Life Lately- Community

June Edition

A Crazy Idea

Last year, a few neighbors had a crazy idea:

“What if we built a float for the Wheaton 4th of July Parade?”

What followed was far more fun than any of us expected.

Sure, there was a float. There were t-shirts, decorations, candy, and enough group texts to keep everyone’s phones buzzing for weeks. We even had a giveaway after the parade to cover the entry fee for another group in hopes of having more neighborhoods join us this year.

But what surprised me most wasn’t the parade itself.

It was everything leading up to it.

The Best Part

The candy-packing day ended up being one of my favorite parts of the entire experience.

We knew walking in the parade would be fun. We didn’t realize how much gathering together beforehand would build anticipation, create memories, and bring people closer together.

A Different Season

This year looks a little different.

Families have grown. Some neighbors have moved. Others are navigating new seasons of life. But despite all the changes, we’re doing it again because what we’re building is about so much more than a float.

It’s about community.

It’s about creating opportunities to know our neighbors better, laugh together, work together, and create memories together.

It’s about creating space for people.

And yes… if we’re being honest, it’s also about defending our title as Carlson’s Best in Show. : )

Final Thoughts

More than anything, though, I hope this serves as a reminder to slow down and look around.

Who is already in your life? Who lives down the street, sits across the office, or shows up in the same places you do every week? Who could you invite into an adventure?

Community rarely happens by accident. More often, it starts with a simple invitation.

And sometimes… that invitation turns into a parade float.

Much Love,

A few little snapshots from Life Lately…

1. BOTH RWP Teams at the same location!
2. Lots of ice cream adventures. Toss up between DQ or Andy’s.
3. Greenhouse is down! Plants are POPPIN’!
4. Last minute Forrest Frank concert with Blake. 10/10 recommend!
5. Construction on this years parade float is happening!
6. More walks to the Market before wedding days. : )