I should practice a couple of songs for 608 tonight. Haven't sung there in a while and I'm pumped. That's a room that fills my cup! Enjoy the sun!