February 21, 2022, was my 36th birthday. My first birthday in 7 years without Britt. Almost 9 months since her passing. I always knew I wanted to visit the accident site. For my own healing, visiting that dreaded magnolia was, unfortunately, necessary. With a few failed attempts, I told myself I would make the visit on my birthday. That was the goal. Well, my birthday fell on Presidents Day this year (school holiday ), which left me zero time to visit Brittany. Spencer ended up coming home early from work (thank you Jesus) and I knew this was my opportunity. So, I took my hot pink rose and a whole lotta faith and headed towards the tree. As I approached the backside of the magnolia, it felt like the entire world fell silent. I walked around to the front, knelt to the ground, and put my hand on the base of the tree. I cried. I prayed. It felt like I was releasing 9 months of pure and utter heartache. But the crazy thing was, I felt an overwhelming sense of calm. I could feel Britt’s presence. Nothing else in the world mattered during those moments. I know that was all God. His timing, His Grace, His Glory. I am forever thankful for that time and for the best 36th birthday gift I could have ever asked for.
The Magnolia Tree
