Stephen returned from New Orleans today, a day which is also Dad’s birthday. Par-tay. Of course, we rewatched The Office and heard once more what is now my mantra: Lord, beer me strength.

My little brother, the man child, came home with a tan and facial hair and a voice that I swear dropped a few octaves.

He also came back with stories and a heart that has been set afire for serving people. I love this kid.

I told him we’d have to watch Idol Gives Back together, both for the footage of NOLA and of Africa, where we’d like to go together in a year or two. And if we watch it, there’s a very good chance that I’ll cry. Again.

I should be stretched thin more often. It makes me so much more emotionally accessible.