Cleveland rocks. And I’ve been able to rock with it over the past two weeks.
Lindsey and I caught up with The Dropkick Murphys (thanks, Woody) when they rolled through town to kick off their 20th Anniversary Tour. The frigid temps outside were no match for the energy they brought to town. It was an electricity that could only be rivaled by The Boss.
And that’s exactly what happened a few days later. This time, I found myself down at The Q, watching and listening to Bruce Springsteen belt out his ballads that have always captivated and invigorated me. A very special thanks to Hollister for making the night happen. Love ya!
Then there were some more rocks. Lindsey and AJ got engaged! Although it didn’t come as a huge surprise to everyone, it’s still a big deal. Their proposal was in a private setting, so AJ decided he wanted to do something much larger, and throw her a surprise party so she could celebrate among friends and family. And so he solicited me to help him with a few of the arrangements.
Last Friday night I headed out to surprise my sister and celebrate her big news. Needless to say, the surprise was on me as I rolled through the door and was greeted by the accompaniment of cheers, applause and noisemakers. Those same people had all gathered to throw me a surprise birthday bash!
My sister actually managed to put together and pull off a huge surprise. I really had no clue, which actually made the party that much more enjoyable. Thank you, Lindsey for a fabulous evening spent with friends and family!
Unfortunately, my wheelchair decided to zonk out on me as I was heading home afterwards. A busted motor has forced me to stay in bed this past week. It could be worse, though, at least it’s not 80° outside. The chair should be fixed by the end of the week. Just in time to welcome me into a new chapter of my life.
As I write this, I’m still in my 30s. By the time most of you have read this, I’ll be in my 40s. These past 10 years have certainly brought a lot of change with them.
I got engaged.
Laughed a lot.
Moved away, bought a house, started a job.
Got married.
Laughed some more.
Left a job, moved back home, started another job.
Dove into a lake.
Cried a lot.
Lost most of what I loved, and a lot of what I worked so hard for.
Cried some more.
Started over.
Cultivated new and wonderful relationships.
Founded an organization to make a difference in people’s lives.
Built a home.
Discovered the strength of the human spirit.
Laughed again.
By all accounts, I’d say it was a pretty remarkable decade. And I’m excited to see what’s next!
Thank you for all of the prayers and support!
Stand Strong!
Scott
Hi Scott, I get your communications thru my son, Isaac Matthews. I wish for you all good things in your 40’s decade and beyond.
Sincerely, Doc Matthews.
Happy Birthday, Scott! And congratulations to your sister, Lindsey. You have such a wonderful family. Blessings to you all!
A very happy birthday to you, Scott, and please tell Lindsay that I’m thrilled to hear her good news. Much love.
Happy birthday Scott and congratulations Lindsay
Very neat chronology of your last decade. Praying that next decade will bring much more laughter in you life
GOD BLESS YOU ON YOUR 40th BIRTHDAY.
CONGRATS TO LINDSEY.
Your writings , make our “old” peoples pain, seem not so bad!
Hi to Mom & Dad, I see them freq. walking the dog.
The Rahe’s
Happy Birthday with continued daily prayers. You’re an inspiration to many people!
hey scott, HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!!!! really the 40’s, Oh no, Nah!! all the same just some different challenges that help make life more interesting. you have some great family and friends, glad your having fun. Praying for You, God Bless
Hi Scott,
You certainly have been busy. Sounds like you had a wonderful birthday. It must have been a real treat to see Bruce Springstean again. God Bless you.
Cherry
Happy Birthday Scott as you start this new decade of your life!
Happy birthday Scott. a totally impressive decade and very inspiring.
Happy Birthday, Scott. You have a lot to reflect on the past 10 years. Life is always changing.
Happy 40th Scott,
Couldn’t think of a more fitting way to usher in your milestone birthday than . . .
http://www.gofundme.com/StandStrongScottie
Encouraging others to keep the Shelter Campaign growing.
Cheers from all of us . . . .
Happy Birthday Scott and Congratulations on Lindsey’s engagement. You are truly making a difference in people’s lives.
Love this post… Thanks for always being such a baller and inspiration. The f’ing man
Happy birthday Scott! Great seeing you at the Epic concert. .until we meet again ✌
Happy Birthday Scott! Great seeing you at the Epic concert☺
Until we meet again ✌
Scott!
First off, Happy Birthday! Strap on the seatbelt. The 40’s seem to whiz by at double time!
Second, Wonderful, reflective piece of writing!
Third, send our congratulations to your sister on her engagement!
And finally – glad all worked out to see the Dropkicks!
Best, Woody and Ingrid
Happy, Happy Birthday, Scott! What a remarkable decade!
You are such an INSPIRATION!!! God Love You!
God Bless You – Mary
The big 4-0 tomorrow! You have had quite the journey, and through it all, you are the same, rock solid human being you have always been. Inspiration to so many. We love ya, Scottie! 🙂
That’s not good! But better to have it break now while the weather is goofy and not the first few days of spring!!